How Did We Get Here? The Modern Weight Epidemic
Modern life is filled with conveniences that have changed the way we eat and live. According to Dr. Terri, processed foods, sugary snacks, and larger portion sizes are just a few of the culprits that make weight loss harder than ever. In the 1950s, obesity was the exception, not the norm. But fast forward to today, and nearly every grocery aisle and fast-food menu is packed with “food-like substances” rather than real, nourishing food. Dr. Terri shared a personal story from her childhood about this shift, saying: “We’d go to the store, and the bakery would pipe out these delicious sugary smells. So there’s all of these subtle things that are coming at us that make us want to get that dopamine hit that sugar gives us.”
These clever marketing tactics have changed our relationship with food, making it easier to consume high-calorie, low-nutrient items and harder to maintain a balanced diet. Dr. Terri summed the problem perfectly by reciting one of the many weight loss quotes she has heard saying “we’re overfed, but undernourished.”
Insulin Resistance: A Silent Obstacle
One hidden piece of the weight loss puzzle is insulin resistance. When we eat, our bodies release insulin to process the glucose in our blood. Over time, a diet high in sugar and refined carbs can make our bodies less sensitive to insulin, resulting in a condition known as insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is a primary driver of weight gain because it causes excess glucose to be stored as fat—often in the liver and around the abdomen.
Dr. Terri explains: “Your body becomes resistant to insulin, so all that extra glucose gets stored in the liver, and it’s called fatty liver, which is a big, big problem.” Unfortunately, many people don’t realize they’re dealing with insulin resistance until they struggle with weight gain, fatigue, and even type 2 diabetes.
Weight Loss Medication: The Role of GLP-1 Agonists
For some, medications like GLP-1 receptor agonists can help break the cycle of insulin resistance and support weight loss efforts. Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro have proven effective for weight loss by suppressing appetite and increasing insulin sensitivity. Dr. Terri refers to these medications as a “game-changer” for patients in her clinics, noting their effectiveness in helping patients feel full sooner and eat less.
GLP-1 medications, however, are not magic pills. They work best when combined with lifestyle changes. Dr. Terri emphasizes that they are designed to be temporary aids: “They’re meant to be a stopgap solution, to help you lose the weight, but you need to implement healthier habits to keep it off.” While on medication, it’s crucial to incorporate a weight loss diet and exercise routine that will help maintain progress after the medication is discontinued.
Avoiding Rebound Weight Gain
One common challenge with weight loss medication is the risk of rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped. According to Dr. Terri, many people fall into the trap of relying solely on the medication without changing their diet or lifestyle. Once the medication is stopped, they return to old habits and the weight creeps back. She uses a lighthearted example to illustrate this, joking with a patient: “You might need an elbow brace—to keep that fork from reaching your mouth!”
So, what’s the solution? Focus on sustainable lifestyle changes. Avoid fad diets or extreme restrictions that are hard to maintain. Instead, make small, incremental changes that add up over time. Replace sugary drinks with water, incorporate more weight loss foods like lean protein and leafy greens, and gradually increase your physical activity. Dr. Terri stresses the importance of “starting low, going slow”—small steps are easier to sustain and can lead to long-term success.
Weight Loss Foods and Weight Loss Exercise: Your Tools for Success
While medications and hormone balance can provide a foundation, healthy foods and regular exercise are essential pieces of the weight loss puzzle. Dr. Terri recommends incorporating a variety of weight loss foods that are high in nutrients and low in empty calories. Foods like lean meats, fish, whole grains, and leafy greens provide the body with the fuel it needs to function optimally without spiking insulin levels. Avoiding processed snacks and sugary drinks can also help maintain stable energy and prevent cravings.
When it comes to weight loss exercise, it’s important to find activities that you enjoy and can stick with long-term. Mix up your routine to keep things interesting—try incorporating high-intensity interval training (HIIT), strength training, and even something as simple as walking. Dr. Terri suggests varying your workouts to “keep the body guessing,” which helps prevent the body from adapting and stalling progress.
Piecing Together Your Weight Loss Puzzle
The journey to sustainable weight loss isn’t about quick fixes or drastic changes. It’s about putting together the pieces of hormones, habits, and practical strategies to create a lifestyle that supports your goals. By understanding the role of insulin resistance, incorporating weight loss medications when appropriate, and making gradual lifestyle changes, you can unlock a path to health that’s achievable and lasting.
If weight loss feels like an unsolvable puzzle, consider reaching out to EVEXIAS HEALTH SOLUTIONS for personalized support. Their holistic approach to wellness combines hormone optimization, nutritional guidance, and medical expertise to help you overcome weight loss challenges for good.
