Lower 14 Kg, This Is The Reason Serena Williams Uses GLP-1 For Diet

Serena Williams (Photo: Instagram/@serenawimias)

JAKARTA - World tennis legend Serena Williams recently made a public scene after revealing the key to her weight loss journey was the use of the GLP-1 drug. After twice giving birth, the 43-year-old athlete admitted that she had difficulty getting back to her ideal weight, even though she had undergone a strict diet and intensive training. Now, Serena has managed to lose 14 kg with the help of this drug.

He's not the only world celebrity to use it. Big names like Sharon Osbourne, Rebel Wilson, to Lizzo are also said to be using the drug. However, Serena's confession sparked debate among the medical and general public.

Reporting from the Hindustan Times page, GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists. The drugs in this group are also known as GLP-1 agonists, incretin mimetics, or GLP-1 analogues. Some examples are Exenatide, Liraglutide, Dulaglutide, and Semaglutide (National Center of Biotechnology Information).

GLP-1 imitates the work of natural hormones in the body that help regulate blood sugar levels. These hormones trigger insulin production, inhibit glucagon (which raises blood sugar), slows down digestion, and affects the brain in controlling hunger and saturation.

Some drugs combine GLP-1 with other hormones such as Tirzepatide which works on two receptors at once, namely GLP-1 and GIP.

This drug is available in the form of pills or injections. For injections, drugs are given subcutaneously (under the skin), usually on the stomach, outside thighs, upper buttocks, or back arms.

Initially, GLP-1 was made for type 2 diabetes patients because it can control blood sugar. However, then the benefits of helping weight loss are found, especially for those who are obese or have related health problems, such as hypertension, high cholesterol, to sleep apnea.

Several GLP-1 drugs have been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for weight management, such as Wegovy and Mounjaro. There is also Ozempic, which is officially approved only for type 2 diabetes, but is often used off-label to lose weight.

GLP/GIP analog is now increasingly popular, but it is only recommended under certain conditions. It is not recommended for people who seek shortcuts to lose weight just for the sake of aesthetics. Decisions to use medical therapy for obesity should be determined by the treating doctor," said Dr. Sharwari Dabhade Dua, an endocrinologist from Dua Speciality Clinic.

Side Effects

According to the FDA, side effects that may arise include pancreatic inflammation, low blood sugar, allergic reactions, kidney problems, severe digestive disorders, to eye complications related to diabetes.

More common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite, vomiting, constipation, digestive disorders, and stomach pain.

The FDA warns that an unapproved version of the GLP-1 can be dangerous because it does not go through safety, effectiveness, and quality testing.

This drug is not an instant solution. GLP-1 works more effectively when combined with a healthy diet and exercise. Serena herself insists that she does not recommend those on a diet to rely on this drug.

I do a lot of research. I ask myself, is this a shortcut? What are the benefits and risks? I really want to understand it first. This drug actually helps improve everything I've done, eat healthy and exercise, both when I'm a professional athlete and when I only go to the gym every day. " Serena said.