Why Diet and Exercise Alone Often Aren’t Enough
For years, the advice given to people living with obesity has been frustratingly simple: “Calories in, Calories out”. [1]
While nutrition and physical activity are vital to good health, many patients find that no matter how disciplined they are, weight loss doesn’t last.
This isn’t about weakness or willpower. It’s about biology. And now, science is helping us understand why traditional methods alone often don’t work — and what can help instead.
You’re not alone. Support is available.
The Science of Weight Regain
When you lose weight, your body doesn’t just sit back and accept it. Instead, it actively works against your efforts:
-Hunger hormones like ghrelin increase — making you feel hungrier.
-Fullness hormones like GLP-1 and leptin decrease — so you feel less satisfied.
-Your metabolism slows down — meaning you burn fewer calories at rest.
-The brain fights to return to a “set point” weight — often higher than what’s healthy.
This is why studies show that most people regain the weight of losing it through diet alone. [2]
Modern Medicine Has Entered the Chat
Today, international medical bodies — including the World Health Organization (WHO) — recognise obesity as a chronic, relapsing disease. [3]
That means we now treat obesity with the same seriousness as we do conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes — using evidence-based medical treatments alongside lifestyle changes.
One of the biggest breakthroughs? GLP-1 receptor agonists — a new class of medicines that target the biology behind appetite and weight regulation.
Have questions about managing weight with medical support? Our expert can help guide you.
GLP-1 Medicines: What They Do and Why They Work
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a natural hormone that helps regulate hunger and fullness. In people with obesity, this system often doesn’t work well.
Semaglutide — a GLP-1 receptor agonist — mimics this hormone to help:
-Reduce hunger and food cravings
-Slow down stomach emptying, so you feel full for longer
-Help your brain better control appetite
-Improve blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol
What the Research Shows
In clinical trials [4], semaglutide has delivered remarkable results:
-Patients lost an average of 15–20% of body weight over 68 weeks, compared to 2–3% with lifestyle changes alone.
-Improvements were also seen in diabetes control, heart health markers, and overall quality of life
What This Means for You
This is a major shift in how we care for people living with obesity:
-You are not to blame — obesity is a medical condition, not a personal failure
-There are real, proven options beyond diet and exercise
-Hope is here — long-term, sustainable weight loss is possible
How to Get Started
If you’ve been trying everything and still struggling, here’s what you can do:
-Talk to your doctor — Ask if a medical obesity treatment might be right for you.
-Explore your options — GLP-1 therapies like semaglutide aren’t for everyone, but may be suitable for many.
-Personalised care is key — Your treatment should be tailored to your medical history, weight, goals, and health risks.
Unlock a Personalized Weight Management Plan— with Expert Support
The Road Ahead
The future of obesity care looks bright. With better science, advanced medications, and a kinder approach, we can reduce complications like:
-Type 2 diabetes
-Heart disease
-Sleep apnea
-Fatty liver disease
-Joint problems
Final Thoughts
Obesity is not about laziness or lack of discipline. It is a chronic medical condition that deserves evidence-based treatment, just like any other health issue.
If diet and exercise haven’t worked for you, don’t give up. Talk to your healthcare provider about all your options — including GLP-1 medicines like semaglutide.
Obesity care today isn’t just about restriction — it’s about science, support, and sustainable health.
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] Hall KD, Farooqi IS, Friedman JM, Klein S, Loos RJF, Mangelsdorf DJ, et al. The energy balance model of obesity: beyond calories in, calories out. Am J Clin Nutr. 2022 May 1;115(5):1243–54. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35134825/
[2] 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/
[3] 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
[4] 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/