How dieting, weight suppression and even misuse of drugs like Ozempic can contribute to eating disorders

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How Dieting, Weight Suppression and Even Misuse of Drugs Like Ozempic Can Contribute to Eating Disorders

Weight Loss and Eating Disorders

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Up to 72 per cent of women and 61 per cent of men are dissatisfied with their weight or body image, according to a U.S. study. Globally, millions of people attempt to lose weight every year with the hope that weight loss will have positive effects on their body image, health and quality of life. However, these motivated individuals often struggle to maintain new diets or exercise regimens. The rise of medications such as semaglutides, like Ozempic or Wegovy, might be viewed as an appealing “quick fix” alternative to meet weight loss goals.

Eating Disorders and Weight Suppression

In eating disorders research, the state of maintaining weight loss is referred to as “weight suppression.” Weight suppression is typically defined as the difference between a person’s current weight and their highest lifetime weight (excluding pregnancy). Despite the belief that weight loss will improve body satisfaction, research suggests that in a sample of over 600 men and women, weight loss had no impact on women’s negative body image and was associated with increased body dissatisfaction in men. Importantly, being more weight suppressed has been associated with the onset of eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa.

Ozempic and Other Semaglutide Drugs

Semaglutide drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy are part of a class of drug called glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists (GLP-1As). These drugs work by mimicking the hormone GLP-1 to interact with neural pathways that signal satiety (fullness) and slow stomach emptying, leading to reduced food intake. Although GLP-1As are indicated to treat Type 2 diabetes, they are increasingly prescribed off-label or being illegally purchased without a prescription because of their observed effectiveness at inducing weight loss. However, research suggests that weight suppression is associated with reduced GLP-1 response, which may explain why effects of semaglutides diminish over time.

Risks of Dieting and Weight-Loss Drugs

The growing market for off-label weight loss drugs is concerning, because of the exacerbation of weight stigma and the serious health risks associated with unsupervised weight loss, including developing eating disorders. Researchers and health professionals are already raising the alarm about the use of GLP-1As in children and adolescents, due to concerns about their possible impact on growth and development. Moreover, popular weight-loss methods, whether they involve pills or “crash diets,” often mimic symptoms of eating disorders.

Conclusion

Dieting, weight suppression and even misuse of drugs like Ozempic can contribute to eating disorders. It is essential to recognize the risks associated with these behaviors and seek professional help if struggling with disordered eating or body image concerns. A healthy and sustainable approach to weight management is crucial for overall well-being.

FAQs

Q: What is weight suppression?
A: Weight suppression is the state of maintaining weight loss, typically defined as the difference between a person’s current weight and their highest lifetime weight (excluding pregnancy).

Q: What are the risks of dieting and weight-loss drugs?
A: The risks include exacerbation of weight stigma, serious health risks associated with unsupervised weight loss, including developing eating disorders, and potential impact on growth and development in children and adolescents.

Q: Can dieting and weight-loss drugs lead to eating disorders?
A: Yes, dieting and weight-loss drugs can contribute to eating disorders, particularly in individuals who are already showing signs of disordered eating or body image concerns.

Q: What is the best approach to weight management?
A: A healthy and sustainable approach to weight management is crucial for overall well-being. This may involve seeking professional help, practicing mindful eating, and focusing on overall health rather than weight loss.