Changing the Narrative: Biology, Not Blame
For many years, obesity wasn’t seen as a medical condition. Instead, it was often blamed on personal choices — poor diet, lack of exercise, or not having enough willpower. People living with obesity were judged, shamed, and told to “just try harder.”
But science has shown us something different: obesity is not simply about lifestyle — it’s a complex, chronic disease influenced by biology, hormones, and the brain.
That misunderstanding created one of healthcare’s biggest gaps: the lack of real medical support for people living with obesity.
Then came Semaglutide. This medication has helped shift the conversation — from blame and stigma to science and support.
Have questions about managing weight with medical support? Our expert can help guide you.
Why Lifestyle Alone Isn’t Always Enough
Healthy eating, regular exercise, sleep, and stress management are all important. But for many people with obesity, these efforts aren’t enough to achieve long-term weight loss.
Here’s why, according to research [1]:
-Hunger hormones (like ghrelin) increase after weight loss, making you feel hungrier.
-Fullness hormones (like GLP-1 and leptin) decrease, making it harder to feel satisfied.
-Your brain defends a “set point” weight, slowing metabolism to regain lost weight.
So when someone says, “I diet, I exercise, but the weight always comes back,” they’re not failing — their biology is fighting back.
Struggling with Weight Loss?
Discover what’s really going on inside your body. Start with a metabolic assessment to understand your unique needs. Book your test today
The GLP-1 Breakthrough
A major step forward came with the discovery of how GLP-1, a natural hormone, helps regulate appetite and blood sugar.
Semaglutide medications mimic GLP-1, helping people feel fuller sooner, reduce cravings, and develop healthier eating habits.
Get Genuine Medicines from Tata 1mg. Add to Cart.
What the Research Says
Some of the largest studies in obesity medicine have tested semaglutide’s effects:
-STEP Trials: People using semaglutide with lifestyle changes lost an average of 15–20% of their body weight in 68 weeks. Those using lifestyle changes alone lost about 2–3%. [2]
-Heart Health: Semaglutide reduces the risk factors for heart disease. [3]
These results are not about “cosmetic” weight loss — they’re about improving long-term health.
How the Medical Conversation Has Evolved
Before medications like Semaglutide, we underestimated how complex obesity really is.
Now, the conversation is changing:
-Obesity is Recognised as a Disease
Leading health organisations like the WHO classify obesity as a chronic disease — not just a lifestyle issue. [4]
-Treatments Are Evidence-Based
GLP-1 medications are now part of global guidelines for long-term weight management.
-Patients Are More Empowered
People are asking better questions — not just “How many calories?” but “What’s going on with my metabolism and hormones?”
These changes are reshaping how obesity is discussed, understood, and treated — worldwide.
Why It’s Important to Talk to Your Doctor
While semaglutide medications can be life-changing, they’re not for everyone. That’s why it’s essential to have a personalised discussion with a doctor.
Things a doctor will consider:
-Your BMI and waist circumference
-Your metabolic health (e.g., diabetes, cholesterol, blood pressure)
-Your medical history and safety needs
-Your personal health goals
For some, lifestyle changes and counselling may be enough. For others, medications or even surgery may be recommended. The best approach is always individualised care.
Unlock a Personalized Weight Management Plan— with Expert Support
Looking to the Future
By 2035, around 1.9 billion adults—approximately 25% of the world’s population—is expected to be living with obesity [5]. Without proper treatment, rates of diabetes, heart disease, and liver disease will continue to rise.
But there’s reason to be hopeful.
Medications containing Semagliutide represent more than a new treatment option — they’ve changed the entire conversation. They’ve moved us from judgment to understanding, from stigma to science.
Final Thoughts
Obesity isn’t about lack of willpower — it’s a chronic condition shaped by complex biology.
Thanks to advances like GLP-1 therapies, we now have powerful tools to help people lose weight and improve their overall health — safely and sustainably.
If you’ve been struggling despite your best efforts, don’t give up. Talk to your doctor about what’s possible.
The conversation has changed — and so can your care.
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] 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/
[2] 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/
[3] Available from: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-treatment-reduce-risk-serious-heart-problems-specifically-adults-obesity-or
[4] 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
[5] Ahmed SK, Mohammed RA. Obesity: Prevalence, causes, consequences, management, preventive strategies and future research directions. Metabolism Open. 2025;27:100375. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589936825000313