GLP-1s can help with Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and weight-related conditions, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. They may also help reduce some cardiovascular and kidney-related risks.
GLP-1 Weight Loss in Idaho Falls
At The Healing Sanctuary, we offer comprehensive support for GLP-1 weight loss in Idaho Falls with the end goal of long-term results. If a GLP-1 medication like tirzepatide or semaglutide fits your needs, we can incorporate it into your weight loss program.
Our Idaho Falls clinic is an affiliate of Mountain View Hospital and was voted Idaho’s Best of 2024 Weight Loss Clinic.
What Are GLP-1 Medications?
A GLP-1 is a natural hormone in your small intestine that regulates your blood sugar, controls your appetite, and slows digestion. GLP-1 medications are synthetic versions of this hormone that can mimic its effects. They are typically given as injections or taken orally.
Though created as a way to manage type 2 diabetes, they can also be prescribed to support weight loss for people with obesity or those who are overweight with a related condition, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure.
How GLP-1s Support Weight Loss
Losing weight can be challenging, even when you eat well and stay active. Many factors can affect weight loss, including hormones, ongoing health conditions, and metabolism. Because of this, some people use GLP-1 medications to aid the process.
GLP-1 medications can assist people with weight loss in several ways. They can make you feel full faster, reduce your cravings and hunger, slow digestion, and help to regulate your blood sugar. With all of these factors combined, they can help you eat less while feeling satisfied, as well as experiencing less food noise in your mind.
It’s important to understand that they should be used as one or several tools in the weight loss process. Nutritious eating, exercise, and consistent sleep are all necessary components of a healthy fitness plan as well.
About Tirzepatide and Semaglutide
Tirzepatide and semaglutide are two commonly prescribed GLP-1 medications. The main difference between the two is how many hormones they target.
Semaglutide acts on GLP-1 alone, while tirzepatide acts on two hormones: GLP-1 and GIP. GIP refers to another gut hormone that helps your body use energy and manage blood sugar. Because it targets both, tirzepatide has produced more effective results.
If qualifiers are met, we are able to order medication through insurance at The Healing Sanctuary. If insurance will not cover it, we offer compounded versions of tirzepatide and semaglutide. We can meet with you to discuss your options and what would be the best fit for you.
Both of these begin at a low dose and increase over time as your provider determines. Although mild bloating and nausea are common, tell your doctor if symptoms persist or become extreme. Seek urgent care if you experience severe stomach pain.
Who Are GLP-1s Approved for Through Insurance?
GLP-1s are approved through insurance for adults with:
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A BMI of 30 or more
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A BMI of 27 or more along with a weight-related condition:
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High cholesterol
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Obstructive sleep apnea
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High blood pressure
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Type 2 diabetes
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Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis
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Chronic kidney disease
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Cardiovascular disease with risk of stroke or heart attack
GLP-1s are not right for everyone, which is why consulting a professional matters. They should not be used if you are pregnant, have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), have a personal history of multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), or have a history of serious allergic reactions.
The Healing Sanctuary’s Sustainable Program
Office visits are billed to insurance or $75 for cash-pay patients.
Labs are billed to insurance. We can provide quotes for cash-pay patients.
The Healing Sanctuary is here to help you lose the weight and maintain it, and our weight loss services are designed with you in mind.
We start with a consultation, followed by lab work. Through these labs and other diagnostic testing, we can look past the surface and identify root causes that might be contributing to weight challenges. If we do find something that is going on, we can help address that as well to support your weight loss goals and help you feel better overall.
During check-ins and follow-ups, we can discuss any roadblocks and evaluate when we need to pivot. We also offer a body composition analysis, which measures your lean muscle mass, body fat percentage, and areas like your waist, hips, arms, and thighs. This is how we keep track of your progress.
Throughout the program, you will receive support from a medical provider, nutrition and wellness education, and integrative medical options. We can help you make lifestyle changes with food, exercise, and sleep so that you have a sustainable plan for maintaining your hard work. A few key steps are offered to help reduce rebound weight gain during GLP-1 usage, such as a liver/gut detox and lymphatic drainage with our infrared sauna.
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions do GLP-1s treat?
Some gastrointestinal issues can occur, such as nausea, diarrhea, constipation, acid reflux, and vomiting, but they commonly fade over time. Seek care for persistent or severe symptoms.
Because losing weight quickly can lead to a loss of both fat and muscle mass, it is best to strength train and eat enough protein to maintain muscle. We provide a free 3D body imaging analysis that we like you to complete at least once a month. This is to ensure you are not losing muscle mass.
Do people stay on GLP-1s forever?
GLP-1s are meant for long-term use, as they often treat chronic conditions, but it depends on the person and the reason behind taking them. Stopping them can lead to weight gain and health risks returning.
What if insurance does not cover the GLP-1?
We work with various compounding pharmacies to provide the medication at an affordable price.
Start Your GLP-1 Journey in Idaho Falls
You are not alone on your weight loss journey, and our team would love to help you through every stage of it. And if you’re not sure where to start, we can meet with you and make a plan together that makes the most sense for you.
Contact us today to schedule your Idaho Falls GLP-1 weight loss consultation.