Can Weight Loss with Semaglutide Reverse Diabetes?

Type 2 Diabetes is a complex condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide, and it often goes hand in hand with obesity. At Dr. Ruthie Harper’s practice in Austin, TX we understand that the battle against Type 2 Diabetes can be challenging. But the good news is that it’s a battle that can be won!

In this article, Dr. Harper explains the science behind Type 2 Diabetes, including the role of weight and obesity, and explores how innovative medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Semaglutide can play a pivotal role in achieving both weight loss and diabetes reversal.

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated levels of blood sugar (glucose). This condition occurs when the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates glucose uptake by cells.

As a result, blood sugar remains high, leading to various health complications if left unmanaged. If left uncontrolled, Type 2 Diabetes can have widespread and severe consequences on various organs and systems within the body.

Type 2 Diabetes primarily causes organ damage and health problems through chronic high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia). Prolonged hyperglycemia harms blood vessels and nerves throughout the body, impairing their function and integrity. This damage disrupts the normal flow of oxygen and nutrients to organs and tissues, leading to the complications listed above.

Note: It’s important to distinguish between Type 2 Diabetes and Type 1 Diabetes. Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Type 1 typically occurs in childhood. Type 2 Diabetes, on the other hand, typically develops later in life and is closely linked to lifestyle factors, including weight and diet.

Complications of Type 2 Diabetes

People with Type 2 Diabetes are at an increased risk of heart disease, including coronary artery disease, heart attacks, and congestive heart failure. High blood sugar levels contribute to the development of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), narrowing blood vessels and increasing the risk of cardiovascular events.

Persistent high blood sugar levels can also damage the kidneys over time, leading to a condition called diabetic nephropathy. This condition affects the kidneys’ ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood, potentially progressing to kidney failure.

Uncontrolled Type 2 Diabetes can cause damage to the blood vessels in the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy. This condition is a leading cause of vision loss and blindness in adults. Elevated blood sugar levels weaken the immune system’s ability to fight infections, making individuals with Type 2 Diabetes more vulnerable to illnesses like urinary tract infections and skin infections.

Additionally, elevated blood sugar levels can injure nerves throughout the body, often affecting the extremities. Peripheral neuropathy can result in symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and pain, particularly in the hands and feet. Nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation can increase the risk of foot injuries and infections in individuals with Type 2 Diabetes. Left untreated, these ulcers can lead to amputations.

High blood sugar levels can impair the body’s immune response, making individuals more susceptible to skin infections and slow wound healing. And people with Type 2 Diabetes are more prone to gum disease (periodontal disease), which can lead to tooth loss if not properly managed.

Some studies also suggest a link between Type 2 Diabetes and sensorineural hearing loss, particularly in older adults. Men with Type 2 Diabetes may experience erectile dysfunction (impotence) due to damage to blood vessels and nerves. While women with uncontrolled Type 2 Diabetes may face fertility challenges, including irregular menstrual cycles.

What Causes Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 Diabetes is a multifactorial and complex metabolic disorder with a range of contributing factors. While genetics play a role, lifestyle factors and obesity are the predominant culprits in the development of Type 2 Diabetes.

Genetics can influence an individual’s susceptibility to Type 2 Diabetes. Specific genes, such as TCF7L2, are associated with a higher risk of Type 2 Diabetes, but genetics alone are not usually the sole cause.

Consuming a diet high in refined sugars, saturated fats, and processed foods is a significant contributor to Type 2 Diabetes. Such dietary choices can lead to weight gain and insulin resistance. A lack of physical activity or a sedentary lifestyle can also increase the risk of Type 2 Diabetes. Regular exercise helps control weight and improves insulin sensitivity.

However, obesity is one of the biggest risk factors for Type 2 Diabetes. Excess body fat, particularly abdominal fat, leads to insulin resistance and an increased demand for insulin. Insulin resistance occurs when the body’s cells become less responsive to the effects of insulin. To compensate, the pancreas produces more insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. This resistance is often associated with obesity, particularly in the abdominal area.

The Role of Weight & Obesity in Type 2 Diabetes

Obesity is a significant risk factor for Type 2 Diabetes. Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, can lead to insulin resistance. As fat cells release more fatty acids into the bloodstream, they interfere with insulin’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels effectively. he Pervasive Influence of Weight and Obesity on Type 2 Diabetes

Weight and obesity are critical factors in the development and progression of Type 2 Diabetes. At the heart of the connection between obesity and Type 2 Diabetes lies insulin resistance. This phenomenon occurs when the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. In individuals with excess body weight, particularly abdominal obesity, fat cells release increased amounts of fatty acids into the bloodstream. These fatty acids interfere with insulin’s ability to facilitate glucose uptake by cells, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels.

Obesity is also characterized by an accumulation of adipose tissue, or fat cells. Adipose tissue is not merely a passive storage depot for excess energy; it’s a dynamic organ that secretes various molecules, including inflammatory cytokines. Inflammation plays a significant role in the development of insulin resistance. As adipose tissue expands in obesity, it becomes more inflamed, contributing to systemic inflammation and insulin resistance.

Obesity also often leads to abnormal lipid profiles, characterized by high levels of triglycerides and low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. This dyslipidemia further compounds the risk of insulin resistance and Type 2 Diabetes. Elevated triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol are components of the metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and Type 2 Diabetes.

Obesity can also alter the levels of various hormones involved in glucose regulation, such as adiponectin and leptin. These hormonal changes can further exacerbate insulin resistance and contribute to the development of Type 2 Diabetes.

How Weight Loss Can Help Reverse Type 2 Diabetes

The good news is that losing weight, even a modest amount, can have a profound impact on Type 2 Diabetes management and even lead to its reversal. Weight loss improves insulin sensitivity, allows cells to use glucose more effectively, and lowers blood sugar levels.

In the journey towards Type 2 Diabetes reversal, medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Semaglutide have emerged as powerful tools. These medications belong to a class called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which not only lower blood sugar but also promote weight loss by reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness. Their dual action makes them valuable options for individuals with Type 2 Diabetes and obesity.

New research presented by University of Alabama at Birmingham at the end of 2022 researchers showed that a 2.4mg dose of the obesity drug semaglutide can reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes by an astounding 60 percent.

Losing Weight with Semaglutide

According to 2018 data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, just under half of adults in America tried to lose weight in 12 months before the study. But, according to CDC data, the obesity rate in that same year rose to a record 42.4 percent.

And, according to the U of A research study, obesity is known to increase the risk of Type 2 Diabetes at least six-fold.

In that clinical study, 1,961 overweight or obese participants received an injection of 2.4mg of semaglutide (the ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy) or a placebo weekly for 68 weeks.  The patients who received semaglutide saw a reduction in the future risk of diabetes by over 60 percent.

That study concluded: “Given the rising rates of obesity and diabetes, semaglutide could be used effectively to reduce the burden of these chronic diseases” including Type 2 Diabetes.

Reverse Type 2 Diabetes | Semaglutide Weight Loss | Austin, TX

Managing Type 2 Diabetes through lifestyle modifications, medication, regular monitoring, and especially weight loss is essential to minimize the risk of complications and preserve overall health.

Dr. Ruthie Harper, MD, in Austin, TX, is dedicated to helping individuals with Type 2 Diabetes regain control of their health. Through personalized approaches, including lifestyle modifications, comprehensive medical guidance, and semaglutide weight loss medication when indicated she is committed to helping you achieve your weight loss and diabetes reversal goals.

Don’t let Type 2 Diabetes hold you back, compromise your health, and even shorten your life expectancy. Dr. Ruthie Harper, MD in Auston, TX will partner with you on the path to weight loss,  better health and a brighter future.

Help Reversing Type 2 Diabetes |  Austin, TX: 512.343.9355

 
Resources:
https://www.uab.edu/news/research/item/13156-transformational-semaglutide-can-cut-type-2-diabetes-risk-by-more-than-half
https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/adult.html

The “Miracle” Ingredient in Ozempic: Semaglutide

Semaglutide is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It is primarily used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, there have been many clinical trials and studies exploring its potential for weight management.

Today, medications that contain semaglutide – including Ozempic and Wegovy – are helping millions of people lose weight and achieve a healthier body mass. In this article, weight loss expert Dr. Ruthie Harper in Austin, TX explains how semaglutide works to facilitate weight loss in healthy men and women.

How Semaglutide Can Help with Weight Loss

Semaglutide Suppresses Excess Appetite

Semaglutide can help reduce appetite that is out of balance with food intake needs, leading to appropriate food intake, which may result in weight loss. However, adequate food and protein intake must be balanced to maintain muscle- the metabolically active tissue that maintains metabolism. We provide specific recommendations for each patient to make sure these criteria are met.

Semaglutide Delays Gastric Emptying

Semaglutide slows down the emptying of the stomach, promoting a feeling of fullness and reducing the urge to eat more frequently than is healthy.

Improved Insulin Sensitivity: By improving insulin sensitivity, semaglutide may help with better blood sugar control and potentially reduce insulin resistance, which can contribute to weight loss.

Semaglutide Reduces Cravings

Some people may experience a reduction in cravings for high-calorie and unhealthy foods.

Potential Risks & Side Effects of Semaglutide

Gastrointestinal Side Effects of Semaglutide

Semaglutide can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in some individuals, especially when starting the treatment. These side effects may lead to inappropriately reduced appetite, too little food intake and can also be uncomfortable for some people.

Hypoglycemia & Semaglutide

While the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is relatively low when semaglutide is used for weight management, it is still possible, especially if combined with other diabetes medications or insulin.

Pancreatitis & Semaglutide

In rare cases, GLP-1 receptor agonists, including semaglutide, have been associated with pancreatitis, a potentially serious inflammation of the pancreas.

Gallbladder Problems & Semaglutide

There have been reports of gallbladder-related issues in individuals using GLP-1 receptor agonists especially if weight loss is too rapid or severe.

Semaglutide is Not a Magic Solution

Although semaglutide can be extremely effective for weight loss, it is not a magic solution. Sustainable weight loss requires a combination of medication, diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.

Semaglutide can be a helpful tool, but it should be used in conjunction with a comprehensive weight loss plan. And it is essential to remember that any medication for weight loss should be prescribed and monitored by a qualified physician like Dr. Ruthie Harper in Austin, TX.

Get Semaglutide in Austin, TX

Semaglutide or any other weight loss medication should not be used as a standalone solution for weight loss. It should be combined with lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and behavior modification to achieve sustainable and healthy weight loss.

If you are ready to get rid of the excess weight – and are eager get to a healthy weight that reduces your risk of medical conditions and helps you feel confident and attractive – schedule a weight loss consultation with Dr. Ruthie Harper in Austin, TX today.

Semaglutide | Austin, TX: (512) 343-9355

The press surrounding the ‘miracle’ weight loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy have put them on everybody’s radar. Suddenly, almost every celebrity on the red carpet is slim and trim – and everyday people are rushing to their doctors to get a prescription for this new ‘wonder drug.’

Semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic or Wegovy) is a medication originally used to treat Type 2 Diabetes and is now FDA approved for weight loss in obese individuals. Its popularity is based on how effective it is in rapidly reducing body weight and improving metabolic parameters.

However, like anything in life, there are no ‘magic’ cures. Like any medication, semaglutide can have side effects. And one such side effect to Ozempic and Wegovy use is loss of muscle mass.

In this article Austin, TX integrative medicine doctor and weight loss expert Dr. Ruthie Harper, explains how to use Ozempic and Wegovy (semaglutide) safely – to ensure you do not experience dangerous loss of muscle mass.

How Ozempic & Wegovy Cause Loss of Muscle Mass

Semaglutide is a medication that works by reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness. It is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that mimics the effects of the hormone GLP-1, which is naturally produced by the body in response to food. GLP-1 is involved in regulating glucose metabolism, appetite, and energy expenditure.

While semaglutide has been shown to be effective in promoting weight loss, it can also have side effects, including loss of muscle mass. This is because semaglutide can reduce energy intake too much or too quickly, which can lead to a decrease in muscle protein synthesis. In addition, semaglutide can decrease insulin levels too much, which can also contribute to muscle loss.

The Dangers of Ozempic or Wegovy Loss of Muscle Mass

Muscle mass is important for overall health and physical function. It plays a crucial role in metabolic health, bone density, and strength. Loss of muscle mass can lead to a variety of health problems, including decreased metabolic rate critical for the ability to consume normal amounts of food after finishing your weight loss program.

Muscle mass is also important for strength, mobility, and for prevention of falls, fractures, and other injuries.

Maintaining Muscle Mass on Ozempic or Wegovy

To prevent loss of muscle mass when using Ozempic or Wegovy, it is important to have a DEXA scan prior to using semaglutide. It is also essential to work with a weight loss doctor like Ruthie Harper, MD who can calculate and recommend adequate amounts of protein and other macronutrients while using this drug.

DEXA stands for Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. It is a medical imaging technique that uses X-rays to measure bone density, body composition, and muscle mass. A DEXA scan is a simple and painless procedure that can provide valuable information about an individual’s body composition and overall health, including their muscle mass and bone density.

By monitoring muscle mass with DEXA scans, your physician can adjust treatment as needed to prevent muscle loss and promote overall health.

Preventing Muscle Mass Loss on Ozempic or Wegovy

In addition to monitoring muscle mass, there are other strategies that can be used to prevent muscle loss with semaglutide. These include:
1. Resistance training: Resistance training is a form of exercise that involves using weights or resistance bands to strengthen and build muscle. It is important to engage in regular resistance training to maintain muscle mass and prevent muscle loss while using semaglutide.

2. Protein intake: Protein is essential for muscle growth and maintenance. It is important to consume adequate amounts of protein to support muscle health. The amount of protein needed varies depending on an individual’s age, weight, and activity level and should be specifically calculated by your physician.

3. Adequate caloric intake: While semaglutide works by reducing appetite, it is important to consume enough calories to support muscle health. You physician can work with you to develop a nutrition plan that supports muscle health while promoting weight loss.

4. Vitamin D and calcium intake: Vitamin D and calcium are important for bone health and muscle function. It is important to measure levels of these important nutrients and consume adequate amounts of these nutrients to support overall health.

Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy) Weight Loss Doctor | Austin, TX

While semaglutide is an effective medication for weight loss, it can have undesirable and serious side effects, including loss of muscle mass. To prevent muscle loss, it is important to have ongoing DEXA scans to monitor muscle mass and adjust your weight loss treatment plan as needed.

In addition, integrative medicine doctor and weight loss expert Dr. Ruthie Harper, MD will work with each individual patient to put together a comprehensive treatment plan that ensures muscle mass is maintained. This may include engaging in regular resistance training, consuming adequate protein and calories, and consuming adequate amounts of vitamin D and calcium.

By taking a comprehensive approach to health and wellness, Dr. Ruthie Harper, MD in Austin, TX works with each individual patient to help them achieve their weight loss goals while maintaining muscle mass and promoting overall health.

Ozempic / Wegovy Weight Loss Doctor | Austin, TX: (512) 343-9355

As women enter menopause, they often experience a shift in their metabolism and may notice weight gain that seems to be resistant to traditional weight loss methods. While there are many factors that contribute to weight gain during menopause, two key measurements may provide insight into an individual’s risk and potential interventions: HbA1c and fasting insulin.

How Blood Sugar is Measured

HbA1c, or glycated hemoglobin, is a measure of long-term blood sugar control. It reflects the average level of glucose in the blood over the past 3 months and is typically used to monitor diabetes. However, even in individuals without diabetes, higher levels of HbA1c are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and other chronic health conditions. This is because high blood sugar levels over time can lead to damage in blood vessels and other tissues through a process call glycation.

Fasting insulin is a measure of the hormone insulin in the blood after an overnight fast. Insulin is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels, and higher levels of insulin are associated with insulin resistance, a condition in which cells become less responsive to insulin’s effects. Insulin resistance is a precursor to type 2 diabetes and is also associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Both HbA1c and fasting insulin are markers of metabolic health, and their levels can be impacted by a variety of factors, including diet, exercise, and genetics. By monitoring these markers, individuals and their integrative physician can gain insight into their metabolic health and make targeted interventions to prevent weight gain and promote overall health.

Nutrition, Menopause & Weight Gain

One key intervention for individuals with elevated HbA1c or fasting insulin is dietary changes. Specifically, reducing the intake of refined carbohydrates and added sugars has been shown to improve blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity. This is because these types of carbohydrates are quickly digested and absorbed, leading to a rapid spike in blood sugar and subsequent release of insulin. Over time, this can lead to insulin resistance and elevated HbA1c.

Instead, individuals should focus on consuming more nutrient-dense carbohydrates, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, which are digested more slowly and have a lower impact on blood sugar. Consuming a balanced diet that includes protein, healthy fats, and fiber can also help to regulate blood sugar and insulin levels.

Activity, Menopause & Weight Gain

In addition to dietary changes, physical activity is also an important intervention for individuals with elevated HbA1c or fasting insulin. Exercise helps to improve insulin sensitivity, allowing cells to more effectively take up glucose from the blood. It also promotes weight loss and overall health, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

While any type of physical activity can be beneficial, strength training has been shown to be particularly effective for improving insulin sensitivity. This is because strength training builds muscle mass, which is more metabolically active than fat tissue and therefore requires more energy (i.e., glucose) to maintain. Over time, this can lead to improved insulin sensitivity and better blood sugar control.

Supplements for Menopause Weight Gain

Finally, supplementation may be necessary for individuals with severely elevated HbA1c or fasting insulin levels. Nutrients that improve insulin function and blood sugar control include chromium, magnesium, alpha-lipoic acid, cinnamon and goat’s rue.  Combinations of these nutrients have been shown to improve insulin function and blood sugar control in conjunction with lifestyle interventions, dietary changes and physical activity.

Menopause Weight Gain Doctor | Austin

In conclusion, HbA1c and fasting insulin are two key measures of metabolic health that can provide valuable insight into an individual’s risk of weight gain after menopause. By monitoring these markers and making targeted interventions, individuals can monitor the effect that each of these above interventions have on their metabolic health preventing weight gain and chronic disease from developing post-menopausally.

Menopause Weight Gain Doctor | Austin: (512) 343-9355