College is a time when many young adults explore their identity. They discover their passions, develop lifelong friendships, and figure out how they want to be perceived in the world. For many college students across the United States, self-image is one of the most important aspects outside of academics. American culture has long been an appearance-focused society, and with the rise of social media, it has only strengthened what we already know.
In past decades, the most logical solution to losing weight was dieting and exercise, but more and more individuals are shifting to GLP-1 agonists as their answer. GLP-1 agonists are medications typically used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes or obesity, and they work by mimicking GLP-1, a hormone made by the small intestine. This hormone slows stomach emptying, increasing feelings of fullness, and slowing insulin release. GLP-1s are commonly known by their brand names: Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound.
While GLP-1s are valuable tools to help individuals living with type 2 diabetes and obesity lose weight, they have side effects you should be aware of. GLP-1s can cause abdominal discomfort, constipation or diarrhea, and possibly even pancreatitis or bowel obstructions. This is why supervision from a medical professional is crucial when starting any new prescription medication.
GLP-1 usage is increasing across the U.S., especially in younger individuals. A 2024 study from the University of Michigan showed a dramatic 594.4% increase between 2020 and 2023 in adolescents and young adults using GLP-1s (8,722 to 60,567). This number is also higher in females than males (481.1% increase in males vs 659.4% in women). Awareness of GLP-1s in American society has also risen dramatically with an increase in pharmaceutical advertising and telehealth weight loss companies like Ro, Hims/Hers, Noom, and more.
If you’re considering using a GLP-1 to aid in weight loss, weigh the pros and cons first. While online telehealth providers are typically more affordable and accessible options as opposed to seeing an in-person physician, there is a chance that your full medical history won’t be taken into account when consulting with their virtual healthcare providers. The best thing to do is discuss your weight loss goals with your primary healthcare provider first, before jumping into GLP-1s. Chances are, there may be things you can implement into your life to improve your health without even needing medication intervention.
At the end of the day, your health is more important than how others perceive your appearance. If you’re healthy and love yourself, that’s all that matters. Trying to change yourself for the approval of others is not a smart idea. Take care of yourself, Bucs.
