Bariatric Life

  • How GLP-1 Drugs Can Silence Food Noise—For Good—and What It Could Mean for Me and You

    A girl blocking her ears with pillows to prevent noise





    How GLP-1 Drugs Can Silence Food Noise—For Good—and What It Could Mean for Me and You

    A girl blocking her ears with pillows to prevent noise



    How GLP-1 Drugs Can Silence Food Noise—For Good—and What It Could Mean for Me and You

    What the Heck is Food Noise, and Why Won’t It Shut Up?

    Food noise is real, and it’s annoying as hell. If you know, you know. But what if that constant mental chatter about food has been so loud for so long, you don’t even realize it’s calling the shots? That was me. For years, food ran the show in my brain—until I gave GLP-1 drugs a shot. And let me tell you, these meds aren’t just about helping me lose weight (though, yes, that’s a sweet bonus). The real win? Peace. Of. Mind. For the first time in, I don’t know, ever, I’m not obsessing over my next snack. I’m sharing this because if you’re stuck in that food-craving loop like I was, there’s hope—and trust me, it’s not just about the weight loss. It’s about finally getting mental clarity, too.

    But let’s rewind for a sec. When I say “food noise,” what am I really talking about? It’s not just craving a cupcake every now and then. It’s that constant, nagging voice in your head—whispering, yelling—about what to eat, when to eat, and why you shouldn’t, but still totally want to. And what’s wild is that I didn’t even realize how loud that voice was until I took my first dose of Saxenda (a GLP-1 drug used for weight management—we’ll unpack that later). Spoiler alert: it was deafening. Then, suddenly, the chatter stopped, and I realized this noise had been running my life, messing with my health, and making everything a whole lot harder.

    After battling the disease of obesity since my teens (that’s nearly 40 years, for those of you counting), and despite what Grandma might still believe about needing to “just exercise more,” global health authorities like the WHO, American Medical Association, and Canadian Medical Association recognize obesity as a complex metabolic disease. In 2016, I had gastric bypass surgery. I lost 130 pounds, which, according to the doctors, made me a “success story.” But here’s the plot twist: I’m still fat. And even though I wouldn’t trade the bypass for anything (more on that in another post), it wasn’t until recently (it’s September 2024) that I finally uncovered the real reason food has always been my Achilles’ heel. It’s called food noise. And it’s been the unwelcome roommate in my head for far too long.

    So, How Do GLP-1 Drugs Shut Down the Food Noise?

    Let’s dig into what these GLP-1 drugs are actually up to inside your body—don’t worry, no snooze-worthy science lesson here. GLP-1 stands for Glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone that’s naturally produced in your gut. Its job? To help regulate hunger and blood sugar. So, when you eat, your body releases GLP-1, which sends signals to your brain saying, “Hey, we’re full now!” It also slows down digestion, so that full feeling lasts longer.

    Here’s where the magic of GLP-1 drugs—like Saxenda (for weight loss) or Ozempic (for diabetes management)—comes in. These drugs are GLP-1 receptor agonists, meaning they mimic your body’s natural GLP-1 hormone. They’re not replacing anything like insulin does for diabetics, but instead, they help your body work the way it’s supposed to. They:

    • Suppress appetite by signaling to your brain that you’re full.
    • Slow down digestion, keeping you full longer (hello, no more constant snacking).
    • Regulate blood sugar levels, making sure you don’t get those wild spikes or crashes after meals.

    And speaking of insulin… GLP-1 drugs and insulin aren’t the same. Insulin is what your body needs when it can’t produce enough on its own (like in type 1 diabetes or late-stage type 2 diabetes). Insulin helps your body use or store sugar from the food you eat. GLP-1 drugs, on the other hand, help boost your body’s own insulin production when needed, while also keeping excess sugar from hitting your bloodstream.

    Long story short, insulin is a replacement hormone for those who need it, while GLP-1 drugs act as regulators—helping your body manage hunger, digestion, and blood sugar without pushing you into hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). It’s like a tune-up for your body’s hunger signals, not a replacement part.

    What GLP-1 Drugs Are Approved for Weight Loss in Canada and the U.S.? Here’s the Deal

    So, allGLP-1 receptor agonists were initially developed and are still primarily used to treattype 2 diabetes. However, some GLP-1 receptor agonists, likeSaxenda andWegovy, have been approved specifically forweight management in individuals with or without diabetes due to their appetite-suppressing effects. Here’s the scoop on what’s actually approved in the U.S. and Canada, at time of writing this in September 2024. Spoiler: they’re not all created equal, and insurance still likes to play hard-to-get (cue eye roll).

    In the U.S. (FDA-Approved for Weight Loss):

    1. Saxenda (liraglutide) – Saxenda’s the OG when it comes to FDA-approved GLP-1s for weight management. It’s for adults who are either obese or overweight with co-morbidities (a fancy way of saying bonus health issues) like high blood pressure or diabetes and it works best when paired with—you guessed it—diet and exercise.

    2. Wegovy (semaglutide) – If you thought Ozempic was all the rage, meet Wegovy: same magic ingredient (semaglutide), but this version’s dosage is pumped up for weight loss instead of diabetes. It’s approved for adults with obesity or weight-related health problems.

    3. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) – Not officially FDA-approved for weight loss yet, but it’s already creating buzz because this diabetes drug has some serious weight loss potential. Keep your eyes peeled—this one’s likely getting the green light soon. 

    4. In Canada (Health Canada-Approved for Weight Loss) :

    1. Saxenda (liraglutide) – Yep, approved for adults with a BMI of 30 or more, or 27+ if you’ve got some health issues tagging along for the ride. Same game plan: pair it with diet and exercise.

    2. Wegovy (semaglutide) – It’s new, it’s hot, and it’s just been approved in Canada for weight management. But don’t get too excited yet—actually getting your hands on it (or getting your insurance to cover it) might be a whole different story.

    Why Using These Drugs Matters (Spoiler: It’s More Than Just Weight Loss)

    Here’s what I’m discovering through my experience with Saxenda: GLP-1 drugs don’t just address weight loss (though, yeah, that’s a nice perk). They go deeper, rewiring your body’s hunger cues so you’re not constantly fighting the urge to snack. It’s not a “willpower problem,” and it never was. These meds tackle the biology behind the cravings and finally bring some peace.

    That constant, intrusive food noise? It’s finally quieting down. For the first time—maybe ever—I can actually think about something—anything—besides food. It’s freeing in a way I didn’t realize I needed. I’m not ruled by cravings anymore. And it’s not about forcing myself into some restrictive diet or flexing my willpower muscles. It feels like my body is resetting itself so that food takes its proper place—as fuel, not an all-consuming obsession.

    And that clarity? That’s where the real magic happens. I can focus, my energy is leveling out, and I’m no longer haunted by the constant thoughts of what to eat next. I’m not just surviving the day—I’m actually living. It’s like my brain has been handed back to me, without the constant buzz of food cravings hanging over everything I do.

    This shift feels monumental in both my mind and body.

    The Catch: Side Effects, Insurance Drama, and the “Fad” Factor

    So, while GLP-1 drugs have been a game-changer for me, they’re not without their hurdles. Everyone’s experience is different—some people might encounter side effects like nausea, digestive issues, or fatigue, especially when they’re just starting out. But full disclosure—I haven’t had any experience with those side effects at all. When Saxenda shut down the food noise in my head on the very first, lowest dose, I never felt the need to increase it. Maybe it’s because I already had the restriction from my gastric bypass, and shutting off the food noise was the real game-changer for me. But the bigger challenge? Insurance coverage—or the lack thereof.

    As I laid out earlier, even though Saxenda andWegovy (and a few other GLP-1 drugs) are FDA-approved in the U.S. and approved by Health Canada for weight management, insurance companies still treat them like “lifestyle” extras instead of essential meds for managing chronic obesity.

    And,let’s talk money. If you don’t have the right insurance plan (and let’s be real, most of us don’t), expect to fork over a hefty out-of-pocket cost. It’s especially frustrating when you know just howlife-changing these meds can be. For many of us, dealing withchronic obesity, these drugs aren’t just a short-term solution—they’re a lifelong commitment to staying healthy.

    I know this firsthand. I had insurance coverage andtook Saxenda for three glorious, brain-quieting months, but when I switched to my employer’s plan, everything changed. Now, I’m two months deep into trying to convince the new insurance company that I need these meds long-term to stay healthy, stay mobile, and, in the long run, maybe even stay alive. And here’s the truth: for many of us, these medications aren’t just a short-term fix—they’re the most effective tool we have to manage this disease for the long haul.

    Now real kicker—coverage is bad, but this isn’t just about coverage. With celebrities and influencers pushing these meds like they’re the latest quick-fix weight-loss secret,global shortages have become a thing. Add in the fact thatOzempic—another GLP-1 drug—that is also used for diabetes is being sold off label for weight loss like crazy, and the supply chain is stretched even thinner. So, between the “fad” factor, the dual-purpose use for diabetics, and the insane demand, insurers are even more hesitant to cover them. That leaves people like us—who genuinely need these meds for long-term health—struggling to get access and paying out of pocket when we do.

    Despite the hurdles—side effects, insurance issues, and shortages—there’s no denying the life-changing potential of GLP-1 drugs. They don’t just help with weight loss; they quiet the relentless food noise that’s been controlling the show for far too long. And that’s where the real transformation happens.

    The Game-Changer I Didn’t Know I Needed

    Despite the hurdles—side effects, insurance issues, and shortages—there’s no denying the life-changing potential of GLP-1 drugs. They don’t just help with weight loss; they quiet the relentless food noise that’s been controlling the show for far too long. And that’s where the real transformation happens.

    So, if you’re anything like me—constantly battling those intrusive food thoughts—GLP-1 drugs might just be the game-changer you didn’t even know you needed. They’re not just for weight loss; they can also target that constant food noise, freeing you from the cycle of obsession and guilt. Trust me, I know how heavy that mental load can be, and now I know for sure there’s light on the other side. I’ll keep blogging on my insurance journey and let you know what I learn.

    What the Heck Is Food Noise and Why Won’t It Shut Up?

    Food noise is real, and it’s annoying as hell. If you know, you know. But what if that constant mental chatter about food has been so loud for so long, you don’t even realize it’s calling the shots? That was me. For years, food ran the show in my brain—until I gave GLP-1 drugs a shot. And let me tell you, these meds aren’t just about helping me lose weight (though, yes, that’s a sweet bonus). The real win? Peace. Of. Mind. For the first time in, I don’t know, ever, I’m not obsessing over my next snack. I’m sharing this because if you’re stuck in that food-craving loop like I was, there’s hope—and trust me, it’s not just about the weight loss. It’s about finally getting mental clarity, too.

    But let’s rewind for a sec. When I say “food noise,” what am I really talking about? It’s not just craving a cupcake every now and then. It’s that constant, nagging voice in your head—whispering, yelling—about what to eat, when to eat, and why you shouldn’t, but still totally want to. And what’s wild is that I didn’t even realize how loud that voice was until I took my first dose of Saxenda (a GLP-1 drug used for weight management—we’ll unpack that later). Spoiler alert: it was deafening. Then, suddenly, the chatter stopped, and I realized this noise had been running my life, messing with my health, and making everything a whole lot harder.

    After battling the disease of obesity since my teens (that’s nearly 40 years, for those of you counting), and despite what Grandma might still believe about needing to “just exercise more,” global health authorities like the WHO, American Medical Association, and Canadian Medical Association recognize obesity as a complex metabolic disease. In 2016, I had gastric bypass surgery. I lost 130 pounds, which, according to the doctors, made me a “success story.” But here’s the plot twist: I’m still fat. And even though I wouldn’t trade the bypass for anything (more on that in another post), it wasn’t until recently (it’s September 2024) that I finally uncovered the real reason food has always been my Achilles’ heel. It’s called food noise. And it’s been the unwelcome roommate in my head for far too long.

    So, How Do GLP-1 Drugs Shut Down the Food Noise?

    Let’s dig into what these GLP-1 drugs are actually up to inside your body—don’t worry, no snooze-worthy science lesson here. GLP-1 stands for Glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone that’s naturally produced in your gut. Its job? To help regulate hunger and blood sugar. So, when you eat, your body releases GLP-1, which sends signals to your brain saying, “Hey, we’re full now!” It also slows down digestion, so that full feeling lasts longer.

    Here’s where the magic of GLP-1 drugs—like Saxenda (for weight loss) or Ozempic (for diabetes management)—comes in. These drugs are GLP-1 receptor agonists, meaning they mimic your body’s natural GLP-1 hormone. They’re not replacing anything like insulin does for diabetics, but instead, they help your body work the way it’s supposed to. They:

    • Suppress appetite by signaling to your brain that you’re full.
    • Slow down digestion, keeping you full longer (hello, no more constant snacking).
    • Regulate blood sugar levels, making sure you don’t get those wild spikes or crashes after meals.

    And speaking of insulin… GLP-1 drugs and insulin aren’t the same. Insulin is what your body needs when it can’t produce enough on its own (like in type 1 diabetes or late-stage type 2 diabetes). Insulin helps your body use or store sugar from the food you eat. GLP-1 drugs, on the other hand, help boost your body’s own insulin production when needed, while also keeping excess sugar from hitting your bloodstream.

    Long story short, insulin is a replacement hormone for those who need it, while GLP-1 drugs act as regulators—helping your body manage hunger, digestion, and blood sugar without pushing you into hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). It’s like a tune-up for your body’s hunger signals, not a replacement part.

    What GLP-1 Drugs Are Approved for Weight Loss in Canada and the U.S.? Here’s the Deal

    So, all GLP-1 receptor agonists were initially developed and are still primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes. However, some GLP-1 receptor agonists, like Saxenda and Wegovy, have been approved specifically for weight management in individuals with or without diabetes due to their appetite-suppressing effects. Here’s the scoop on what’s actually approved in the U.S. and Canada, at time of writing this in September 2024. Spoiler: they’re not all created equal, and insurance still likes to play hard-to-get (cue eye roll).

    In the U.S. (FDA-Approved for Weight Loss):

    1. Saxenda (liraglutide) – Saxenda’s the OG when it comes to FDA-approved GLP-1s for weight management. It’s for adults who are either obese or overweight with co-morbidities (a fancy way of saying bonus health issues) like high blood pressure or diabetes and it works best when paired with—you guessed it—diet and exercise.
    2. Wegovy (semaglutide) – If you thought Ozempic was all the rage, meet Wegovy: same magic ingredient (semaglutide), but this version’s dosage is pumped up for weight loss instead of diabetes. It’s approved for adults with obesity or weight-related health problems.
    3. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) – Not officially FDA-approved for weight loss yet, but it’s already creating buzz because this diabetes drug has some serious weight loss potential. Keep your eyes peeled—this one’s likely getting the green light soon.
    4. In Canada (Health Canada-Approved for Weight Loss) :
    1. Saxenda (liraglutide) – Yep, approved for adults with a BMI of 30 or more, or 27+ if you’ve got some health issues tagging along for the ride. Same game plan: pair it with diet and exercise.
    2. Wegovy (semaglutide) – It’s new, it’s hot, and it’s just been approved in Canada for weight management. But don’t get too excited yet—actually getting your hands on it (or getting your insurance to cover it) might be a whole different story.

    Why Using These Drugs Matters (Spoiler: It’s More Than Just Weight Loss)

    Here’s what I’m discovering through my experience with Saxenda: GLP-1 drugs don’t just address weight loss (though, yeah, that’s a nice perk). They go deeper, rewiring your body’s hunger cues so you’re not constantly fighting the urge to snack. It’s not a “willpower problem,” and it never was. These meds tackle the biology behind the cravings and finally bring some peace.

    That constant, intrusive food noise? It’s finally quieting down. For the first time—maybe ever—I can actually think about something—anything—besides food. It’s freeing in a way I didn’t realize I needed. I’m not ruled by cravings anymore. And it’s not about forcing myself into some restrictive diet or flexing my willpower muscles. It feels like my body is resetting itself so that food takes its proper place—as fuel, not an all-consuming obsession.

    And that clarity? That’s where the real magic happens. I can focus, my energy is leveling out, and I’m no longer haunted by the constant thoughts of what to eat next. I’m not just surviving the day—I’m actually living. It’s like my brain has been handed back to me, without the constant buzz of food cravings hanging over everything I do.

    This shift feels monumental in both my mind and body.

    The Catch: Side Effects, Insurance Drama, and the “Fad” Factor

    So, while GLP-1 drugs have been a game-changer for me, they’re not without their hurdles. Everyone’s experience is different—some people might encounter side effects like nausea, digestive issues, or fatigue, especially when they’re just starting out. But full disclosure—I haven’t had any experience with those side effects at all. When Saxenda shut down the food noise in my head on the very first, lowest dose, I never felt the need to increase it. Maybe it’s because I already had the restriction from my gastric bypass, and shutting off the food noise was the real game-changer for me. But the bigger challenge? Insurance coverage—or the lack thereof.

    As I laid out earlier, even though Saxenda andWegovy (and a few other GLP-1 drugs) are FDA-approved in the U.S. and approved by Health Canada for weight management, insurance companies still treat them like “lifestyle” extras instead of essential meds for managing chronic obesity.

    And, let’s talk money. If you don’t have the right insurance plan (and let’s be real, most of us don’t), expect to fork over a hefty out-of-pocket cost. It’s especially frustrating when you know just how life-changing these meds can be. For many of us, dealing with chronic obesity, these drugs aren’t just a short-term solution—they’re a lifelong commitment to staying healthy.

    I know this firsthand. I had insurance coverage and took Saxenda for three glorious, brain-quieting months, but when I switched to my employer’s plan, everything changed. Now, I’m two months deep into trying to convince the new insurance company that I need these meds long-term to stay healthy, stay mobile, and, in the long run, maybe even stay alive. And here’s the truth: for many of us, these medications aren’t just a short-term fix—they’re the most effective tool we have to manage this disease for the long haul.

    Now real kicker—coverage is bad, but this isn’t just about coverage. With celebrities and influencers pushing these meds like they’re the latest quick-fix weight-loss secret, global shortages have become a thing. Add in the fact that Ozempic—another GLP-1 drug—that is also used for diabetes is being sold off label for weight loss like crazy, and the supply chain is stretched even thinner. So, between the “fad” factor, the dual-purpose use for diabetics, and the insane demand, insurers are even more hesitant to cover them. That leaves people like us—who genuinely need these meds for long-term health—struggling to get access and paying out of pocket when we do.

    Despite the hurdles—side effects, insurance issues, and shortages—there’s no denying the life-changing potential of GLP-1 drugs. They don’t just help with weight loss; they quiet the relentless food noise that’s been controlling the show for far too long. And that’s where the real transformation happens.

    The Game-Changer I Didn’t Know I Needed

    Despite the hurdles—side effects, insurance issues, and shortages—there’s no denying the life-changing potential of GLP-1 drugs. They don’t just help with weight loss; they quiet the relentless food noise that’s been controlling the show for far too long. And that’s where the real transformation happens.

    So, if you’re anything like me—constantly battling those intrusive food thoughts—GLP-1 drugs might just be the game-changer you didn’t even know you needed. They’re not just for weight loss; they can also target that constant food noise, freeing you from the cycle of obsession and guilt. Trust me, I know how heavy that mental load can be, and now I know for sure there’s light on the other side. I’ll keep blogging on my insurance journey and let you know what I learn.

    Medical Disclaimer: I’m Not Your Doctor, and I’ve Never Played One on TV

    The information in this blog is based on my personal experience and is for informational purposes only. I am not providing medical advice, and I am not recommending the use of GLP-1 drugs for you. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider about any medical conditions, treatments, or medications, including GLP-1 drugs. Don’t ignore or delay professional advice because of anything you read here.

    The author assumes no responsibility or liability for any consequences resulting directly or indirectly from any action or inaction taken based on the information provided in this blog. Always seek the advice of a medical professional before making any decisions related to your health.