Who Is a Good Candidate for GLP-1 Weight Loss Injections?

Are you struggling with excess weight and wondering if GLP-1 weight loss injections might be the solution for you? These injections are gaining attention as a breakthrough tool to help people lose weight. If you’re asking yourself, “Who is a good candidate for GLP-1 injections, and how do I know if I qualify?”, read on. We’ll break down what GLP-1 injections are, who can benefit, and how to find out if you qualify, with a focus on the consultation and evaluation process at New Horizons Wellness Center & MediSpa in Spring, TX.

Understanding GLP-1 Weight Loss Injections

GLP-1 weight loss injections are medications (like semaglutide) that were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes but have also been found to help with weight loss. GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a natural hormone in your body that helps control blood sugar and appetite. These medications mimic that hormone’s effects. In simple terms, a GLP-1 injection helps you feel full sooner and reduces your hunger, so you eat less without feeling deprived. They are usually taken once a week and are FDA-approved for long-term weight management in eligible patients (e.g., semaglutide – brand name Ozempic®/Wegovy®).

GLP-1 injections can lead to significant weight loss when combined with healthy eating and exercise, which is why they have become so popular. However, they are prescription treatments and not appropriate for everyone, which is why figuring out if you’re a good candidate is so important.

How GLP-1 Injections Help with Weight Loss

It might sound surprising – a shot that helps you lose weight? Here’s how GLP-1 injections support weight loss:

• Curbing Your Appetite: GLP-1 medications act on appetite centers in your brain to reduce hunger and cravings. You’ll feel satisfied with smaller portions.
• Feeling Full Longer: They slow down how quickly food leaves your stomach, meaning you stay full longer after eating. This helps prevent overeating or unnecessary snacking.
• Stabilizing Blood Sugar: These injections improve insulin production and reduce the amount of sugar your liver releases. More stable blood sugar levels can lead to fewer cravings and less fat storage.

Keep in mind that GLP-1 injections work best alongside a healthy diet and exercise plan. They’re a powerful tool to aid your journey, not a magic fix on their own. At New Horizons Wellness Center, the team uses a comprehensive approach by combining medication with nutrition guidance and coaching to help you achieve safe, lasting results.

Who Is a Good Candidate for GLP-1 Weight Loss Injections?

Now for the big question: who should consider GLP-1 weight loss injections? The answer usually comes down to your body mass index (BMI) and related health factors. These injections are intended for individuals who are overweight or obese and have struggled to lose weight through traditional methods.
According to Emile Kettle, PA at New Horizons Wellness Center & MediSpa in Spring, TX, “Almost anyone with a BMI of 30 and above is a good candidate. Additionally, BMI of 28 with high cholesterol, high blood sugar, or A1C ≥5.7.” In practical terms:

• If your BMI is 30 or higher, you are likely a good candidate for these weight loss injections. (A BMI of 30+ is classified as “obese.”)
• If your BMI is around 28 or higher and you have a weight-related health issue, you may also qualify. Weight-related issues include conditions like high cholesterol, high blood sugar (prediabetes or type 2 diabetes), or high blood pressure. These health issues often go hand-in-hand with excess weight, so medication-assisted weight loss could significantly improve them.

BMI is a quick way to estimate body fat based on height and weight. Generally, the higher your BMI, the more you might benefit from medical weight loss help. For someone with a lower BMI (say, in the 25–27 range) who doesn’t have other health problems, doctors will usually recommend sticking to diet and exercise without medication. But if you are in the obese range or have related health issues, a GLP-1 injection program could be a game-changer for your health.

How Do I Know If I Qualify for GLP-1 Injections?

The best way to know if you qualify is to have a medical consultation. You can start by checking your BMI and considering any health issues you have (for example, high cholesterol or prediabetes). If you’ve tried diet and exercise without lasting success, that’s another sign you might benefit from additional help. Ultimately, only a healthcare provider can evaluate your unique situation and determine if GLP-1 injections are safe and appropriate for you.

At New Horizons Wellness Center & MediSpa, the team will perform a thorough evaluation to see if you qualify and if this weight loss approach is the right fit. Everyone’s situation is unique – two people might have the same BMI but different factors in their health that influence the decision – that’s why a personalized assessment is so important.

Consultation and Evaluation at New Horizons Wellness Center

When you come in for a weight loss consultation at New Horizons Wellness Center in Spring, TX, you’ll receive a thorough, personalized assessment. Here’s what you can expect during the evaluation:

• Comprehensive Health Review: The provider will review your medical history and current health, including any conditions and medications. This is to ensure GLP-1 injections are safe for you.
• Lab Tests & Body Composition: You may undergo lab tests (checking things like your A1C, cholesterol levels, thyroid function, etc.) and a body composition analysis. These give a clear picture of your health and how much of your weight is fat versus muscle. If there are underlying issues contributing to weight gain, you can address them in your plan.
• Lifestyle & Goals Discussion: You’ll talk about your eating habits, activity level, and weight loss goals. Understanding your lifestyle and past efforts helps the team tailor the program to suit you and ensure you’re comfortable with the plan.

After this evaluation, the provider will let you know if you qualify for the GLP-1 injection program. If you do, they’ll explain how the injections will be incorporated into your weight loss plan, discuss any potential side effects, and set up your follow-up schedule. If you do not qualify or if a different approach would be better, they’ll recommend an alternative strategy. Either way, you’ll leave the consultation with a clear, medically-informed plan for moving forward.

Why Choose New Horizons Wellness Center for Your Weight Loss Journey?

When it comes to medical weight loss, the clinic and team you choose can make a big difference in your success. Here’s what sets New Horizons Wellness Center & MediSpa apart:

1. Experience and Expertise: You’ll be guided by seasoned professionals. Emile Kettle, PA, the Center Director, has nearly 30 years of medical experience (including service in the U.S. Navy) and has been with this practice since 2006. With that background, you’re in very capable hands.
2. Personalized, Comprehensive Care: The program at New Horizons Wellness is not one-size-fits-all. The staff provides personalized support, from custom diet and exercise plans to regular check-ins. They use tools like lab tests and body composition scans to tailor the program to your needs. If something isn’t working as well as expected, they will adjust your treatment or explore alternatives.
3. Safety and Ongoing Support: This is a medically supervised journey, not a fad diet. The team monitors your progress and well-being at every step. They’ll track your progress to make sure you’re losing weight safely. You can always reach out with questions or for encouragement. The providers also set realistic expectations – no exaggerated promises, just steady progress and support.
4. Accessibility and Affordability: New Horizons Wellness Center is local to the Spring and The Woodlands area, which is convenient if you live nearby. The clinic strives to keep the program affordable by offering different weight loss plans and payment options to fit your budget. High-quality weight loss care is made accessible, so cost doesn’t stand in the way of your health.

All of these factors create an environment where you can succeed. It’s not just about the medication – it’s about the guidance, expertise, and support that come with it.

Ready to Start Your GLP-1 Weight Loss Journey?

If you think GLP-1 weight loss injections might be the key to a healthier you, the next step is to schedule a consultation at New Horizons Wellness Center & MediSpa. A medical professional will evaluate you one-on-one and confirm whether you qualify for this program.
For many patients who meet the criteria, GLP-1 injections have been the jumpstart that finally helped them shed pounds and improve their health after years of frustration. It could be a game-changer for you, too – and with guidance from experts like Emile Kettle, PA, you’ll have a clear plan and caring support from day one. Why not take that first step and find out if you qualify?

Ready to get started? Contact New Horizons Wellness Center & MediSpa in Spring, TX, to book your consultation and take control of your wellness. You’ve got nothing to lose – except the weight!

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider to determine the best weight loss strategy for your needs.