Saxenda is commonly prescribed as a weight management medication, designed to control your appetite and help you feel full.
However, many people who are prescribed this drug often wonder: “Why am I still hungry on Saxenda?” If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
In this article, we explore some possible reasons why you may still feel hungry while using Saxenda. We will also discuss how the medication works, the factors that might influence its efficacy, and practical tips on how to manage persistent hunger.
Alright, let’s dive in and find out what actually goes down when you start using weight loss injections.
Saxenda, scientifically known as Liraglutide, is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist developed by the pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk.
While the drug doesn’t directly suppress appetite, it operates by imitating the physiological impact of GLP-1, the satiety hormone that is naturally released after a meal. It is utilized for adults who are obese or overweight and also have weight-related medical conditions.
After taking Saxenda, it reduces the speed at which food empties from your stomach which results in a greater sensation of being full. Plus, it also regulates insulin levels in your body, maintaining stable blood sugar levels, which can further help in managing food cravings.
Saxenda is suitable for children between the ages of 12 and 17 who are obese and have a body weight exceeding 132 pounds (60 kg). Saxenda is not intended for the treatment of type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
How does Saxenda work?
Saxenda works in the body by imitating an intestinal hormone that targets areas of the brain that regulate appetite and food intake. Under normal physiological circumstances, this hormone, known as GLP-1, is released after eating. It slows down gastric emptying which makes you feel full for a longer time, so you end up decrease in hunger and calorie intake.
Additionally, Saxenda affects the islet cells in the pancreas by acting as a GLP-1 mimic. This leads to an increase in insulin secretion and a suppression of glucagon secretion in a glucose-dependent manner. These combined actions help to control blood sugar levels, insulin levels, and digestion.
Also Read: Does Blue Cross Blue Shield Cover Wegovy For Weight Loss?
Benefits of Saxenda for weight loss
Saxenda provides a wide range of benefits for those looking to shed some pounds:
- It helps to reduce appetite, leading to a decrease in calorie intake.
- By delaying gastric emptying and increasing satiety, it can assist with portion control and food cravings.
- Saxenda is effective for weight loss and improving obesity-related health conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.
- It is an injectable medication that can be self-administered at home, making it an easy option for those with busy schedules.
- Saxenda can be used by both adolescents and adults, providing a weight loss solution for individuals of all ages.
- It is approved by the FDA for long-term use, making it a safe and effective option for sustained weight loss.
Keep in mind that Saxenda works best when combined with a nutritious diet and consistent exercise.
Also Read: How Do I Get Ozempic For $25 A Month?
Why some people still feel hungry while using Saxenda?
Even though Saxenda helps in reducing hunger and promoting feelings of fullness, there are some people who still feel hungry while using it.
Saxenda aids in appetite reduction by influencing your hunger hormones, making it simpler for you to stick to a lower-calorie diet. But, that doesn’t mean you won’t feel hungry at all and can just pretend food isn’t a necessity.
There are some possible reasons why you are still hungry on Saxenda.
First, it’s important to note that Saxenda doesn’t eliminate hunger entirely – it’s designed to decrease appetite, not to remove it. So, it’s normal to still have some hunger sensations.
The effectiveness of Saxenda may vary from person to person due to individual differences in metabolism and body chemistry.
Lastly, the main factors that cause hunger on Sexenda include:
- insufficient hydration
- lack of sleep
- stress
- diabetes
- hyperthyroidism
- depression
- pregnancy
- intense exercise
So, it’s advised to talk with a healthcare professional if persistent hunger continues while using Saxenda, as this may indicate a need for dosage adjustments or a review of dietary habits.
Also Read: Why Am I Still Hungry on Semaglutide? Unveiling The Truth
Common misconceptions about hunger while on Saxenda
There are a few common misconceptions about hunger while on Saxenda that we should clarify:
- Saxenda as a hunger suppressant: While Saxenda helps reduce appetite, it’s not a complete hunger suppressant. It works by helping you feel fuller, but it does not completely eliminate hunger.
- Instant hunger relief: Saxenda may take time to reach its full effect. It is important to be patient and consistent with treatment while working closely with your doctor.
- Hunger elimination forever: As mentioned before, Saxenda is designed to decrease appetite – not eliminate it completely. It’s normal to still experience some hunger sensations.
- Ignoring physical hunger cues: Just because you are on Saxenda does not mean you should ignore your body’s physical hunger signals. It’s important to listen to your body and fuel it with nutritious foods when needed.
Should I avoid any specific foods while I'm on Saxenda?
There are no specific foods that you need to avoid while on Saxenda. However, it’s good to maintain a balanced diet that emphasizes whole foods such as lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Foods high in sugar or unhealthy fats could counteract the effect of Saxenda and might lead to weight gain, even while using the medication.
So, it’s essential to remember that Saxenda is most effective when used alongside a nutritious diet and consistent exercise. Also, consuming plenty of water can help manage hunger levels and keep your body hydrated.
Just like any medication, Saxenda may interact with certain substances, so it’s important to discuss your dietary habits and any other medications you are taking with your doctor.
What are the effects of overeating while taking Saxenda?
Overeating while taking Saxenda can potentially negate the effects of the medication. Saxenda works by regulating your appetite to help control your calorie intake.
When you overeat, you consume an excess of calories beyond your body’s requirements, which could lead to weight gain or prevent weight loss, even while on medication. This can reduce the effectiveness of Saxenda.
Additionally, overeating can also cause other health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and different types of cancer.
Some other symptoms caused by overeating include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Heartburn or acid reflux
- joint pain
- depression and anxiety
- headaches
- fatigue
- bloating
When using Saxenda, it’s best to stick to a healthy diet and enjoy food in moderation.
Tips for managing hunger on Saxenda
Managing hunger while on Saxenda involves both physical and psychological strategies. Here are some tips that might help:
- Maintain regular eating habits: Skipping meals can cause overeating later in the day. Try to have regular and balanced meals, along with healthy snacks, to keep your metabolism steady and avoid those crazy hunger pangs.
- Choose fiber-rich foods: Choose foods that are high in fiber, like avocado, apple, sweet potatoes, lentils, whole grains, etc, which can help you feel fuller longer.
- Protein is key: Including protein in every meal can help you feel full for longer by slowing down digestion.
- Stay hydrated: Sometimes, we misinterpret thirst as hunger. Drinking plenty of water during the day can help manage hunger levels and keep you hydrated.
- Practice mindful eating: Pay attention to what you’re eating and savor each bite. This can totally help you enjoy your meals and snacks more and might make you feel extra satisfied.
- Prioritize sufficient sleep: Lack of sleep can stimulate hunger and appetite. Ensure you’re getting enough rest each night to help regulate hunger signals.
Keep in mind, that it’s important to seek personalized advice and guidance from your doctor or a dietitian before before making any changes to your diet.
Conclusion
Although Saxenda can aid in weight loss, it’s worth noting that everyone’s response may differ. If you are still experiencing hunger while taking Saxenda, consider discussing it with your healthcare provider. By understanding what causes hunger and using strategies to control it, you can maximize the benefits of Saxenda and support your weight loss journey.
Remember, Saxenda is just one component of a comprehensive weight management plan. To achieve lasting success in your weight loss journey, it’s important to incorporate healthy lifestyle habits like staying physically active and maintaining a balanced diet.
FAQ
Are there any side effects of taking Saxenda?
Yes, like any medication, Saxenda can have side effects. The most common ones include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, headache, and dizziness. Some people may also experience changes in taste, insomnia, or dry mouth. More rarely, Saxenda can cause pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, or kidney problems.
Is Saxenda effective without exercise?
Saxenda can still help to support weight loss even without exercise. However, it’s beneficial when used as part of a comprehensive weight management program that includes regular physical activity and a balanced diet.
Can I continue taking other medications while using Saxenda?
Yes, you can continue taking other medications while using Saxenda. However, it’s important to inform your doctor about all medications you’re currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. This ensures they can monitor for any potential drug interactions and adjust your treatment plan if needed.
How much weight can you lose on Saxenda in a month?
Clinical studies have shown that some people may lose between 5 to 10% of their initial body weight within 3 to 6 months when using Saxenda alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Therefore, for a person weighing 200 pounds, this would translate to a weight loss of approximately 10 to 20 pounds over this period or about 2.5 to 5 pounds per month.
What to do when you plateau on Saxenda?
If you experience a plateau in your weight loss progress while using Saxenda, don’t let it get you down. It’s natural for weight loss to slow down or even temporarily stop after an initial period of success. To break through the plateau, make some changes to your lifestyle. This includes enhancing your physical activity routine, adopting healthier eating habits, and ensuring adequate sleep.
