Debunking Weight Loss Medication Myths: Insights from Three Experienced Dietitians

by Sasha Tran

Have you been thinking of talking to your doctor about weight loss medications? With new drugs on the market such as Ozempic (Wegovy), Mounjaro, Contrave, etc. there’s been a lot of buzz. Ozempic and Contrave have been around for years as weight loss medications. Wegovy since 2021 and Contrave since 2016. Mounjaro is a more recent addition and has recently been approved for use as a weight loss medication (2023).

But are these medications effective just on their own without other lifestyle changes? Are these medications the quick-fix solutions that they’re made out to be? And what are your options for the type of medication you take?

Let’s break down these myths and get the facts straight based on the expertise of three registered dietitians: Christina Dupont, Serena Benali, and Liz Daeninck.

Christina Dupont MSc, RD, CDE: Embrace A Comprehensive Approach

You might think that weight loss medications can replace the need for diet and exercise. However, this is not the case. Weight loss medications can aid in the goal of losing weight. Still, they are most effective in a comprehensive approach that includes dietary modifications, physical activity, and behavioural changes.

Serena Benali RD: No Quick Fixes Here

Are you under the impression that weight loss medications are a quick fix that requires no effort on your part? The truth is that weight loss medications can be effective for some however, sustainable weight loss requires behaviour change and ongoing lifestyle modifications.

Liz Daeninck MS, RD: Exploring All Options

Think that Ozempic or other GLP-1 (glucagon-like-peptide-1) are the only effective options? Medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro are heavily marketed and expensive. There are other options available that are safe and effective. To figure out what will work best for you and your health conditions, it is best to consult with a medical provider who specializes in weight management – they are best suited to assist you in choosing the best option for you, whether it be medications or other options. Regardless of whether medication is a part of the weight loss strategy, a registered dietitian is going to be an integral part of your health care team to support you with developing healthy lifelong dietary habits.

Practice Self Compassion

According to Liz, When learning something new you’re bound to make a mistake but it’s important to not give up on yourself. This is exactly when working with a registered dietitian and therapist can help support you through these challenges that come along with changing eating behaviours.

The Role of Dietitians in Your Weight Loss Journey

As you can see dietitians are important in your weight loss journey. Dietitians not only provide you with evidence-based dietary advice and help you develop and maintain healthy eating habits, they also give ongoing support.

When it comes to weight loss medications dietitians help navigate the difficulties. They can help manage the side effects, ensure that your dietary habits suit your medication regimen, and help you develop a positive relationship with food.

The Role of Behaviour Change Counselling in Your Weight Loss Journey

There is more to your weight loss journey than simply taking weight loss medications. While you have to eat right and maintain a level of physical activity, it’s important to also consider the psychology of our eating behaviours. Emotions can influence our eating decisions, and mental health professionals can assist in identifying and managing such behaviours.

Dietitians on Why Working Alongside a Dietitian Can Maximize Results

Christina Dupont MSc, RD, CDE: Imagine having a personal guide who tailors dietary modifications to your specific needs and preferences. That’s what working with a registered dietitian (RD) can do for you – they provide ongoing support, guidance, and education. Having this professional partnership can be a key factor in making lasting lifestyle changes that work alongside your medication for optimal weight management success. A registered dietitian will provide a tailor-made plan that’s customized to your objectives.

Serena Benali RD: Working with a registered dietitian plays a critical role in helping you build sustainable habits. In addition to working with a registered dietitian, working with a psychologist can aid in overcoming the mental and emotional challenges related to weight loss.

Your Path to Your Best Weight

Embarking on a sustainable weight loss journey doesn’t just include finding the right medications. It requires a comprehensive approach along with lifestyle changes and working with a registered dietitian. It’s important to know your options for weight loss medications as there are several effective and safe alternatives beyond the heavily marketed ones.

A successful weight loss journey comes from a balanced and informed approach. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to do this journey alone. You can get professional support from dietitians, psychologists, and fitness professionals which can make all the difference.

About the Dietitians in This Article:

Christina Dupont MSc, RD, CDE

Registered Dietitian, Owner
Eat Well for Life – Registered Dietitian Services
Location: Welland, Ontario
Service Areas: Ontario
Website: www.eatwellforlife.ca
Dietitian Directory Profile: https://dietitiandirectory.com/dietitian/christinadupont/
Practice Areas: Allergies & Intolerances, Diabetes, Digestive Health, Emotional Eating, Heart Health, Intuitive Eating, Kidney Disease, Mindful Eating, Older Adult Nutrition, PCOS, Pediatrics, Pregnancy & Breastfeeding, Vegan & Vegetarian, Weight-Inclusive, Weight Loss Drugs, Cholesterol & Fatty Liver

Serena Benali, RD

Registered Dietitian
In Good Nutrition
Locations: Edmonton, Calgary, Halifax, Saskatchewan
Service Areas: Alberta, Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan
Website: www.ingoodnutrition.com
Dietitian Directory Profile: https://dietitiandirectory.com/dietitian/serenabenali/
Practice Areas: Allergies & Intolerances, Diabetes, Digestive Health, Eating Disorders, Emotional Eating, Heart Health, Intuitive Eating, Ketogenic & Low Carbohydrate, Kidney Disease, Mental Health, Mindful Eating, Older Adult Nutrition, Oncology, PCOS, Pediatrics, Pregnancy & Breastfeeding, Sports Nutrition, Vegan & Vegetarian, Weight Loss, Weight-Inclusive, Weight Loss Drugs, Meal Planning

Liz Daeninck MS, RD

Owner of Valentis Wellness; Nutritionist/Dietitian/Exercise Physiologist
Credentials: MS (exercise science and nutrition), RDN; Certificate of Training in Adult Weight Management
Valentis Wellness
Location: Denver Metro Area, CO
Service Areas: Colorado, Illinois
Website: www.ValentisWellness.com
Dietitian Directory Profile: https://dietitiandirectory.com/dietitian/vwellness/
Practice Areas: Weight management, Weight loss surgery (pre and post nutrition management), Medication assisted weight loss, Gut health, Emotional Eating, Intuitive Eating, Low Carbohydrate, Mindful Eating, PCOS, Sports Nutrition, Diabetes, Vegan & Vegetarian

Use Dietitian Directory to find a Registered Dietitian experienced in the following areas of concern.

About the Author: Sasha Tran is a graduate of the University of Alberta Bachelors Degree in Nutrition and Food Sciences

Images: From Unsplash and Pexels

Reviewed by: Lindsey McGregor, RD

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