The demand for effective weight loss solutions has never been higher.
Nearly half of Americans will be obese by 2030; with obesity rates soaring and associated health issues such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and joint problems on the rise, the need for safe, effective weight management strategies is critical.
With a comprehensive holistic and patient-centered approach, doctors of chiropractic are uniquely positioned to meet this demand by offering natural weight loss solutions that align with their philosophy of care — specifically, a natural alternative to the weight-loss drug Ozempic (semaglutide, also the active ingredient in Wegovy and Rybelsus).
Patient success stories
Several patients have experienced significant weight loss and improved health outcomes with the use of natural glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). For instance, a patient who had struggled with weight loss via conventional methods like Weight Watchers and the ketogenic diet successfully lost over 30 pounds with a natural GLP-1 and maintained the weight loss for over a year. This example showcases the effectiveness and safety of a natural GLP-1 product or system in achieving sustainable weight management.
Treat the cause of pain
Some very powerful statistics bear out the idea that optimizing body weight is important for health, including musculoskeletal structural health.1
- The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 31% of obese adults suffer from arthritis, compared to only 16% of the rest of the population.
- Many musculoskeletal diseases develop simply because joints and bones are forced to carry a heavier load.2
- Obese patients are at greater risk for neck, shoulder and wrist pain than those of a healthy weight.3,4
- Obesity is so strongly correlated with osteoarthritis (OA) that the American College of Rheumatology recommends weight loss and exercise as a part of OA treatment.5
- Omega-3 to omega-6 ratios are of particular concern to DCs because of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory effects.6
I have been successfully using natural approaches to weight management in my clinical practice, which incorporate food sensitivity testing and the use of natural GLP-1-mimicking approaches. What follows is my educational approach I share with my patients as we look to lessen inflammation, decrease discomfort and get them to maximal mobility in both their potential and actualized activity level, which is much easier at a leaner body mass.
Understand GLP-1’s role in weight management
GLP-1 is a hormone that regulates appetite and insulin production. By activating brown adipose tissue (BAT), GLP-1 increases energy expenditure and promotes fat burning. Additionally, it stimulates hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) to break down stored fats in white adipose tissue (WAT), converting them into usable energy. This dual action not only helps reduce body fat but also supports metabolic health.
Synthetic GLP-1 receptor agonists, like Ozempic, have been shown to be effective in weight management by mimicking the body’s natural GLP-1, promoting satiety, reducing hunger and enhancing insulin sensitivity. However, these medications come with side effects and are not suitable for everyone. This has led to a growing interest in natural alternatives that can provide similar benefits without the drawbacks.
Compare natural GLP-1 with other weight loss methods
Natural GLP-1 offers an alternative to synthetic GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic. While Ozempic has been associated with gastrointestinal issues and potential long-term risks, natural GLP-1 provides similar benefits with fewer adverse effects. This makes it a safer option for long-term weight management.
Point to scientific research and evidence
Research indicates that natural GLP-1 products can effectively aid in weight management. Studies show that GLP-1 mimetics enhance satiety and reduce caloric intake, leading to significant weight loss. Graphs and charts from clinical trials demonstrate the consistent weight reduction in participants using these products compared to placebos.
Pair products with nutritional and exercise guidance
When taking natural GLP-1 products, patients are advised to follow a balanced diet rich in protein and healthy fats, and low in refined sugars. Incorporating regular physical activity, such as aerobic exercises and strength training, can further enhance weight loss and improve spinal health. Specific routines like walking, swimming and resistance exercises are highly recommended.
The importance of weight loss for spinal health
Role of DCs in holistic health
DCs focus on treating the whole body, addressing not just the symptoms but the underlying causes of health issues. Integrating weight management into chiropractic care involves combining spinal adjustments with nutritional counseling and lifestyle modifications. This holistic approach ensures patients receive comprehensive care that supports overall health and well-being.
DCs understand the critical connection between weight and spinal health. Excess weight can lead to misalignment of the spine, increased pressure on vertebral discs and chronic pain conditions. By helping patients achieve and maintain a healthy weight, DCs can address the root causes of many spinal issues, improving overall patient outcomes.
The impact of excess weight on spinal alignment
Carrying extra weight, especially in the abdominal area, shifts the body’s center of gravity forward. This can cause the spine to curve excessively, leading to conditions such as lordosis (swayback) or kyphosis (hunchback). Additionally, increased pressure on the intervertebral discs can accelerate degenerative changes, leading to herniated discs, sciatica and chronic lower back pain.
By incorporating weight management strategies into their practice, DCs can help alleviate pain and resolve these issues. Weight loss reduces the mechanical load on the spine, improves posture and enhances the effectiveness of chiropractic adjustments and other treatments.
Address a common misconception
Some people believe natural products are not as effective as synthetic ones. However, evidence shows natural GLP-1 products, taken as directed and accompanied by healthy diet and exercise, can be equally effective without the side effects associated with synthetic drugs; if they can activate BAT and modulate blood sugar levels, they can produce an outcome similar to those typical of Ozempic users.
Additional benefits of a natural approach
Beyond weight loss, natural GLP-1 products may offer other health benefits. Depending on the product, they may improve metabolic health by enhancing insulin sensitivity and reducing blood sugar levels; they may also have anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce chronic inflammation, which is linked to various health problems. Patients may also experience better energy levels due to BAT activation, and enhanced overall well-being, which contribute to a higher quality of life.
Implement natural GLP-1 in your practice
Integrating a natural GLP-1 weight loss system into your chiropractic practice involves educating patients about the benefits of these products and how they can aid in weight management. DCs can provide personalized weight loss plans, including products, dietary guidance and exercise recommendations tailored to patients’ individual needs.
Educate and support your patients
Effective implementation requires a comprehensive approach that includes patient education and ongoing support. DCs can explain the science behind natural GLP-1 and how it fits into a holistic weight management plan. Providing resources, such as dietary guidelines and exercise tips, can help patients make sustainable lifestyle changes.
Future directions and innovations
The future of natural GLP-1 products looks promising, with ongoing research focusing on enhancing their efficacy and exploring new therapeutic applications. Potential developments include more targeted formulations and combination therapies that can offer even greater benefits. As research progresses, natural GLP-1 products could become integral to both weight management and broader chiropractic care practices.
Final thoughts
DCs have a unique opportunity to expand patient care by addressing the growing demand for weight loss solutions. Natural GLP-1 products can offer practical, natural alternatives to traditional weight loss medications. By focusing on the root causes of spinal issues and incorporating weight management into their practice, DCs can significantly impact patients’ lives.
JOHN MCGUIRE is the president of ExpertRev Enterprises and the driving force behind a consultancy focused on delivering insights and advisory services that enable small businesses and start-ups to increase operational capabilities, drive growth and improve performance. He has a long history of helping various medical companies and clinics reach their full economic potential. For additional information on GLP-1 tools, send an email to jmcguire@expertrev.com or reach out via 904-234-6220.
CHRIS D. MELETIS, a naturopathic physician, is an educator, international author and lecturer who has authored 19 books and more than 200 national scientific journal articles. He can be contacted at NaturalMedMan@hotmail.com. To learn more about the natural GLP-1 product, visit: http://21555425.hs-sites.com/the-edislim-system.
References
- Andriacchi T, Mündermann A. The role of ambulatory mechanics in the initiation and progression of knee osteoarthritis. Current Opinion in Rheumatology. 2006;18(5):514-518. Wolters Kluwer. https://journals.lww.com/co-rheumatology/Abstract/2006/09000/The_role_of_ambulatory_mechanics_in_the_initiation.15.aspx. Accessed July 12, 2204.
- Fanuele J, et al. Association between obesity and functional status in patients with spine disease. Spine. 2002;27(3):306-312. Wolters Kluwer. https://journals.lww.com/spinejournal/toc/2002/02010. Accessed July 12, 2024.
- Finucane MM, et al. National, regional, and global trends in body-mass index since 1980: Systematic analysis of health examination surveys and epidemiological studies with 960 country-years and 9·1 million participants. Lancet. 2011;377(9765):557-567. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21295846/. Accessed July 12, 2024.
- Walker-Bone KE, et al. Soft-tissue rheumatic disorders of the neck and upper limb: prevalence and risk factors. Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism. 2003;33:185-203. Science Direct. https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/seminars-in-arthritis-and-rheumatism/vol/33/issue/3. Accessed July 12, 2024.
- Recommendations for the medical management of osteoarthritis of the hip and knee: 2000 update. American College of Rheumatology Subcommittee on Osteoarthritis Guidelines. Arthritis Rheumatology. 2000;43:1905-1915. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11014340/. Accessed July 12, 2024.
- Simopoulos AP. The importance of the ratio of omega-6/omega-3 essential fatty acids. Biomed and Pharmacother. 2002;56(8):365-79. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12442909/. Accessed July 12, 2024.