AMARILLO, Texas (KFDA) – Obesity affects more than 40% of American adults and can lead to long-term health problems.
An Amarillo doctor says that while lifestyle changes are necessary to lose weight, it’s not easy for many people.
Weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Semaglutide have gained popularity among those trying to lose weight.
Some say the solution to obesity in America involves making lifestyle changes, including dieting, exercising and eating the right diet.
“Lifestyle changes are always a must to start. What we put into our bodies plays a very important role, as does diet and exercise. The most important thing is not to eat a lot of fried foods, fatty foods, fast food, anything that tastes good but is quick and cheap, easy to access. They are not good for our bodies,” said Dr. Jeff Josma, medical director of the Acute & Chronic Pain and Spine Center and the Texas Pain & Spine Institute.
While others claim that these drugs improve the health, lifespan, and quality of life of Americans.
“For people who have tried everything and are still struggling to reach their goal weight or are still struggling to lose weight, these peptides are, I don’t want to say a gift from God, but they are pros as far as helping you lose weight,” said Dr. Josma.
Body composition, genetics, access to healthy foods and more play a major role in becoming healthy and losing weight.
“All the drugs in the world will not replace a very poor diet and lack of exercise, so I recommend that people who take these peptides continue to work out and eat well,” Dr. Josma said.
Walking, exercising, and eating a healthy diet are a good place to start before talking with your doctor about starting these medications.
“All together, they will act in synergy. So, relying on just one thing, just one pill or just working out without changing your diet will not get you the best results. But by combining all of this, I think you will find that you are at your best,” said Dr. Josma.
Copyright 2025 KFDA. All rights reserved.