Dr. Debbie Brooks Discusses GLP-1 Weight Management on WJZ’s Wellness Wednesday
Dr. Debbie Brooks, Director of Gladstone Psychiatry and Wellness’s Weight Management Program, recently appeared on WJZ’s Wellness Wednesday segment to discuss the increasingly popular topic of GLP-1 medications.
Understanding GLP-1 Medications for Weight Management
Dr. Brooks explained that GLP-1s are an innovative approach to weight management that work through two primary mechanisms:
Physical Effects: These medications delay gastric emptying, meaning food remains in your stomach longer. This helps you feel full faster and maintain that feeling of satiety for an extended period.
Neurological Effects: GLP-1s also work in the brain by reducing hunger signals—a critical factor that has caused many traditional diets to fail in the past.
Why Traditional Diets Often Fail
According to Dr. Brooks, when you create a calorie deficit and begin losing weight, your body’s biology fights back. Your body responds by producing strong hunger hormones that trigger increased cravings and often lead to weight regain. GLP-1 medications work differently by addressing these biological hunger signals at their source.
Who Should Consider GLP-1 Medications?
GLP-1s are generally appropriate and safe for adults and adolescents with:
- Obesity
- Obesity-related medical conditions, such as sleep apnea or diabetes
However, Dr. Brooks emphasized that these medications aren’t suitable for everyone, making careful medical screening essential before starting treatment.
How GLP-1 Medications Are Administered
The administration method depends on the specific medication prescribed:
- Once-weekly injections
- Once-daily injections
- Daily oral pills
Dr. Brooks noted that the variety of options allows for individualized treatment plans based on each patient’s needs and preferences.
The Importance of Medical Supervision of GLP-1 Weight Management
With GLP-1 medications gaining widespread popularity, Dr. Brooks stressed the critical importance of working with qualified healthcare providers. When GLP-1 medications are taken without proper medical oversight, serious concerns can arise.
Proper medical supervision ensures:
- Careful screening before starting treatment
- Monitoring of side effects
- Assessment of mental health
- Management of pre-existing medical conditions
- Professional guidance when stopping, starting, or changing doses
Comprehensive Care at Gladstone Psychiatry and Wellness
Gladstone Psychiatry and Wellness offers comprehensive weight management services with the expertise and personalized care needed to safely navigate GLP-1 treatment. Gladstone’s approach ensures that each patient receives individualized attention throughout their weight management journey.
For more information about Gladstone’s Weight Management Program and to learn whether GLP-1 medications might be right for you, visit gladstonepsych.com or contact our office to schedule a consultation.
And if you missed Dr. Brooks on WJZ, you can catch the replay on our YouTube channel.
Wellness Wednesday on WJZ is brought to you by Gladstone Psychiatry and Wellness—care that meets you where you are.
