We all have heard the hype around these magic weight management medications and their outstanding weight loss results. A recent UCLA research study may unfold more information behind the miraculous effects of these medications. Read along!
To start, let's briefly go over the medications. They belong to the "GLP-1 agonist" family and are used for Diabetes as well as weight management. In simple words, they work by increasing insulin secretion and regulating appetite and caloric intake respectively. They also offer cardiovascular protection.
Who's a good candidate for weight management treatment with these agents? Adults with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m2) or who are overweight (BMI ≥27 kg/m2) in the presence of at least 1 weight-related comorbid condition (e.g. hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, or obstructive sleep apnea). They are indicated in combination with a reduced caloric diet and increased physical activity.
Now, what is brown fat and what does it do? Unlike white fat, which typically accumulates around the belly, hips and thighs and its job is to store energy, brown fat burns energy and generates heat. It has been speculated that activating brown fat is useful in treating obesity and metabolic conditions.
In a UCLA study, a first-ever map of the nerves that activate brown fat was identified. This discovery can help advance the weight management treatments even further including how to stimulate brown fat tissues selectively without affecting other organs that are connected to the network of nerves like the heart and stomach.
What does this information have to do with Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro?! Based on this UCLA study, there is evidence which suggests that in addition to increasing insulin secretion and regulating appetite, such medications may also increase brown fat activity helping to burn energy and facilitate weight loss.
There you have it: brown fat activity and how Ozempic, Wegovy & Mounjaro work.
Liked what you read and have more questions about weight loss?! We'd suggest giving the following blog posts a read in addition to this one:
Happy reading!
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