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Everyone's weight-loss journey is a bit differentbut in general, you need to make some dietary changes to shed extra pounds. When switching your habits, you probably head to the supermarket to stock up on fresh fruit, veggies, and lean proteins like chicken. But while wandering the aisles, it can be tough to pick out other healthy options to eat. Making things more complicated, some products tout weight-loss effects when they're really "fake health foods" that can derail your progress, according to fitness expert Michael Smoak. Read on to find out which foods and brands he says to avoid if you're serious about weight loss.

RELATED:Fitness Coach Shares "3 Easy Steps" to Lose Weight Before Summer.

In a Jan. 7 TikTok video, Smoak (@HigherUpWellness) takes viewers on a trip through his local grocery store to showcase "fake health foods."

First up on his list of skips is Bolthouse Farms Protein Plus shakes.

"[If you tell me], 'Oh, I'm eating cleaner,' and I see one of these in your hands, I will slap it out of your hand and then slap you," Smoak jokes.

Even though the shake has protein, he notes that it also has 49 grams of sugar and a total of 400 calories.

"You can eat a sizable whole-food-based meal for 400 calories," Smoak says.

RELATED: Lose 50 Pounds by Following 2 Simple Rules, Successful Dieter Says. ae0fcc31ae342fd3a1346ebb1f342fcb

Next up on the list of "fake health foods" is Power Up Premium Trail Mix. According to Smoak, even though it promises "high energy," that doesn't necessarily make it a good choice.

"No, this isn't inherently bad food, but it is very calorie-dense for like, this much food," he says, holding up his hand in a small circle formation. On the back of the trail mix packaging, it lists the serving size as a quarter cup.

"So, if your goal is fat loss, put the [expletive] trail mix back," Smoak urges viewers.

Smoak also picks up a pack of Yoplay Original yogurt, which says it is "low fat" and an "excellent source of calcium" on the packaging. While this may have you believe you're starting your day with the healthiest choice, you'd be mistaken.

"Only 5 grams of protein and 20 grams of sugar," Smoak says, recommending that you swap out the Yoplait for Oikos Triple Zero Blended Greek Yogurt.

"Less calories, three times the protein," he says. "See how getting fit is just about raising your awareness? Little swaps like Yoplait for Oikoslike putting the [expletive] Bolthouse Farm juice down and just having a meal instead, or just a regular protein shake."

RELATED: Certain Foods Trigger Natural Ozempic-Like Weight Loss Effect, Doctor Says.

Smoak continues to stress paying attention to marketing ploysespecially if you're a fan of pistachios.

According to Smoak, if you regularly buy these nuts because the packaging advertises "protein," that's not actually the full truth.

"Pistachios and nuts are a fat source, not a protein source," he says. "I'm not yelling at you. I'm not mad at you. I'm mad at big food."

While some nutritionists say there are good choices in the cereal aisle, Smoak recommends avoiding it altogether.

"Anyand I mean anykind of cereal" is a fake health food, he says, listing common buzzwords like "made with real food," "good source of fiber," and "good source of calcium."

"Cereal is the worst thingwell, one of the worst thingsyou can start your day with," he tells viewers. "You should start every day, or the first meal of every day, high in protein. You know what cereal has none of? Protein."

For a good source of protein, consider swapping cereal for eggs, Smoak suggests.

RELATED:Walmart Shopper Reveals the 5 Frozen Foods He Ate to Lose 100 Pounds.

Rounding out his list, Smoak also cautions against buying juiceeven if you've always thought it's a healthy choice.

"If you're still drinking juice cause you think it's healthier, a good source of vitamins, you're almost too far gone," he says. "Luckily, you found this video. I got you."

Smoak advises viewers to stop drinking juices like Tropicana due to the sugar content.

"You know the only place real sugar occurs in nature? In fruit, bound up in fiber," he explains. "Orange juice is just sugar without the fiber. Not good for your blood sugar, not good for your energy, not good for your appetite, not good for you."

If these particular items aren't on your regular shopping list and you're still looking for tips to shop smarter, Smoak recommends shopping in certain areas of your local food store.

"Easiest tip in the world, if you wanna be healthiershop the perimeter of the grocery store," he says. "Meat is on the perimeter, fruits and vegetables are on the perimeter."

The items that might detract from your weight-loss journey tend to be in the middle aisles, so those are areas to "limit," Smoak cautions.

Best Life offers the most up-to-date information from top experts, new research, and health agencies, but our content is not meant to be a substitute for professional guidance. When it comes to the medication you're taking or any other health questions you have, always consult your healthcare provider directly.

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If You Want to Lose Weight, "Avoid These Foods Like the Plague," Fitness Expert Says - Best Life

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A phase two drug trial for amycretin will kick off during the second half of the year (Pexels)

The manufacturer of weight loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy has started developing a brand new obesity pill intended to help patients shed weight faster than its existing jabs.

According to Novo Nordisk, a pharmaceutical company headquartered in Denmark, early trials for its experimental obesity drug amycretin revealed patients were able to lose more than 13 per cent of their weight after 12 week. However, Wegovy only helps people lose up to six per cent over the same period.

A phase two drug trial will begin the second half of the year, with results expected in early 2026, the company said.

Amycretin targets the same glucagon-like peptide-1 hormone that Ozempic and Wegovy do, which regulates appetite and feelings of fullness. It also stimulates another, called amylin, which also reduces hunger and slows stomach emptying.

The side effects experienced were in line with its other GLP-1 drugs, according to Novo Nordisk, including gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, constipation and diarrhoea.

Martin Holst Lange, Novo Nordisk's head of development, said he anticipated the pill could be available to consumers "within this decade".

"I never commit to timelines but I would be very comfortable to say at the very least within this decade", he said.

Novo Nordisk is worth around $428bn (336bn), making it more valuable than the annual output of the entire Danish economy.

As the new drug is in the works, here is a look at the companys top products: Ozempic and Wegovy.

As with Wegovy, adults with type 2 diabetes use the once-weekly injectable drug Ozempic to help control their blood sugar levels.

Despite Ozempic not being classified as a weight-loss medication, research indicates that those who use it may experience slight weight reduction while doing so.

Wegovy is an injectable medicine used for adults with obesity or a (body mass index) BMI of 27 or more. Patients will be required to inject themselves weekly.

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It suppresses appetite by mimicking a hormone named glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) that is normally released after eating. This makes people feel full, meaning they eat less and lose weight.

Nick Finer, honorary clinical professor at the National Centre for Cardiovascular Prevention and Outcomes at University College London, said: The efficacy of semaglutide is a true game-changer for the medical treatment of obesity, a chronic disease that shortens life through its many complications.

It has been reported that some users have hailed the drug as a miracle given the dramatic weight loss they have enjoyed.

Semaglutide has received various high-profile celebrity endorsements, with figures such as Twitter boss Elon Musk claiming to have used the drug. A Twitter user asked Mr Musk last October how he remained fit, ripped, and healthy, to which he replied fasting and Wegovy.

Those with a BMI of 30 or more, or those with a BMI of 27 or more who also have a weight-related medical problem, can use the drug. Patients who are prescribed the medication will have the injections as part of a thorough weight-management programme and an increase in exercise.

Nice said that weight-related conditions that will make obese people eligible will include type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, high blood pressure, dyslipidaemia (unbalanced or unhealthy cholesterol levels), obstructive sleep apnoea and heart disease.

A study found that the weight of people who were given the drug fell by 12 per cent on average after 68 weeks.

Wegovy helps with long-term weight loss by regulating the bodys appetite and the amount of calories people consume.

Wegovy was approved for NHS use following research that indicated users could lose more than 10 per cent of their body weight but experts have warned that skinny jabs are no substitute for exercising and maintaining a healthy diet.

Nice said side effects should be minimal when the drug is used correctly. Symptoms include mild nausea, diarrhoea and headaches, but they were found to be mild to moderate in severity and subsided with time.

Analysis discovered that several patients who took Wegovy and Ozempic suffered severe gastroparesis, better known as stomach paralysis. Two patients who had taken the type 2 diabetes medication Ozempic said their stomachs are paralysed in a CNN article from July 25.

Wegovy is one of several weight-loss drugs being investigated for a possible link to thoughts of suicide and self-harm among users, the BBC has reported. The European Medicines Agency will investigate Wegovy, Saxenda, Ozempic and other similar drugs after three cases were identified in Iceland.

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What is amycretin? Ozempic maker reveals new weight loss pill more effective than jab - Yahoo Singapore News

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Summary

Devin Hoofman has transformed her physique since appearing on 90 Day Fianc season 10. The 24-year-old joined the show alongside Seungdo Nick Ham, Devin's now husband. She quickly gained attention because of her looks, which changed drastically between episode 1 and Tell All. In March 2024, Devin revealed the real reason she got into shape and why she gained weight in the first place. Devin said she had put on a lot of weight from binge-drinking and eating, adding that she did it to cope with the anxiety from filming the show.

Like most cast members who drastically change their looks, Devins transformation isn't surprising. Many accused Nick of making her insecure by calling her piggy, pushing her to change herself. Others felt her newfound confidence likely allowed her to become more self-loving. Devin has shared her weight-loss transformation on social media, showing her followers how much she has changed. Her Instagram posts also tell the whole story of her extraordinary weight loss, showing exactly how she gained weight and dropped it.

Devin looked beautiful when she debuted on 90 Day Fianc season 10; however, she clearly was unhappy with herself, which kick-started her weight-loss journey. Devins pictures from 2017 show she had a slender physique and a more youthful style. She wore colorful outfits and loved posting her photos on social media. One of her old pictures from December 2017 shows her sporting a red dress alongside long black shoes. Devin also has brown hair in her old photo instead of blonde.

In December 2023, Devin posted her wedding photo album, where she wore her gorgeous and elegant white wedding gown. She looked charming and very happy. As expected, Devins post got many lovely comments from her 90 Day Fianc co-stars. Anali Vallejos wrote, the most beautiful bride! Citra Herani commented, So jealous I wish I had that photographer. Devin got thousands of likes from her followers, showing her love.

Throughout Devins run on 90 Day Fianc, she never looked overweight. Instead, she always had a glow and a sweet smile that oozed positivity. Even when Nick called Devin piggy, she would laugh and respond nicely. Devin told her parents that Nick's words didnt bother her. She had an average physique throughout the season and never looked unfit or unhealthy. She and Nick even looked perfect together during their wedding ceremony.

Devin shocked fans with her weight-loss transformation when she posted a full-body photo of herself in January 2024. Devin stood alongside her co-star, Clayton Clark, and her husband, Nick, but stood apart because of her new slimmer physique and radiant glow. She captioned her post, we had a very nice time, highlighting that shes happier than ever. The reality star sported a cute short jacket alongside a white crop top, proudly showing off toned mid-drift. Devin looked more confident than ever, appearing calm and content with herself while exploring Atlanta, Georgia.

Whether Nicks name-calling against Devin was malicious or not, it did both her in some way. Compared to Devin, Nick's fashion sense is average at best and isn't much fitter than she was. Hes no longer the smaller one in the relationship, which gives Devin a chance to call him a name if she wants to. She has achieved a model-like physique, and most of her new photos show that.

Devin has upped her fashion sense. In December 2023, she shared a video, revealing what she would've worn on 90 Day Fianc if she had more confidence while filming.

She wrote, outfits I wouldve worn on 90 Day Fianc if I had more confidence and less wardrobe restriction.

In the video, Devin wore several outfits, showing her true style. She wore denim shorts, white socks, and black shoes, looking like an urban artist. She then sported glasses, a cute black top, baggy jeans, and heavy boots. The 90 Day Fianc star also wore other cute outfits, like a black dress.

While Devin looked great throughout 90 Day Fianc, her video proved that she gained a lot of confidence after losing weight. Fans also love Devins self-assured personality, as many are impressed with how she's changed, which fans praise her for in the comments. In her outfit video, many followers congratulated Devin for rediscovering herself. While one social media user commented, you are beautiful with any outfit, another wrote, looks beautiful as always!! People are happy that Devin is now free to be herself.

During the 90 Day Fianc season 10 Tell All, Devin shared that she had lost a lot of weight since filming. One 90 Day Fianc fan account, 90dayfianceupdate, recently shared Devins look from Tell All, where she looks incredibly different from how she used to look. She has a sharp jawline and prominent collar bones. A social media user commented on the post, I thought no way she lost 100 lbs. Hopefully, the 90 Day Fianc star will continue to focus on staying healthy.

90 Day Fianc: Happily Ever After? season 8 premieres Sunday, March 17 at 8 p.m. EST on TLC.

Sources: Devin Hoofman/Instagram, Devin Hoofman/Instagram, Devin Hoofman/Instagram, Devin Hoofman/Instagram, 90dayfianceupdate/Instagram

90 Day Fiance is a reality TV series that follows the trials and tribulations of Non-U.S. citizens who travel from abroad each season to meet their potential spouses utilizing a K-1 visa. This three-month visa gives the pair 90 days to determine whether or not their romantic and life goals are aligned before they're forced to return home unmarried. Drama and tension unfold as the couples navigate the tricky dynamics of international marriage.

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90 Day Fianc: Devin Hoofman's Extraordinary Weight Loss Milestone (See Her Body Transformation In Pictures) - Screen Rant

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By Charles Passy

Winfrey has faced backlash since announcing she's taken a weight-loss medication - and now she's hosting a TV special about the injectable drugs

Leave Oprah alone.

Yes, Oprah Winfrey has been in the news of late for her decision to sell her stake in WW International (WW) (otherwise known as WeightWatchers) and exit the company's board. The decision came after Winfrey announced, to considerable backlash, that she was taking a weight-loss drug to help her in her longtime battle to lose some pounds and keep them off.

Now, Winfrey is even going back to television to talk about the whole category of injectable drugs, such as Ozempic (NVO), Wegovy (NVO) and Mounjaro (LLY). "An Oprah Special: Shame, Blame and the Weight Loss Revolution" will air on ABC (DIS) on March 18 and stream on Hulu the following day.

Winfrey had once said using a weight-loss drug was "the easy way out." And indeed, as the public face of WeightWatchers, a company that touted a more traditional diet-based approach to battling obesity, one could see why Winfrey might have made such a remark.

But after changing course and admitting to hopping on the medication bandwagon, Winfrey was labeled a hypocrite on social media. Some also likely saw her announcement as opportunistic and self-serving given that it followed WW's acquisition of Sequence, a company that provides access to the popular fat-fighting medications..

Either way, Winfrey was bound to face some criticism if for no other reason than the fact many view the new wave of drugs as the lazy person's solution to shedding pounds. It's the whole why-don't-you-just-have-more-willpower? stigma that has always been part of the weight-loss discussion.

It's unclear if and how any of this may have played a part in Winfrey's decision to leave WW. Winfrey issued a statement, saying, "I look forward to continuing to advise and collaborate with WeightWatchers and CEO Sima Sistani in elevating the conversation around recognizing obesity as a chronic condition, working to reduce stigma, and advocating for health equity."

But as someone who has spent all their adult life dealing with a weight problem, I go back to what I said up top: Leave Oprah alone.

'It's never fun being fat'

It's never fun being fat. It drains you physically. It subjects you to all sorts of verbal and emotional abuse - crass remarks from strangers at a bar, sneering looks from airplane passengers when you try to squeeze into your assigned seat.

And perhaps worst of all, it forever leaves you thinking it's all your own fault and forever has you searching for a solution in turn. More often than not, you don't want to do things the "easy" way because you want to show the world you can beat this thing.

Until you finally realize it's not, well, so easy.

At my heaviest about 15 years ago, I weighed nearly 300 lbs. and had roughly crossed the line into the "morbidly obese" category. Now, at age 60, I'm down around 90 pounds. I'm happier and healthier, even if I recognize my journey is far from over. Obesity is very much a chronic disease and it must be treated as such, medical experts increasingly note.

But to get to where I am, I also had to stop thinking that relying on my own sheer will, as in sticking to any of the gazillion diets I've tried, could be the solution. In my case, that involved making two key decisions.

To be fat is to live with a constant mirror, real or imagined, in front of you, asking yourself, "Why am I this way?"

First, I had weight-loss surgery - specifically, the gastric-band (or LAP-Band) procedure that restricts the amount of food you can easily consume. That got me about halfway there. And when the new weight-loss drugs came on the market, I followed a doctor's advice and went on one of them - namely, Mounjaro - and dropped the rest.

How do I relate my story to Winfrey's? Like I said, I was long skeptical of solutions that didn't align with some preconceived notion about the right way to lose weight. But it's also because I know how confusing it all is: To be fat is to live with a constant mirror, real or imagined, in front of you, asking yourself, "Why am I this way?"

I'm hardly alone, of course. Oprah and I have lots of people in our camp. (For the record, nearly 40% of U.S. adults are obese.) And I suspect most of us live with a degree of shame - the very shame Winfrey spoke about when she revealed she was taking a weight-loss drug after years of struggle (she has yet to reveal which one she's been prescribed).

And it's all compounded by a society that questions if our weight-loss is "earned" if it's via drugs.

Just listen to the story of Anne Ahola Ward, a 45-year-old resident of Austin, Texas. Like me, Ward has struggled with a weight problem her whole life, but has lost 63 pounds in the past year after being prescribed Wegovy. Still, she feels the stinging judgment of others in her decision to go the drug route.

"How is it anybody's business the choices I've made?" she told me.

Plus, there's an important context here: Most of us fighting to get thinner aren't doing this so we can enter some beauty contest. We're literally fighting for our lives, given all the medical issues - heart disease, cancer, you name it - associated with obesity. The weight-loss drugs then become those lifesavers.

Dr. Michael Glickman, a Washington, D.C.-based physician who specializes in obesity medicine, said we need to see the weight-loss medications in the same way we look at cancer treatments, like radiation or chemotherapy. What's needed is needed.

"You would never tell a friend who has cancer, 'Why don't you go out and get more exercise?'" Glickman told me.

The irony to all this is that weight-loss drugs should not be viewed so much as a solution, but rather as a tool.

That is, you don't magically shed pounds when you're on them. But they help with reducing cravings - I can certainly attest to that - so it's easier to maintain a proper diet. In the end, you still need to do the work, which typically means being on a sensible eating plan, such as that promoted by WeightWatchers, and getting in some exercise.

As Winfrey herself explained last year of her regimen: "It's not one thing. It's everything."

Let's respect Winfrey for finally finding that "everything" and being frank about her weight-loss journey. I, for one, wish her nothing but the best.

-Charles Passy

This content was created by MarketWatch, which is operated by Dow Jones & Co. MarketWatch is published independently from Dow Jones Newswires and The Wall Street Journal.

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

03-09-24 1405ET

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Oprah to host ABC special on weight-loss drugs. Why people should stop criticizing her for taking them. - Morningstar

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Summary

My 600-lb Life alum, Krystal Stoor, didnt have an easy weight-loss journey while filming season 12. The reality show recently returned to TV and premiered with Krystal's story, a 36-year-old Idaho resident who struggled with obesity. The first episode of My 600-lb Life season 12 started with Krystal waking up and talking about her current situation. She revealed she lived with her parents but hated that they had to care for her like a child. Krystal also discussed being in constant pain, even allowing the film crew to film her in the shower.

Krystals family talked about how she had always struggled with weight, being nearly 105 pounds in kindergarten. They were worried about her health but couldnt do anything about her food addiction. Krystal talked about how she got run over by an SUV in childhood, and it became a pivotal point, resulting in her weight gain. She also got pregnant at a young age and went through multiple breakups, which pushed her toward obesity. Krystal revealed she was finally happy with her latest boyfriend, Damian; however, she wanted to lose weight before getting married, so she should have a fresh start.

Krystals weight-loss journey began when she decided to consult Dr. Younan Nowzaradan. While she was worried about the 25-hour trip, it didnt stop her from taking the first step toward a healthier life. When Krystal did her first weigh-in, she discovered she weighed 690 pounds; however, Krystal was happy she wasnt over 700 pounds, but Dr. Now quickly humbled her. The surgeon gave her some exercise options and lifestyle changes to allow her to drop enough weight so she's cleared for bariatric surgery.

Krystal began working on herself in the coming months, exercising twice a day and making rapid progress. She began planning her wedding with Damian and getting ready to become his wife. Halfway through her episode, Krystal finally took the big step and tied the knot with her boyfriend. She couldnt wait to lose more weight and have her first dance with him. Dr. Now kept encouraging Krystal to stay active, and she continued to make him proud by sticking to her routine. Ultimately, the My 600-lb Life star lost 186 pounds, reaching 505 pounds, and received theweight-loss surgery.

Like most My 600-Lb Life cast members, Krystal was excited about her new life after bariatric surgery. She felt free as she was able to be more active and social after years of being trapped. According to Distractify, Krystal returned to Idaho and began living in Idaho Falls as a stay-at-home mom. She also broke up with Damian, which was unfortunate, because she saw a future with him. In mid-2023, the My 600-lb Life star hinted more at a new relationship. Unfortunately, she didnt say much about her weight loss or ongoing lifestyle.

Krystal reached 505 pounds in 12 months. She dropped a lot of weight ahead of her weight-loss journey but has since not shared about her ongoing wellness journey. Krystal may return to My 600-lb Life: Where Are They Now sometime in 2024 to share real-time updates on her life. Since Krystal is part of the latest season, it wouldnt be beneficial for her to share her updates. Shell likely share more about her life if she returns to the spin-off.

Many My 600-lb Life cast members face mistreatment outside the show. The preview clip of episode 1 showed Krystal at a grocery store with her family and noticed people making fun of her body. Luckily, Krystal had her family by her side and defended her by calling these people out for laughing and taking pictures of Krystal. The preview clip also showed Krystals daughter supporting her.

Things must have improved for Krystal over the last two years. At the end of her episode, she weighed 505 pounds, and Dr. Now even said Krystal should lose more weight post-surgery. The grocery incident occurred when Krystal was at her lowest point, weighing 690 pounds. However, Krystal has made efforts to improve herself since, and hopefully, she wont get the same reaction from people anymore.

Krystal is on social media but doesnt post much. She goes by Krystal Anglesey on Facebook, a newer account. According to her bio, she lost access to her other account and had to make a new one. Krystal has shared a few updates since the conclusion of her reality TV journey. She has seemingly moved to Idaho Falls, which she labels as her current city. She also started a relationship with Joey Ormsbee, which she discussed in November 2023.

Krystal hasnt posted many new photos since her weight-loss surgery and doesnt seem to have an Instagram. However, her new boyfriend is active on social media and has shared some recent pictures of Krystal. In January 2024, Joey posted a close-up selfie of Krystal, where she looked better than ever. Joey titled the post, isnt she beautiful yall, and got an immediate thank you from Krystal. The My 600-lb Life star looked much healthier and happier, suggesting shes likely to stick to her weight-loss regime and diet after the show.

My 600-lb Life airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET on TLC.

Sources: Distractify, Krystal Anglesey/Facebook, Joey Ormsbee/Facebook

My 600-lb Life is a reality television series that airs on TLC. Since 2012, each episode follows a year in the life of a morbidly obese person. These individuals seek help from renowned bariatric surgeon, Dr. Younan Nowzaradan, AKA Dr. Now. He performs weight loss and skin removal surgeries on the patients. My 600-lb Life is an inspiring series that documents the patients' setbacks and successes.

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What Happened To Krystal S. After My 600-Lb Life Season 12? - Screen Rant

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the weight-loss drug Wegovy as a treatment to reduce cardiovascular risk in adults who are overweight, the first approval of its kind that could dramatically expand the already huge market for the drug.

Wegovy, which has the same active ingredient as diabetes drug Ozempic, already had FDA approval to treat patients who are obese or overweight. It has become a cultural sensation and a blockbuster, bringing in billions of dollars in revenue for its manufacturer, Novo Nordisk.

Wegovy is now the first weight loss medication to also be approved to help prevent life-threatening cardiovascular events in adults with cardiovascular disease and either obesity or overweight, John Sharretts, a director in the FDAs Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, said in a statement Friday.

We recognize how important this moment is for the millions of people who live with excess weight or obesity and known heart disease, and we will continue to advance options that put their needs first, Doug Langa, head of Novo Nordisks North American operations, said in a statement.

The FDAs expansion of Wegovys regulatory label comes after a closely watched clinical trial last year found that the drug dramatically reduced the risk of heart problems for overweight people. In a five-year study of more than 17,600 patients, Wegovy cut the risk of strokes, heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems by 20 percent among overweight adults with a history of heart disease. Expanding Wegovys regulatory label could also entice more insurers to cover the pricey drug, according to researchers and Wall Street analysts.

The result will pressure insurers and the federal government to cover this medication, said Harlan Krumholz, a cardiologist at the Yale School of Medicine. It will be increasingly difficult to deny people access to these medications, as this is not about appearance but concerns health.

Wegovy, whose active ingredient is semaglutide, works by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1). It slows the emptying of the stomach and sends a signal of fullness to the brain.

Some financial analysts say GLP-1 drugs, as theyre sometimes called, including Eli Lillys tirzepatide-based products Mounjaro and Zepbound, could become the biggest-selling class of drugs ever. In a December report, Goldman Sachs compared Novo Nordisk and Eli Lillys innovations with Amazon and Apple, saying they have the opportunity to expand into categories far beyond what most investors are currently contemplating.

But their dominance is far from assured, as competitors large and small are creating their own weight-loss drugs that rival the market-leading drugs. In addition, the high cost of the drugs the list price for a months supply of Wegovy costs more than $1,300 means some employers and insurance plans have been reluctant to cover the medications. Undesirable side effects, including nausea and vomiting, can also limit how long patients are willing to take the weekly injectable drug.

Demand for Wegovy has been so intense that Novo Nordisk has struggled to churn out enough, leading the FDA to declare the drug in shortage beginning in March 2022. Novo and Lilly are racing to secure enough manufacturing power to keep up with the growing demand for their marquee products.

Denmark-based Novo said in January that it had begun boosting supplies of Wegovy in the United States, after curtailing starting doses last year to ensure there would be enough for existing patients. Then in February, Novos controlling shareholder acquired Catalent, a manufacturer based in New Jersey, an unusual move that would give the drugmaker three new manufacturing plants.

On the front lines of battling obesity, some doctors caution that the FDAs decision does not mean insurers will quickly embrace paying for the drugs. At the Stanford Lifestyle and Weight Management Center at Stanford University, insurers routinely deny patients who qualify for the weight-loss drugs, often for opaque reasons, said Dan Azagury, the centers medical director.

He said he doesnt expect that to change, but the FDAs decision on Wegovy gives physicians one more leg to stand on when they are trying to justify to insurance companies that this treatment is the right treatment.

Dana P. Goldman, an economist at the University of Southern California, said insurers will eventually be able to negotiate lower prices for GLP-1 drugs. We are going to see a very steep discount on these products in the next couple years, he said, adding, The challenge will be scaling up production.

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FDA approves weight-loss drug Wegovy to reduce heart-disease risks - The Washington Post

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An oral weight loss drug could help people with obesity who dislike needles

Kseniya Ovchinnikova/Getty Images

An experimental pill looks set to cause more weight loss than existing injectable treatments such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro, based on early trial results reported on 7 March.

The medicine, called amycretin, caused people to lose 13 per cent of their weight over three months, more than twice the amount seen with Ozempic and Wegovy specifically. This approach seems to be a little bit more exciting, from the limited data that we have, says Daniel Drucker at the University of Toronto in Canada.

The results are from a placebo-controlled trial lasting three months, so it is too soon to know how amycretin stacks up against the other medicines for long-term effectiveness and safety, says Drucker, who wasnt involved in the trial but has consulted for the manufacturer Novo Nordisk, as well as other pharmaceutical firms.

The diabetes drug Ozempic and the weight loss drug Wegovy are two brand names for the compound semaglutide. They work by mimicking a gut hormone called GLP-1 that is normally released after eating. This makes people feel full, reduces their appetite and boosts the release of the blood-sugar-regulating hormone insulin.

Semaglutide leads to the loss of about 15 per cent of body weight after it has been taken for one year, although weight then plateaus and people need to continue the injections long term or it tends to creep back up.

Another weight loss injection was launched last year, called Mounjaro, also known as tirzepatide or Zepbound. This mimics GLP-1 and an additional gut hormone called GIP. Mounjaro seems to lead to people losing about 21 per cent of their weight over the first year and five months of use, before their weight loss plateaus.

Amycretin, however, mimics GLP-1 and a different hormone called amylin, which seems to make it more potent still at least over the first three months of treatment. People taking amycretin lost 13 per cent of their weight in this period, Novo Nordisk announced today, according to a report by Reuters. Those taking placebo pills lost 1 per cent.This is more than the equivalent figures for Wegovy and Ozempic, of 6 per cent, and for Mounjaro, of about 7.5 per cent.

However, we can only know for sure how the drugs measure up long term when they are compared under exactly the same circumstances in a single study, says Drucker. These are not head-to-head trials.

Another caveat is that medicines that work by mimicking GLP-1 have been used for more than a decade to treat type 2 diabetes and so their safety profile is well understood, which isnt the case for an amylin mimic.

Novo Nordisk has also said that amycretins side effects were similar to those of Wegovy, which tend to be nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea, especially for people who increase the dose too quickly.

Being available in tablet form would be a great advantage for people who dont like injections, says Daniel Chancellor at global pharmaceutical business analysts Citeline. An oral pill is very attractive.

As well as these three medicines, other weight loss drugs that mimic other gut hormones are also in development.

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Experimental weight loss pill seems to be more potent than Ozempic - New Scientist

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Jesse Plemons, the acclaimed actor known for his versatility and powerful performances, recently opened up about his notable weight loss journey and the motivation behind it. Fans of Plemons were taken aback by his slim appearance at the Cannes Film Festival, just before the season finale of Love & Death on HBO Max, where he stars alongside Elizabeth Olsen.

In interviews with GQ and Interview magazines, Plemons shared insights into his weight fluctuations throughout his career, the public's reaction to his physical changes, and his renewed commitment to health.

The actor's transformation is especially visible as he steps into the spotlight for his role in Killers of the Flower Moon, screened at the Cannes Film Festival, showcasing his trim physique.

Jesse Plemons, who has experienced changes in weight for various roles over the years, expressed surprise at the public's fascination with his body.

Reflecting on his weight gain for the 2015 film Black Mass, Plemons told GQ:

He added:

The actor humorously credited his weight loss to stopping the consumption of "terrible food," highlighting a simple yet effective approach to dietary change.

Looking ahead, Plemons is determined to maintain a healthy lifestyle. In a 2022 Interview magazine conversation, he detailed his decision to shed the "extra weight" for good.

His motivation was further spurred by a role requiring him to portray a soldier, leading him to adopt intermittent fasting and reduce carb intake. Jesse Plemons remarked on the simplicity of the process, emphasizing:

Beyond aesthetic or professional reasons, Jesse Plemons cited health benefits such as lowered blood pressure and improved ability to keep up with his young children as key factors in his decision.

Married to actress Kirsten Dunst, the couple share two sons, Ennis, 5, and James, 2. Plemons expressed the joy and beauty of watching their children grow, sharing with British GQ in 2021 the wonders of fatherhood and the family's adaptation to welcoming their second son.

As Jesse Plemons continues to capture audiences with his roles, his journey towards a healthier lifestyle not only showcases his dedication to his craft but also his commitment to wellbeing. It sets a positive example for fans and colleagues alike.

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How did Jesse Plemons lose weight so quickly? The actor reveals his strategy to shed pounds - Sportskeeda

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Bariatric surgery, also called weight loss surgery, leads to better blood sugar control and less medication use long-term in people with type 2 diabetes than non-surgical management with medications such as insulin and metformin, a new study found.Related video above: Am I a candidate for weight loss surgery?The study, published Tuesday in the journal JAMA, compared the blood sugar levels and medication regimens of 262 people who were randomly assigned to undergo weight loss surgery or non-surgical medical management, such as medication and lifestyle changes, for type 2 diabetes after seven to 12 years.Participants who had weight loss surgery had significantly lower blood sugar levels and were on fewer diabetes medications than those who did not undergo surgery, the researchers, from the University of Pittsburgh and other institutions, wrote. They were also more likely to achieve diabetes remission, which is defined as having non-diabetic blood sugar levels for at least three months without medication.This research "provides the most robust evidence to date of the long-term efficacy of bariatric surgery for improving control of type 2 diabetes," Dr. Thomas A. Wadden, a professor of psychology and former director of the Center for Weight and Eating Disorders at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, wrote in an editorial that was published along with the research.Weight loss surgery is a procedure in which the digestive tract is altered typically, the size of the stomach is reduced to help a person lose weight, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.The resulting reduction in food intake and neurohormonal changes also lower blood sugar and thereby treat type 2 diabetes, Dr. Marilyn Tan, chief of the Endocrinology Clinic at Stanford Health Care, who was not involved with the research, wrote in an email to CNN."Though it's a more invasive option than traditional diabetes medications and is a large commitment, it's also an investment in long-term health," Tan said.Most health-care providers don't currently recommend weight loss surgery for type 2 diabetes unless a person has a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher, and less than 1% of those people end up pursuing surgical treatment, according to the study.However, Wadden said in an email to CNN that the new findings support the expanded use of bariatric surgery for those with a BMI less than 35 who have trouble controlling their blood sugar with medical management alone."I hope these results will encourage more insurers and payers to cover bariatric surgery for patients with type 2 diabetes and a BMI of 30 to 34.9," he said. "It is a highly effective, long-term therapy for these individuals."Non-surgical medical management for type 2 diabetes involves lifestyle changes like reducing carbohydrate intake and increasing exercise, and using medications like metformin and occasionally insulin, Tan said. The goal is to lower hemoglobin A1c, the measure of average blood sugar levels over three months, below 7%."I've had multiple patients where despite hundreds of units of insulin a day, and despite their best efforts, they are unable to get their A1cs below 10%," Tan said. "Then, after bariatric surgery, they can maintain A1c levels below the diabetes range without any medications. They also note that with the weight loss, they can be more active."Further research is needed to compare the clinical outcomes and cost efficacy of weight loss surgery and the new generation of anti-diabetes medications, such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, the editorial says.The weight loss people have after surgery is key to improving diabetes outcomes as well as heart health, Tan said. Weight loss improves the body's response to insulin, reduces inflammation and helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol. It can also improve arthritis so people can exercise more, she added.The findings from this study also support the heart health benefits of weight loss surgery. People in the surgery group had significantly higher HDL or "good" cholesterol and lower triglycerides, a type of fat that can raise the risk of heart disease and stroke.Despite the benefits, people are often hesitant to have weight loss surgery because it is invasive and comes with some risks, Tan said.The study found that anemia (a lack of healthy red blood cells), bone fractures and gastrointestinal complications such as abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting were more common in people who had weight loss surgery.These known complications result from nutritional deficiencies that can happen when the digestive tract is surgically altered. People who have surgery must change their diet and take vitamins regularly to avoid these problems, Tan said.People who have the surgery can also gain back any weight lost, Tan added."Despite having the surgery, weight regain is possible if patients revert back to prior eating habits and quantities," she said.The study found that 51% of surgically treated participants achieved full remission of type 2 diabetes one year later, but only 18% maintained remission at seven years. This reduction in remission after surgery, which has been observed in previous research, is probably due to a combination of weight regain and the loss of insulin-producing cells over time, according to the editorial.Even short-term diabetes remission has benefits in terms of reducing diabetes-related complications, such as eye, kidney and peripheral blood vessel disease, the editorial says.Although bariatric surgery has a higher upfront cost than medical management about $33,000 before insurance coverage it is considered to be more cost-effective about five years after surgery, according to the editorial.

Bariatric surgery, also called weight loss surgery, leads to better blood sugar control and less medication use long-term in people with type 2 diabetes than non-surgical management with medications such as insulin and metformin, a new study found.

Related video above: Am I a candidate for weight loss surgery?

The study, published Tuesday in the journal JAMA, compared the blood sugar levels and medication regimens of 262 people who were randomly assigned to undergo weight loss surgery or non-surgical medical management, such as medication and lifestyle changes, for type 2 diabetes after seven to 12 years.

Participants who had weight loss surgery had significantly lower blood sugar levels and were on fewer diabetes medications than those who did not undergo surgery, the researchers, from the University of Pittsburgh and other institutions, wrote. They were also more likely to achieve diabetes remission, which is defined as having non-diabetic blood sugar levels for at least three months without medication.

This research "provides the most robust evidence to date of the long-term efficacy of bariatric surgery for improving control of type 2 diabetes," Dr. Thomas A. Wadden, a professor of psychology and former director of the Center for Weight and Eating Disorders at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, wrote in an editorial that was published along with the research.

Weight loss surgery is a procedure in which the digestive tract is altered typically, the size of the stomach is reduced to help a person lose weight, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

The resulting reduction in food intake and neurohormonal changes also lower blood sugar and thereby treat type 2 diabetes, Dr. Marilyn Tan, chief of the Endocrinology Clinic at Stanford Health Care, who was not involved with the research, wrote in an email to CNN.

"Though it's a more invasive option than traditional diabetes medications and is a large commitment, it's also an investment in long-term health," Tan said.

Most health-care providers don't currently recommend weight loss surgery for type 2 diabetes unless a person has a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher, and less than 1% of those people end up pursuing surgical treatment, according to the study.

However, Wadden said in an email to CNN that the new findings support the expanded use of bariatric surgery for those with a BMI less than 35 who have trouble controlling their blood sugar with medical management alone.

"I hope these results will encourage more insurers and payers to cover bariatric surgery for patients with type 2 diabetes and a BMI of 30 to 34.9," he said. "It is a highly effective, long-term therapy for these individuals."

Non-surgical medical management for type 2 diabetes involves lifestyle changes like reducing carbohydrate intake and increasing exercise, and using medications like metformin and occasionally insulin, Tan said. The goal is to lower hemoglobin A1c, the measure of average blood sugar levels over three months, below 7%.

"I've had multiple patients where despite hundreds of units of insulin a day, and despite their best efforts, they are unable to get their A1cs below 10%," Tan said. "Then, after bariatric surgery, they can maintain A1c levels below the diabetes range without any medications. They also note that with the weight loss, they can be more active."

Further research is needed to compare the clinical outcomes and cost efficacy of weight loss surgery and the new generation of anti-diabetes medications, such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, the editorial says.

The weight loss people have after surgery is key to improving diabetes outcomes as well as heart health, Tan said. Weight loss improves the body's response to insulin, reduces inflammation and helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol. It can also improve arthritis so people can exercise more, she added.

The findings from this study also support the heart health benefits of weight loss surgery. People in the surgery group had significantly higher HDL or "good" cholesterol and lower triglycerides, a type of fat that can raise the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Despite the benefits, people are often hesitant to have weight loss surgery because it is invasive and comes with some risks, Tan said.

The study found that anemia (a lack of healthy red blood cells), bone fractures and gastrointestinal complications such as abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting were more common in people who had weight loss surgery.

These known complications result from nutritional deficiencies that can happen when the digestive tract is surgically altered. People who have surgery must change their diet and take vitamins regularly to avoid these problems, Tan said.

People who have the surgery can also gain back any weight lost, Tan added.

"Despite having the surgery, weight regain is possible if patients revert back to prior eating habits and quantities," she said.

The study found that 51% of surgically treated participants achieved full remission of type 2 diabetes one year later, but only 18% maintained remission at seven years. This reduction in remission after surgery, which has been observed in previous research, is probably due to a combination of weight regain and the loss of insulin-producing cells over time, according to the editorial.

Even short-term diabetes remission has benefits in terms of reducing diabetes-related complications, such as eye, kidney and peripheral blood vessel disease, the editorial says.

Although bariatric surgery has a higher upfront cost than medical management about $33,000 before insurance coverage it is considered to be more cost-effective about five years after surgery, according to the editorial.

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Weight loss surgery has long-term benefits for people with diabetes, study finds - WVTM13 Birmingham

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The diets appeal lies in its flexibility and simplicity. The official website says followers can start their day by eating as many bananas as they like for breakfast, and drinking room-temperature water.

The diet also allows one snack a day, preferably Japanese confectionery or chocolates.

There are no recommended strict meal plans; for lunch and dinner, followers can eat what they like apart from the restricted items.

Want to live longer? 10 diet secrets of people living longest and healthiest

However, it is advised not to eat anything after 8pm, and not to have alcoholic or caffeinated drinks. Water is the suggested beverage of choice.

Those following the diet should stop eating when they are 80 per cent full a principle in keeping with the ancient Japanese concept of hara hachi bun me.

Residents of Okinawa one of the worlds five Blue Zones, where residents are known to live to 100 years or beyond practise this.

Indian sages living in the Himalayas were known to live a long, disease-free life in cold climes by following this discipline.

Nutritionists say the heart of the morning banana diet is healthy eating habits such as portion control, and eating nutritious foods while avoiding unhealthy ones.

Can a juice cleanse really reset your body? Experts weigh in

The diet is premised purely on common sense and a traditional Japanese lifestyle, which is considered healthy, says Delhi-based nutritionist Ruchika Sodhi.

Like any other diet, its success depends on an individuals overall lifestyle, metabolism and physical activity levels.

While it might be a good kick-start to a weight-loss journey, long-term success necessitates a more inclusive approach, like the inclusion of regular exercise and a balanced and diverse diet for optimal benefits, Sodhi adds.

As bananas are rich in fibre and nutrients, they offer a healthy morning boost of energy while contributing to a sustained feeling of fullness potentially curbing excessive food consumption, she says.

Bananas are a good source of potassium and soluble and insoluble fibre, which regulates body fat, fights toxins and energises the body. The fruit is also very low in cholesterol, sodium and saturated fats, she adds.

The fruits fibre, she explains, bulks up in the stomach, triggering a longer feeling of satiety. Bananas also have resistant starch, which begins to ferment in the digestive tract, she says, and accelerates fat burning.

Freeze your nuts, eat green bananas: 10 ways to max out nutrients in food

Sodhi recommends consulting a healthcare professional before making significant changes to ones diet and eating bananas daily.

Follow the diet only after this, to ensure that your weight-loss journey is safe, sustainable, and customised to your individual needs and health requirements.

Since bananas are also loaded with sugar, diabetics should avoid the diet, Sodhi says. An average banana has about 120 calories, so overindulging may result in weight gain instead of loss.

New Delhi-based homemaker Sushma Gupta, 33, who lost 8.5 kilograms (18.7 pounds) in a year by following the banana diet after her second pregnancy, says that it worked wonders for her.

Adopting the diet not only helped her lose weight, she says, but also helped improve her overall lifestyle, which had lacked discipline.

Inspired by her weight-loss success, two of Guptas friends also started following the banana diet but could not maintain it.

They gave up after two weeks. The diet seems simple, but what it actually entails is a lifestyle modification, which some people find tough to adhere to, Gupta says.

Short, intense workouts can be as healthy as 30 minutes of daily exercise

However, those who persevere are richly rewarded.

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The Morning Banana Diet is the latest weight-loss craze, but what is it? - South China Morning Post

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