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Hindustan Times
8 hours ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
New weight-loss drug Wegovy is here, but is it a magical solution? Experts weigh in
The obsession with weight loss injections is still going strong. After the social media frenzy around Ozempic last year and celebrities such as Meghan Trainor, Lizzo, and Amy Schumer admitting to using it, and the buzz when Mounjaro (Elon Musk revealed he used it too!) arrived in India this March, there's a new contender on the block: Wegovy. Earlier this week (June 24), Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk launched this much-anticipated drug in India. But what makes it different from its predecessors, and why is everyone talking about it? Wegovy is designed for long-term weight management and to help reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events in people living with obesity. It comes in a sleek, once-weekly pen device with five dosing options: 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg, and a maintenance dose of 2.4 mg. New weight-loss drug Wegovy is here, but is it a magical solution? Experts weigh in(Photo: Adobe Stock) Similar to Ozempic and Mounjaro, this new weight loss drug is also a prescription-only medication intended for adults who are obese or overweight and also have at least one weight-related health condition, like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. 'The active ingredient in Wegovy is semaglutide, which is a synthetic version of a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). This hormone is released in the gut in response to food intake and helps regulate appetite and food intake,' informs Dr Kashish Gupta, Consultant Endocrinology at PSRI Hospital. In essence, semaglutide helps you feel full sooner, slows digestion and reduces hunger. These effects can lead to reduced calorie intake over time and, eventually, weight loss. It may also improve blood sugar levels and help lower the risk of heart issues in certain individuals, particularly those with type 2 diabetes. Who can use it? According to Dr Anjana Kalia, a dietitian at Diet Clinix, it's intended for adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or above, or 27 and above if there's a related health issue. 'But these are not miracle solutions. The decision to use it should always be taken with a qualified doctor after assessing medical history and risks,' she cautions. Who should avoid it? People who have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome, have had pancreatitis or severe digestive disorders, are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to conceive, have eating disorders, or are allergic to semaglutide or its components. These drugs should be taken in full consultation with your medical practitioner. Wegovy vs Mounjaro vs Ozempic 1. Wegovy Active ingredient: Semaglutide Approved for: Weight loss Dosage: Once weekly Benefits: Helps regulate blood sugar levels, lowers the risk of cardiovascular events Side effects: Nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting Price: ₹ 17,345 a month for 0.25mg, 0.5mg, and 1mg doses and ₹ 24,280 and ₹ 26,050 a month for 1.7mg and 2.4mg doses, respectively. 2. Mounjaro Active ingredient: Tirzepatide Approved for: Type 2 diabetes Dosage: Once weekly Benefits: Helps regulate blood sugar levels, improves insulin sensitivity Side effects: Nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting and pancreatitis or thyroid issues in rare cases Price: ₹ 4,375 ($50.67) for a 5 mg vial, ₹ 3,500 ($40.54) for a 2.5mg vial. 3. Ozempic Active ingredient: Semaglutide Approved for: Type 2 diabetes Dosage: Once weekly Benefits: Helps regulate blood sugar levels, decreases appetite Side effects: Nausea, diarrhoea, upset stomach Price: The injectable Ozempic can cost between ₹ 8,000 and ₹ 20,000 a shot.
Indian Express
3 days ago
- Health
- Indian Express
‘It feels healthy, but…': Here's what happens when you eat soaked Ajwa dates with cold milk on an empty stomach
With wellness routines gaining popularity, one age-old combination is making its way back into morning rituals: soaked Ajwa dates in cold milk, consumed first thing on an empty stomach. Known for their rich nutrient profile and deep cultural significance, Ajwa dates are not only delicious but are also believed to offer a wide range of health benefits when paired with milk. The practice of soaking dates overnight before combining them with cold milk is said to enhance absorption and make it easier on the stomach, especially in the morning when the body is just waking up. Dr Anjana Kalia, Ayurvedic doctor and nutritionist at Diet Clinix, tells 'Ajwa dates are rich in nutrients like iron, potassium, magnesium and calcium. They are also a rich source of fibre. When consumed on an empty stomach especially after soaking overnight with milk it helps give a boost of energy.' She adds, 'People with iron deficiency (who are not diabetic) can benefit from consuming this on an empty stomach, as it may help boost iron levels. Additionally, since it is a good source of antioxidants, it supports the cleansing of vital organs and promotes heart health.' Deepika Sharma, Delhi-based personal trainer and functional nutritionist, mentions, 'Soaked dates are softer and more digestible. Plus, they've got soluble fiber that can keep things moving. Cold milk can feel soothing, unless, of course, your stomach disagrees.' 'Soaked Ajwa dates in cold milk offer a nutrient-rich start to the day,' states Dr Kalia, adding that dates are high in natural sugars, fibre, potassium, and antioxidants, while milk provides protein and calcium. This combination may support digestion, boost energy, and enhance immunity. 'While direct research on this specific mix is limited, individual studies support the digestive and antioxidant benefits of dates and the nutritional value of milk. Together, they can promote gut health, stabilise blood sugar, and provide sustained energy when consumed on an empty stomach,' she stresses. 'Science hasn't caught up entirely,' concurs Sharma. She adds, 'Systems like Ayurveda and Unani have long valued Ajwa dates, for general vitality.' However, more research is needed to understand the benefits in depth. Dr Kalia asserts that diabetics should avoid consuming excessive amounts of Ajwa dates, 'as they can cause a spike in blood sugar levels.' She adds that it is essential for individuals with diabetes to monitor their blood sugar closely while including Ajwa dates in their diet. 'Additionally, those who are lactose intolerant should avoid consuming Ajwa dates with milk, as it may lead to digestive discomfort. Instead, they can soak 2–3 Ajwa dates in water overnight and consume both the dates and the water in the morning.' It feels healthy, Sharma states, but this mix is calorie-dense. 'Without portion control or balance elsewhere in your diet, it could quietly contribute to weight gain over time.' Furthermore, she informs that if you're dealing with kidney issues, IBS, or following a low-potassium diet, dates might not be the best idea. 'Cold milk can also aggravate digestion in some folks, especially first thing in the morning,' she concludes. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
