However, these can be common effects of rapid weight loss, as significant changes bring about a lot. We address this much-discussed topic to debunk myths. The consequences of weight loss are truly attributable to losing weight. While medication can have side effects in some cases, these are separate from the effects of losing weight. In this blog, we discuss the effects that weight loss can have, both physical and mental, positive and negative.
Physical Consequences of Weight Loss
In many cases, weight loss leads to improved blood pressure, better cholesterol levels, and a more stable blood sugar level. Additionally, it can relieve stress on the joints, which is especially beneficial for people with joint conditions, or if you are already prone to injuries. When you lose a lot of weight in a short period, for example, through weight loss medication, it is important to realize that you must also actively engage in strength training and healthy eating. If you don't, there's a risk of losing muscle mass, developing vitamin/mineral deficiencies, and experiencing a hormonal imbalance. Muscle loss slows down the resting metabolism, making it harder to maintain long-term weight loss, and often leads to more joint complaints. A vitamin deficiency can result in hair loss and fatigue. This has nothing to do with the medication but rather with your lifestyle.
Potential Mental Consequences of Weight Loss
In addition to the physical changes, you may experience positive mental and emotional benefits. Increasing your self-confidence often contributes to a stronger self-image. People around you may notice your new energy and appearance and approach you in a new, positive way. This can bring new dynamics and growth to relationships. While it's important to remain conscious of your relationship with food and exercise, a healthy approach can lead to a deeper appreciation for your body and a balanced lifestyle. Achieving your goals can be a deep-rooted motivation to continue making healthy choices, ultimately contributing to a long-lasting sense of well-being. On the other hand, weight loss can also have a negative effect on relationships, among other things. For example, there can be jealousy and a shift in interests.
Weight Loss and Self-Image
Weight loss can have various effects on self-image. In many cases, people feel better by seeing the physical effects. In other cases, this feeling of satisfaction may not materialize. People who have had a distorted self-image from a young age may retain a negative self-image. For this, it is necessary to actively work on improving mental well-being in addition to losing weight. In the worst case, people may suffer from Body Dysmorphic Disorder. This condition ensures that, no matter how much someone changes externally, they will never be satisfied. This psychological challenge means that someone constantly sets unrealistic expectations for their appearance, which negatively affects overall well-being. This shows that weight loss is not always roses and sunshine. So, pay close attention to yourself, both physically and mentally.
Are you interested in weight loss with medication and want to know more? Book a free consultation with one of our doctors.
Nicolette studied Medicine at the University of Amsterdam. After conducting clinical research for several years into the development of diabetes in overweight individuals, she spent years guiding people with extreme obesity before and after gastric bypass surgery, with a strong focus on lifestyle coaching. With the advent of various weight-loss supporting medications, Nicolette also specialized in this area. Her combination of medical knowledge, scientific background, and years of practical experience enables her to find the most suitable and effective treatment for you. According to Nicolette, lifestyle changes are crucial in achieving and maintaining weight loss. Furthermore, a healthy lifestyle is not only important for weight reduction but also leads to an improvement in physical and mental health. "I believe that sustainable weight loss revolves around the right balance between medical support and lifestyle change. Medication can be a powerful aid, but real change occurs when we work together on habits that suit you and that you can maintain in the long term. Through my years of experience with people living with overweight and obesity, I know that every story is different. What works for one person may not work for another. That is why I take the time to listen to your situation and together find the most appropriate treatment – so that you not only lose weight but also feel truly better, both physically and mentally. Weight loss goes beyond a number on the scale. It's about energy, health, self-confidence, and quality of life. And you don't make that journey alone with us."
