“Is There a Vaccine Against Obesity?”
Ideal Health
Hippocrates’ ancient wisdom, “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food,” cannot ring any more true than it does today. The escalating metabolic health crisis in North America has reached alarming proportions. The undeniable link between the proliferation of “Big Food” and the surge in diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension has become increasingly apparent. The food industry’s mass production and refining processes have stripped much of our sustenance of real nutrition, leading to a myriad of illnesses. It’s increasingly evident that these food products border more on poison than real nutrition. The excessive consumption of empty calories among Americans has notably contributed to morbid obesity and the prevalence of type 2 diabetes.
Unlike certain diseases where a vaccine can offer prevention or mitigation, there’s no magic immunization against obesity. Metabolic syndrome, a combination of conditions including high blood pressure, diabetes/elevated blood sugar, excess abdominal fat (visceral), and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels, stands as a formidable health risk for millions globally. Its management demands a comprehensive approach, wherein emerging methodologies like health coaching and the adoption of a ketogenic diet are gaining recognition for their potential in managing and even reversing its effects.
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April 2024
While medications such as Ozempic serve to address type 2 diabetes and obesity, belonging to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class, they’re not exempt from potential side effects. Beyond gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, research reveals that a considerable portion—approximately 40-60 percent—of weight loss attributed to such medications constitutes MUSCLE LOSS. Considering that muscle is a vital calorie-burning engine and a primary user of glucose, this side effect can lead to rapid weight regain post-medication cessation, involving fat regain without the regained muscle. In essence, these medications may inadvertently exacerbate metabolic health concerns and worsen the metabolic health crisis in North America.
In contrast, success stories like Greg’s (pictured above) exemplify the efficacy of addressing the root cause of the issue through health coaching and a medically designed ketogenic protocol. Greg, having shed 156 pounds on our protocol, stands as a testament to this approach. He has not only achieved weight loss but also sustained his improved metabolic health over the last several years. Furthermore, we have a client at our Fairbanks clinic who is down 290 pounds and counting!
It’s pivotal to recognize that an individual’s weight doesn’t singularly dictate their health or metabolic state. Conversely, a person appearing to have a “normal weight” might not necessarily denote metabolic health. Part of assessing an individual’s metabolic health status should encompass evaluating their body fat percentage (how much fat relative to how much muscle mass). This evaluation provides a more accurate status of metabolic health. In our clinic, we do advanced body composition testing utilizing the InBody 570 on a weekly basis.
In navigating the complexity of metabolic syndrome and obesity, the path forward lies not in a mythical vaccine but in holistic approaches like health coaching and dietary interventions. It’s crucial to understand how to use food as medicine and leverage our body’s physiology to our benefit while moving away from excessive reliance on medications. I’m not suggesting that there is no place for these new GLP-1’s, but they should not remain the only intervention to obesity or addressing obesity-related disease.
To learn more about the science of our metabolism, how our body utilizes energy, and how to lose fat consistently without struggling with hunger or cravings, please consider attending our 60-minute, free educational seminar on Saturday, Jan 20th at 1pm. Text “SEMINAR” to 907-885-3130 to RSVP. I hope to see you there!
Dylan Webb, CHHC
In their company kitchens, the Corporate 100 blend wholesome ingredients with exquisite utensils to create the scrumptious ambrosia that keeps employees gratified and contented. Meet the top Alaska employers ranked by number of Alaskans on their payroll, and learn the recipe for success. This issue also includes a focus on economic development initiatives in Anchorage and Kodiak.