A New Way of Looking at Obesity
For many years, obesity was wrongly seen as a simple issue of self-control. People were often told to “eat less and move more” — and if they couldn’t lose weight, it was assumed they just weren’t trying hard enough. This kind of thinking caused guilt, shame, and silence — not support or solutions.
Thankfully, science now tells us a different story. Today, major medical organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) officially recognize obesity as a chronic, relapsing disease — not just a lifestyle issue [1].
In other words, obesity isn’t just about habits. It’s also about biology, hormones, genetics, and environment [2], which can make losing weight extremely difficult without medical help.
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Why Do We Gain (and Regain) Weight?
Obesity doesn’t have one single cause. It involves a complex mix of [2,3]:
-Hormones and brain signals that control hunger
-Genetic predisposition
-Environmental factors like food availability and stress
One key hormone involved is GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite and makes you feel full. In many people with obesity, this system doesn’t work properly. That means they often feel hungrier, crave more food, and regain weight even after dieting.
If you’ve ever lost weight only to gain it back — you’re not alone. Studies show that after dieting, the body often slows down metabolism and increases hunger, making it very difficult to maintain weight loss without extra support [4].
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How Treatment Has Evolved
Now that we understand obesity is a medical condition, doctors are taking a more well-rounded, science-based approach. Treatment plans may include a multi-layered approach:
-Healthy lifestyle changes – nutrition, physical activity, sleep, and stress management
-Medications – to help regulate hunger and support weight loss
-Mental health support – to address emotional eating and the effects of weight stigma
-Surgery – for those with severe obesity when other treatments haven’t worked
One of the biggest breakthroughs in recent years is a new class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic the natural GLP-1 hormone.
What Is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that can help people
-Lose significant weight — and keep it off
-Improved blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, and reduced the risk of heart problems
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What the research shows
In large clinical trials [5], patients taking semaglutide along with healthy lifestyle changes:
-Lost an average of 15–20% of their body weight over 68 weeks
-Saw improvements in blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, and other heart health markers
Note: Like all medications, semaglutide should only be used under medical supervision.
Why This Matters for You
Understanding that obesity is a disease — and not your fault — can be a huge relief. It shifts the focus from blame to treatment.
Instead of feeling frustrated or ashamed, you can start asking the right questions:
-Could my weight issues be linked to hormones or metabolism?
-What are the medical options for me, including GLP-1 medications?
-How can lifestyle, mental health, and medication work together?
-What risks or side effects should I know about?
Everyone’s body is different. Our expert can help guide you.
The Road Ahead
The future of obesity care looks bright. If you’re living with obesity, remember:
-It’s not your fault
-It’s not just about willpower
-Effective, medical treatments exist
Final Thoughts
If you’re struggling with weight despite your best efforts, consider the latest medical options, including GLP-1 therapies. Together, we can treat obesity for what it truly is — a chronic disease that deserves serious care and compassion.
Disclaimer: This article is an editorial initiative by Tata 1mg for Novo Nordisk. The information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Weight loss medications use should be individualized and should be taken under guidance of a doctor. Please note that Tata 1mg does not endorse any brands and is not responsible for their efficacy.
References
[1] World Health Organization. One in eight people are now living with obesity [Internet]. Geneva: WHO; 2024 Mar 1 [cited 2025 Jul 2]. Available from: https://www.who.int/news/item/01-03-2024-one-in-eight-people-are-now-living-with-obesity
[2] Albuquerque D, Nóbrega C, Manco L, Padez C. The contribution of genetics and environment to obesity. Br Med Bull. 2017 Sep 1;123(1):159–73. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28910990/
[3] Sominsky L, Spencer SJ. Eating behavior and stress: a pathway to obesity. Front Psychol. 2014 May 13;5:434. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24860541/
[4] Sumithran P, Prendergast LA, Delbridge E, Purcell K, Shulkes A, Kriketos A, Proietto J. Long-term persistence of hormonal adaptations to weight loss. N Engl J Med. 2011 Oct 27;365(17):1597–604. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22029981/
[5] Wilding JPH, Batterham RL, Calanna S, Davies M, Van Gaal LF, Lingvay I, McGowan BM, Rosenstock J, Tran MTD, Wadden TA, Wharton S, Yokote K, Zeuthen N, Kushner RF; STEP 1 Study Group. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. N Engl J Med. 2021 Mar 18;384(11):989-1002. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33567185/