“Fat Jabs” - the good, the bad and how to use (and come off) them properly
The Good
GLP‑1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide (marketed as Wegovy or Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Zepbound/Mounjaro) have taken the world by storm. Originally developed for Type 2 diabetes, they’ve proven exceptionally powerful in obesity treatment, enabling weight reductions of around 15–20% of body weight in clinical trials. Simply put, it has made weight loss possible for millions who were otherwise not succeeding - with all the health and other benefits a lower body fat implies including cardiovascular health, liver function, and even mental health.
The Bad
These drugs reduce your appetite which means you consume fewer calories and force your body to burn fat for energy. Just ‘eating less’ - sometimes dramatically less - can, however, cause issues and fails to address the reason for the unhealthy weight in the first place. People taking or considering these drugs should be aware of the following risks:
1. Nutritional deficiencies
Emerging evidence indicates that within 6 to 12 months of using GLP‑1 agonists, 12.7% of users are diagnosed with nutritional deficiencies—and this rises to 22.4% within a year—with vitamin D deficiency being especially common
2. Loss of muscle mass (lean body mass)
Rapid weight loss can come at a cost: studies from the American Diabetes Association estimate that 15–40% of total weight loss may consist of lean body or muscle mass. Others suggest even higher losses—between 20% and 50% of lean mass—much more than what’s typically seen with traditional diet-and-exercise approaches. Lean mass is critical for health and longevity (not to mention stregth) and should be preseved to the extent humanly possible - if not increased!
3. Weight regain once you stop
There is growing body of evidence that stopping GLP‑1 therapy often leads to rapid weight regain. Up to 95% of users regain weight within months of discontinuing the medication. That’s because the underlying behavioural and physiological drivers of weight gain such as habits, diet and lifestyle have not been addressed.
It is now abundantly clear: the notion that one can just take the shot and not do anything else is misguided at best.
What to do about it
The missing link? Establishing positive, sustainable habits while on medication. That means:
Eating healthily, not merely restricting calories ensuring nutrient-dense, balanced meals rich in protein, fibre, and micronutrients.
Prioritising resistance training and regular movement to preserve lean muscle and metabolic health.
Addressing hydration, sleep, stress, and overall well-being, not just food intake.
Addressing the psychological and behavioural roots of weight gain, such as emotional eating, poor routines, or uninformed food choices.
How Vyrsion can help?
By pairing these treatments with a purpose-built Vyrsion programme designed to create change that lasts, including:
Fitness & strength training
Resistance and functional training components preserve (and build) lean muscle mass, protecting metabolism and physical function during a calorie deficit. The benefits of course go far beyond muscle mass and include huge mental health benefits.Nutrient-smart meal planning
Guided eating plans ensure you’re getting sufficient protein and other key nutrients - crucial for health, energy and preserving muscle.Behavioural and psychological support
Vyrsion addresses the mindset dimensions: habits, emotional triggers, and long-term lifestyle changes.Accountability and support
Having the right people in your corner who are truly invested in your success is hugely beneficial in maintaining sustainable change.
In summary
Therapies like Ozempic and Mounjaro create the physiological conditions for weight loss where it is not possible otherwise; Vyrsion helps ensure that loss is healthy and sustainable.
