by Metropol | November 26, 2025 8:33 am
GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone which helps to stabilise blood sugar levels, support healthy appetite by sending signals of fullness to your brain, and slows digestion so you feel satisfied for longer. Essentially, it can regulate weight. Manufactured GLP-1 is available in injection-form, initially designed to help people with type 2 diabetes lower their blood sugar. New Zealand has recently joined the growing number of countries offering GLP-1 weight loss injections such as Ozempic and Wegovy – which are hailed as a revolutionary breakthrough in tackling obesity, with patients typically losing between 10% to 15% of weight during their first few months on the medication. Additionally, widespread media attention and endorsements by celebrities such as Meghan Trainor have increased demand.
According to the Ministry of Health’s statistics, one in three adults (33.8%) in New Zealand experiences obesity. So, could the GLP-1 vaccine be the solution? Exercise New Zealand is urging Kiwis and health professionals to understand the hidden health risks that could come with this quick-fix solution, particularly the alarming loss of muscle mass, and long term increased health costs – and instead adopt a holistic approach to shedding weight. While effective in controlling obesity and diabetes, new research shows a significant downside: rapid loss of lean muscle mass, even in young users. “People are losing fat, yes, but they’re also losing muscle, which is vital for long-term health,” says Richard Beddie, CEO of Exercise New Zealand. “This isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about strength, mobility, immunity, and long-term cardiovascular health.” Recent studies suggest that GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) effectively reduce weight by suppressing appetite, however up to 60% of weight lost can be of lean muscle mass, not fat.
Low muscle mass has been linked to increased risks of heart disease, insulin resistance, falls, and early frailty. Reduced strength can also limit mobility and quality of life. Entering adulthood with poor muscle reserves makes later-life decline faster and harder to reverse.
Like any medication, there are advantages and drawbacks. Evidence suggests manufactured GLP-1 can lower blood pressure, improve lipid disorders and fatty liver disease, and reduce the risk of heart and kidney disease. However, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, and headaches are common side effects. ‘Ozempic face’ – a hollowed or aged appearance, caused by rapid weight loss, is also standard. “It’s clear that drugs, just like dieting, seldom work by themselves in the long term,” says Richard. “Weight loss shouldn’t come at the cost of your strength, vitality, and future health.” He adds, “GLP-1 drugs should come with a warning label: Must be used in conjunction with a strength-based exercise routine.”
As Professor Kamila Hawthorne, the chair of the Royal College of GPs, states, “Weight loss drugs should not be seen as a silver bullet for weight loss – they do not come without risk, and there is no one-size fits all approach to tackling obesity.”
In the local market, supplement and beauty brand Jeuneora identified the hormone’s potential for women navigating perimenopause and other hormonal changes. GLP-1 is your body’s natural craving controller, the brand says, and supporting its levels is a long game. The supplement Hormone Hero utilises clinically studied ingredients at science-backed doses to support women of all age experiencing hormonal changes.
With the local market just tapping into the global trend, remember to do your research and consult a healthcare practitioner before engaging in GLP-1 medication or weight-loss strategy.
Source URL: https://metropol.co.nz/weighing-up-options/
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