Obesity expert reveals the best way to decide if GLP-1s are right for you

Some experts believe that anyone could benefit fromGLP-1 medications, as the popular drugs have become more widespread and accessible.

Others, however, warn that the decision to take the diabetes andweight-loss drugsshould be based on health history and potential risks.So, how do you know if you’re a good candidate?

Rocio Salas-Whalen, M.D., author of the new book “Weightless,” shared that the best way to determine the suitability of a GLP-1 is through body composition testing.

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Most people associate success with the number on the scale, but this won’t tell you what’s happening withyour health, according to the New York City-based expert.

“Maybe you were losing muscle, maybe you lost water, maybe you lost a little bit of fat,” she said.“Losing weight on the scale doesn’t translate to being healthy.It’s more about body composition.”

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The number on the scale can’t disclose the makeup of muscle and fat in the body, an expert said.(iStock)

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Body composition machines are often found atdoctor’s officesand even some gyms.The technology scans the body to measure the following three markers of health.

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• Skeletal muscle mass
• Body fat percentage
• Visceral fat

These measurements can pinpoint what in your body could make you sick or keep you healthy, according to Salas-Whalen.

Body composition screenings look for three markers of health: skeletal muscle mass, body fat percentage and visceral fat.(iStock)

“And then I also want to see your percentage of body fat, meaning what percentage of your weight is fat.”

This percentage should be around 28% or below for women and 20% or lower for men, according to Salas-Whalen.

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Skeletal muscle mass is another important marker for health, encompassing the muscle that is built throughdiet and exercise.

“Muscle is an anti-inflammatory organ,” the expert said.“It also decreases insulin resistance … [and] consumes 80% of your glucose.”

Skeletal muscle mass is an important marker for health, encompassing the muscle that is built through diet and exercise.(iStock)

“If you have a good body composition, rest assured that you’re getting all the benefits that somebody on a GLP-1 would,” she said.“It’s not safe to use a medication that you don’t have a requirement for.”

Salas-Whalen said it’s important to “know your numbers” after being evaluated for body composition, as the results may be surprising.

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“Everypatient’s journeyis going to be different,” she said.“But I can tell you most people need it rather than don’t… a lot of people will actually benefit from a GLP-1 than not.”

The World Health Organization conditionally recommends long-term use of GLP-1 and related therapies (liraglutide, semaglutide, tirzepatide, etc.) for the treatment of adults living with obesity (BMI of 30 or above) as part of obesity care.It does not endorse these as general-use drugs for everyone irrespective ofhealth status.