Copenhagen, Denmark – Weight-loss drugs that help curb appetite and reduce food cravings can lead to significant weight loss. However, studies show that many users stop taking the medication within a year due to reasons such as cost and side effects. Unfortunately, once people stop the medication, the weight they had lost tends to come back, primarily as fat rather than muscle, making them less metabolically healthy than before.
A recent long-term study conducted in Denmark suggests that incorporating exercise into one’s routine after stopping weight-loss medication can help prevent unhealthy weight regain. Participants who exercised while using the weight-loss drug were able to maintain more of their weight loss after quitting, compared to those who did not exercise. This also helped them maintain more muscle mass.
Professor Signe Sørensen Torekov of the University of Copenhagen highlighted the importance of exercise in weight management, emphasizing that it plays a crucial role in preserving a healthy weight even after discontinuing medication. The study involved individuals who had obesity but no other major health issues and underwent an intense low-calorie diet to kickstart weight loss.
The participants were then divided into groups, with some taking a weight-loss drug called Saxenda while others engaged in a supervised exercise program in addition to taking the drug. Those who combined the drug with exercise lost more weight and maintained a healthier body composition compared to those who only took the medication.
After a year of observation, it was evident that individuals who exercised regularly were able to prevent significant weight regain after stopping the drug. Those who did not exercise had a higher percentage of body fat, indicating less muscle preservation. The study suggests that incorporating just two hours of vigorous exercise per week can help prevent weight regain.
Experts in the field, such as diabetes specialist Daniel Drucker and endocrinologist Robert Kushner, acknowledge the significance of exercise in maintaining weight loss. Although the study had limitations, such as the specific population studied and the supervised exercise routine, it provides valuable insights into the role of exercise in long-term weight management.
In conclusion, the research underscores the importance of incorporating regular exercise into weight-loss strategies to achieve sustainable results. It emphasizes the need for individuals to continue physical activity even after discontinuing weight-loss medication to prevent unhealthy weight regain and preserve muscle mass.