I’m Dr. Andrea Christian Parks, an OBGYN and weight loss coach for Women of Faith. Today, we’re diving into a hot topic: GLP-1 medications for weight loss. Can they fit into a godly weight loss plan? Let’s find out!

As Christians, we want to make sure we’re honoring God with our bodies, right? So, let’s break down the top five questions I keep hearing about these meds. Buckle up, folks – we’re about to get real!

How Do GLP-1 Medications Work?

Alright, let’s start with the basics. GLP-1 meds are pretty cool – they work like a hormone your body naturally makes after eating. Here’s what they do:

1. 1. Decrease your appetite
   2. Make you feel full faster
   3. Reduce those pesky food cravings
   4. Slow down how quickly food moves through your system

It’s like having a little helper that reminds you when you’ve had enough to eat. Originally, these meds were created for diabetes, but doctors noticed they also helped with weight loss. Neat, huh?

How Much Weight Can I Lose with GLP-1 Medications?

Now, don’t get too excited, but also don’t lose hope!

Here’s the scoop:
If you just take the medication and don’t change anything else, you might lose about 5% of your body weight. That’s what we doctors call “significant” weight loss. It might be enough to improve some health issues, like prediabetes.

But if you’re hoping for more, listen up! When people combine GLP-1 meds with lifestyle changes, they can often lose up to 15% of their body weight. I have a client who through medication AND coaching lost nearly 100 pounds so far! The key is doing the mental work too – dealing with emotional eating, stress, and changing your relationship with food…

Are GLP-1 Medications Safe?

Great question! Overall, GLP-1 medications are considered safe for most people. But like any medication, they can have side effects. The most common ones are:

• • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

These usually aren’t serious and often go away as your body gets used to the medication. Your doctor will typically start you on a low dose and slowly increase it to help minimize these effects.
However, there are a few more serious risks to be aware of:

• • Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
  • Gallbladder problems

These are rare – less than 0.2% of people experience these complications. But that’s why it’s so important to work with your doctor who knows your full medical history.

How Long Do I Need to Take GLP-1 Medications?

Here’s where it gets real, folks. Many doctors now view obesity as a chronic condition, like diabetes or high blood pressure. That means you might need to take these medications long-term – possibly even for life – to maintain the weight loss.

I know that might sound daunting, but think of it this way: if you had diabetes, you wouldn’t feel bad about taking insulin, right? It’s the same principle here. We’re using the tools God has given us through medical science to care for our bodies.

That said, some people can eventually reduce their dose. But here’s the truth: most people so far aren’t keeping the weight off without staying on the medication. It’s also worth noting that these meds can be pretty expensive, so that’s something to consider if you’re thinking long-term use.

Who Qualifies for GLP-1 Medications?

Wondering if you might qualify? Here’s the deal:

1. 1. If your Body Mass Index (BMI) is over 30, you’ll likely qualify.
   2. If your BMI is between 27 and 30 AND you have a weight-related health condition (like high blood pressure or pre-diabetes), you might also qualify.

Not sure what your BMI is? No worries! You can easily find BMI calculators online.

Where Can I Get a Prescription for GLP-1 Medications?

If you’re thinking about trying GLP-1 medications, here’s my advice: talk to your doctor. Yes, there are online services that can prescribe these meds, but I really believe it’s best to work with a physician who knows your full medical history.

Your doctor can:

1. 1. Check if these meds are safe for you
   2. Monitor your progress
   3. Help you deal with any side effects
   4. Adjust your dose as needed

Wrapping It Up…

Whew! We’ve covered a lot, haven’t we? Here’s the bottom line: GLP-1 medications can be a helpful tool in your weight loss journey, but they’re not a magic solution. As Christians, we need to remember that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and how we care for them matters.

If you’re considering GLP-1 medications, pray about it. Talk to your doctor. And remember, these meds work best when combined with lifestyle changes that honor God – eating mindfully, exercising regularly, and dealing with the emotional and spiritual aspects of overeating.

Remember, your worth isn’t defined by the number on the scale. You are fearfully and wonderfully made, and God loves you just as you are. But if you feel called to improve your health, know that it’s okay to use the tools available to you – including medication – as long as you’re doing it with a Spirit-led heart and motivation.

Let’s keep seeking God’s wisdom in all areas of our lives – including our health journeys! All glory be to God in your efforts to lose weight and honor Him with your body.

Ready to take the next step in your menopausal health journey? Download my eBook: “Nourished Spirit: Your Faith-Filled Guide to Weight Loss“

Remember, you’re fearfully and wonderfully made, hot flashes, weight fluctuations, and all!

For more guidance on your Christian approach to weight loss, book a consultation with me.

Or take time to binge-watch my teachings on my YouTube channel.