Ep. 215: Doug Lisle, PhD - Do the New Weight Loss Drugs Really Work?
Sep 21, 2023
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Evolutionary psychologist Dr. Doug Lisle joins the podcast to discuss the effectiveness and long-term impacts of weight loss drugs. They explore the underlying causes of obesity, the correlation between obesity and disease, and the pros and cons of weight loss medications. The hosts also address listener questions about medical cannabis withdrawal and the potential benefits of a whole food plant-based diet for schizophrenia. They touch on the influence of screen time and social media, imagination in food choices, and the impact of various aspects of life on weight loss drugs.
Weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wagonia may offer short-term weight loss, but their long-term effects on disease and overall health are still unknown.
Obesity is not solely a result of personal choices or a disease, but rather a consequence of an altered diet, emphasizing the need to focus on nutrition and healthy dietary habits.
While whole food plant-based nutrition cannot cure schizophrenia, it can contribute to an overall healthier lifestyle and potentially improve physical well-being in individuals managing the disorder.
Deep dives
The limitations and uncertainties of weight loss drugs
Weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wagonia are being hailed as potential game changers for weight loss. However, their long-term effects and true impact on health are still unknown. These drugs may offer short-term weight loss, but their underlying effects on disease and overall health are questionable. It's important to consider the potential side effects and trade-offs associated with these medications. Rather than relying on drugs, a comprehensive and sustainable approach to weight loss, such as whole food plant-based nutrition, regular exercise, and healthy lifestyle habits, may offer better long-term results.
Understanding the nature of obesity and its causes
Obesity is not a moral failing or a disease. It is a natural consequence of an altered diet that is richer in calories than what our bodies were designed for. The problem lies in the food we eat rather than our weight itself. Blaming obesity for health problems is misleading, as it is the diet causing the issues. It is crucial to understand the underlying principles of nutrition and the cause-and-effect relationship between dietary choices and health outcomes. A whole food plant-based approach, combined with an understanding of healthy dietary habits, can help overcome obesity and improve overall health.
Considerations for individuals with schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a complex mental disorder influenced by genetics and neurobiological factors. While whole food plant-based nutrition cannot resolve schizophrenia, it can contribute to an overall healthier lifestyle and potentially improve physical well-being. Calm and supportive environments, regular exercise, healthy foods, and a consistent daily routine may be beneficial for individuals managing schizophrenia. It is important to seek professional guidance and support to address the unique challenges associated with schizophrenia.
The impact of screens and screen time on mental well-being
Screen time has become a significant part of our lives and can potentially disrupt mental well-being. The constant exposure to screens and the stimulating nature of digital media can contribute to imbalances and affect attention and focus. Creating a balanced lifestyle is key, with moderation and boundaries around screen time. Making conscious efforts to engage in physical activities, pursue hobbies, and maintain real-life connections can help mitigate the negative impacts of excessive screen use.
The power of balance and making mindful choices
Finding balance in all aspects of life, including diet and technology use, is paramount. Understanding the potential consequences and benefits of our choices helps in making mindful decisions. While certain medications may offer temporary relief, it is crucial to assess the long-term cost-benefit considerations and potential risks. Exploring lifestyle changes, such as adopting a whole food plant-based diet, can provide sustainable and comprehensive health benefits. Each individual's journey is unique, and it is essential to prioritize personal well-being and find a balanced approach that works best.
The news is out and the headlines are clear - drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy DO help people lose weight and they have become "the next big thing" for weight loss.
But, questions remain: How do they work? What long-term impacts will these have on health? Are they really helping the underlying cause of obesity and disease? Is it enough just to lose the weight? Will these drugs actually improve our health in the same way that a whole food plant-based diet can?
Rip welcomes evolutionary psychologist, Dr. Doug Lisle, back to the podcast to discuss his thoughts on these new weight loss drugs and why they may or may not be a panacea for improved health.
They discuss:
The correlation between obesity and disease processes
The underlying cause of obesity
Pros and Cons of weight loss drugs
Why people struggle to change their behavior even when they know better
The importance of making your environment look like your goals
Listener Question: recovering from medical cannabis withdrawal
Listener Question: Can a whole food plant-based diet cure schizophrenia?
Dr. Doug's thoughts on screen time and social media influence
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