In recent years, GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus have gained significant attention for their weight loss benefits. However, as with many popular weight loss trends, concerns about long-term effectiveness, potential side effects, and costs are rising. While some users experience initial success, a recent study found that many participants regained up to two-thirds of the weight they lost within a year of stopping the shots.
Dr. Whit Roberts, D.C. from Health Utah, warns that the issue extends beyond the regained weight. He emphasizes both the financial burden and potential health risks of relying on these drugs.
The Cost of Weight Loss Medication
While GLP-1 agonists have shown effectiveness in helping people shed pounds, the cost of long-term use is considerable—possibly amounting to thousands of dollars annually. Alongside the financial implications, the health risks are a growing concern, especially given the drug’s relative newness for non-diabetic users.
“The long-term side effects of these drugs remain unclear, as they’ve been primarily studied in diabetic patients,” says Dr. Roberts. Research highlights common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea. More serious risks, though rarer, include thyroid cancer, gallbladder issues, kidney damage, and mental health symptoms like anxiety and fatigue.
Dr. Roberts, who has worked with obese patients for three decades, also notes the persistence of certain side effects even after patients stop using the drugs. “I’ve seen lingering effects like nausea, bloating, and fatigue long after people discontinue the medication,” he adds. “One of the most alarming side effects is an increase in visceral fat—fat that surrounds vital organs, which poses a significant risk for heart disease, diabetes, and fatty liver disease.”
A Healthier, Sustainable Approach
Dr. Roberts advocates for a more holistic approach to weight loss—one that addresses the root causes of weight gain rather than relying on medications. He stresses that weight gain is often a symptom of deeper, chronic health issues that cannot be fixed by a quick-fix drug.
“The body has the capacity to heal and restore itself if it’s given the right nutrients and therapeutic support,” he explains. “The goal should be to identify and treat the underlying causes of stubborn weight.”
Health Utah’s Personalized Approach
At Health Utah, the focus is on thorough evaluation and personalized care. Dr. Roberts explains that a “one-size-fits-all” approach is rarely effective.
Health Utah begins with a detailed survey designed to uncover possible health issues that could be contributing to weight gain. Following that, clients undergo a body scan that provides a wealth of physiological data—information that is then used to create a comprehensive health report.
“This evaluation often reveals more about a person’s health than any other consultation they’ve had,” Dr. Roberts says.
Instead of promoting fad diets or extreme restrictions, Health Utah’s approach involves creating customized programs that focus on nourishing the body with foods that support organ function and promote overall well-being. In some cases, therapies like food desensitization or hypnotherapy may be recommended.
“We don’t focus on calorie counting or cutting out food groups,” Dr. Roberts explains. “The goal is to feed your body in a way that supports healing and balance.”
Getting Started with Health Utah
To help those interested in exploring alternatives to Ozempic and other weight loss medications, Health Utah is offering a special promotion. For just $59, individuals can receive a comprehensive evaluation that includes the survey, body scan, 17-page health report, and a personalized consultation. There is no obligation to continue after the initial visit, making it a low-risk opportunity for those seeking a sustainable, individualized weight loss plan.
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