Everything you need to know about weight loss drugs
Metabolism, weight loss, and the science behind midlife health with Professor Michael Cowley from Monash University.
It's that time of year again—the gyms are packed, everyone's talking about their new diet, and we’re all vowing to be our best selves in 2025. But let’s face it, for those of us in midlife, weight loss can feel like an uphill battle, no matter how many resolutions we make. So, what’s really going on with our bodies? And could the buzzworthy weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, Mounjaro and Wegovy be the game-changer they’re hyped up to be?
In this episode, I sit down with Professor Michael Cowley, a leading physiologist and weight loss expert from Monash University, to separate the myths from the facts. We dive into what actually happens to your metabolism as you age, how these drugs work, and what they’re really doing to your body. Whether you’re curious about the science, considering your options, or just want a deeper understanding of how to tackle weight gain in midlife, this conversation is a must-listen.
LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:
Highlights of the show:
Why metabolism slows in midlife
Professor Cowley explains how ageing leads to muscle loss and reduced energy expenditure, making it harder to maintain weight. For women, menopause accelerates this change, significantly lowering metabolic rates due to hormonal shifts.Building and preserving muscle is key
The science is clear: muscle mass is critical for maintaining metabolism, bone health, and overall well-being. Activities like strength training, running, and even sprinting are recommended to counteract natural muscle decline.The truth about weight-loss medications like Ozempic
These groundbreaking drugs reduce appetite and delay gastric emptying, resulting in significant weight loss. However, they must be paired with exercise to prevent muscle loss, and their effects last only while the medication is being taken.Beyond weight loss: surprising health benefits
Medications like semaglutide show promise in reducing inflammation, lowering cardiovascular risks, and possibly delaying conditions like Alzheimer's. Professor Cowley emphasises their potential to enhance healthspan—the period of life spent in good health.Why muscle matters more than ever
Muscle mass is a key predictor of healthy ageing. Professor Cowley advises listeners to prioritise building and maintaining muscle now to avoid limitations later in life.
This episode dives deep into the science of metabolism and weight loss, providing practical advice and insights for thriving in midlife and beyond.
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At the end of the day people are just generally lazy. I hear all the same excuses at work I don't have time to exercise bla bla, get up earlier. The only thing stopping your exercising before is because you are lazy . News flash you don't wake up one morning and go Oh Shit I am fat. You put on 3-5kg you do something about it straight away too many people wait until they are 15-25kg everything and then the penny drops. From there it would be an up hill battle.
The people I feel for the most are the obese teenagers you see walking around Westfield with there parents, one look at the parents and you think what hope has that poor kid got.
There's no doubt they have their place, but for people looking to lose weight in general, this is not a long term solution (as the Professor alluded to). It doesn't teach people how to lose weight sustainably & keep it off through what they eat & the right exercise for them - & yes, it takes a bit longer as you age!