How to maintain your weight after completing weight loss medications

Weight-loss medications can help regulate hormones to reduce hunger and make a person feel full faster. However, once these medications are discontinued, there is a risk of regaining lost weight.

Isabel Valdez, a physician assistant and associate professor of medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, offers advice on maintaining weight loss in a healthy manner after completing these medications.

“Stopping the medications means the hormones will no longer be adjusted. This can lead to increased hunger and food intake,” Valdez explained. “The key is to make sustainable changes that mirror the effects of the medication.”

Valdez recommends strategies such as:

• Controlling portion sizes and opting for smaller servings
• Using apps to track calories, servings, and weight
• Reducing sugar and calorie-dense foods
• Monitoring snacking frequency

Additionally, Valdez suggests staying hydrated, limiting alcohol consumption, exercising for about 150 minutes per week to burn calories, and prioritizing sleep for overall health and weight management.

According to Valdez, these medications can also be beneficial for conditions like sleep apnea, kidney disease complications, and heart disease prevention. However, they are not suitable for individuals with certain medical histories and should only be obtained from licensed healthcare providers.