Before you start an oral GLP-1 medication, it’s important to see your doctor for an exam and to discuss your health history, lifestyle, and goals, says Jean Huang, MD, a triple board-certified physician in internal medicine, endocrinology, and obesity medicine at Washington Health Medical Group in Fremont, California. She says it’s important to modify or treat anything that might affect your progress on a GLP-1, such as chronic stress or a medical condition like sleep apnea.
See Your Doctor
Getting lab work done before starting an oral GLP-1 will provide a baseline to track your progress on the medication. “It’s important to have recent blood work — within six months — for blood chemistries, liver function, kidney function, hemoglobin A1C (screening for prediabetes/diabetes), and a cholesterol panel,” says Tonia Yee Vinton, MD, a board-certified internist who specializes in obesity, metabolic syndrome, and preventive medicine at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.
Go for Blood Tests
GLP-1 medications can be pricey when paid out of pocket, so you’ll want to know beforehand whether the medication will be covered by your health insurance for your specific diagnosis. You may be able to find out by calling your insurance company or checking the drug manufacturer’s website.
Your doctor’s office can help with the process. “Your provider will need to submit a prior authorization with your insurance to obtain approval for an oral GLP,” says Dr. Vinton.
Get Health Insurance Approval
Healthy habits should start early, says Dr. Huang. “We want to set you up for success before you start the medicine.” Discuss personalized advice with your doctor, but this will likely include eating three balanced meals per day and adding more protein, which can help you maintain muscle during rapid weight loss. Dr. Ali also suggests minimizing simple carbohydrates (such as doughnuts, pastries, and sweetened beverages) and added sugars to encourage the body to burn fat stores.
Exercise advice can vary from person to person, based on physical ability, experience with exercise, and lifestyle. “The long-term goal is that everyone should exercise at least three or four times per week, at least 30 minutes each time. But not everyone’s there,” says Huang. “It doesn’t need to be an intensive exercise, but, at least, you should start with some walking or counting your steps.” If you haven’t been active or aren’t sure where to start, she recommends finding inspiration in the type of movement you may have enjoyed as a teen or young adult.
Create a Movement Routine
Make Healthy Food Choices
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