Scott Keatley RD CDN

In the article "Experts Discuss: Do Weight Loss Drugs Like Ozempic Hold The Answer to Long-Term Weight Management?", Scott Keatley, RD, provides insightful contributions that emphasize a holistic approach to weight management. He believes that weight loss medications should be integrated into a broader strategy that includes lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. He underlines that the medications alone aren't enough to achieve long-term success and emphasizes the importance of behavioral changes.

Keatley also highlights the importance of maintaining muscle mass during weight loss treatment. Since muscle is metabolically active and challenging to regain once lost, he stresses that individuals using these medications must ensure sufficient protein intake and follow a balanced diet to preserve muscle mass while reducing excess fat.

Regarding potential side effects, Keatley discusses common issues associated with weight loss medications, such as gastrointestinal disturbances and mood changes, which can be linked to dosage. He emphasizes the importance of healthcare providers closely monitoring patients to identify and manage any adverse reactions during treatment.

Keatley raises concern about the risk of weight loss drugs being abused, particularly by individuals prone to eating disorders. He recommends implementing safeguards like nutritional counseling before prescribing the medications and administering them in a clinical setting to minimize misuse.

Overall, Keatley stresses the importance of not relying solely on weight loss drugs without lifestyle changes, cautioning that this could result in long-term dependence on these medications. His contributions emphasize the necessity of comprehensive strategies that combine medications with meaningful lifestyle changes to achieve sustainable weight management.