Living my journey with the fat-reducing injection
Dr. Dennis Ballwieser, editor-in-chief of Apotheken Umschau, embarks on a unique weight loss journey by using a GLP-1 receptor agonist medication, such as Semaglutid. These drugs mimic the hormone Glucagon-like Peptide-1 (GLP-1), which helps reduce appetite and promote weight loss.
Since starting the treatment, Dr. Ballwieser injects a dose every Friday. The medication is being used in Munich, Germany. Dr. Ballwieser weighed 155 kg at 1.78 meters initially, but since starting the treatment, he has lost an impressive 20 kg.
Dr. Ballwieser has noticed a decrease in his appetite, and he feels when he's hungry or full. This change has allowed him to make better food choices and maintain a healthier diet. His initial strategy was to wear clothes that were too big, but he has since been able to buy new, smaller clothes, three sizes smaller than before.
However, the treatment is not without its challenges. Dr. Ballwieser has experienced nausea, which he sees as a sign that the medication is working. Other known side effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists like Semaglutid include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and possible injection site reactions. These side effects are generally mild to moderate and tend to decrease over time as the body adjusts.
There have been reports of gallbladder and pancreas inflammation associated with the use of the medication, but Dr. Ballwieser is aware of the potential side effects and is under medical supervision.
Dr. Ballwieser feels that people with obesity are often stigmatized and denied medication. He emphasizes that obesity is often misunderstood as a simple result of overeating and lack of exercise, but it is a complex disease. He believes that he is buying time with the injections, hoping that future medical advancements will help him maintain his weight loss.
Society's lack of regulation on advertising unhealthy food to children is a concern for Dr. Ballwieser. He feels that it contributes to the obesity epidemic and believes that more should be done to promote healthy eating habits.
Dr. Ballwieser's goal is to be as healthy as possible for as long as possible, so he can spend time with his family. He has tried many diets in his life, but none have been successful in the long term. He hopes that his weight loss journey with the GLP-1 receptor agonist medication will inspire others to take control of their health and seek out medical solutions when needed.
Fusing science with health-and-wellness, Dr. Ballwieser's weight loss journey using Semaglutid, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, has led him to incorporate fitness-and-exercise and weight-management strategies. His overall well-being has improved, allowing him to consider a variety of healthy food choices and maintain a diet that supports his weight loss goals.
