Small corrections about body composition
A reader pointed out a few issues with how we discussed the effect of weight loss drugs on body composition, so we fixed it.
Fat loss occurs when more calories are expended than consumed.
Last Updated:October 13, 2023
Fat loss occurs when energy intake is less than energy expenditure (which consists of the thermic effect of food, basal metabolic rate, and physical activity). Physical activity can be further divided into volitional exercise and nonexercise activity thermogenesis.
Different diets do not significantly affect fat loss if their protein and calorie contents are equal, regardless of carbohydrate or fat levels. However, factors like ultraprocessed foods, protein, and fiber can influence energy intake, hunger, and satiety, which can affect fat loss.
Supplements for fat loss generally work by increasing energy expenditure, suppressing appetite, or enhancing fatty acid release from fat cells; popular options include caffeine, ephedrine, and green tea catechins. However, many fat loss supplements lack sufficient evidence for effectiveness and can potentially be harmful, as observed with yohimbine, ephedrine, and caffeine, which may induce anxiety in some individuals.
Several FDA-approved prescription weight-loss drugs include orlistat, phentermine-topiramate, naltrexone-bupropion, liraglutide, semaglutide, and tirzepatide; they are typically prescribed to adults with obesity or those with a BMI of 27 or greater along with related health issues. Additionally, setmelanotide is approved for weight loss but is restricted to individuals with specific rare genetic disorders.
Small corrections about body composition
A reader pointed out a few issues with how we discussed the effect of weight loss drugs on body composition, so we fixed it.
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