Why Weight Loss Medications Should Focus on Health Gain, Not Just Numbers
By Dr. Harriet Treacy, Founder of Beyondbmi
Introduction
At the recent European Congress on Obesity (ECO) in Málaga, a new chapter in obesity treatment was written. Among the standout presentations was the SURMOUNT-5 trial, comparing two powerful medications—tirzepatide (Mounjaro) and semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy). While the weight loss results were headline-grabbing, Dr. Harriet Treacy, co-founder of Beyondbmi, offers a different perspective: what if we focused more on health gain, and less on the number on the scales?
A Shift in Perspective on Obesity Treatment
In the SURMOUNT-5 trial, tirzepatide achieved an average 20% weight loss compared to 14% for semaglutide. It’s tempting to chase the next best thing—but Dr. Treacy urges caution. Obesity is a chronic, relapsing disease, and managing it requires long-term, sustainable care. Switching medications just for a few extra pounds may reinforce outdated, diet-culture thinking.
“If someone is already doing well on semaglutide, tolerates it, and has easy access—why switch just for more weight loss?”
Why ‘Health Gain’ is the Real Goal
At Beyondbmi, the conversation around obesity starts with function, mobility, and quality of life, not kilos.
Health gain looks like:
Walking without pain.
Climbing stairs without breathlessness.
Returning to work or engaging socially.
Feeling emotionally better and more connected.
When weight loss is the only goal, we risk sidelining these deeper improvements.
“Feeling better in your body and being able to do what matters—these are the wins that matter most.”
Safe, Effective... But Misunderstood
Anti-obesity medications are often feared due to sensational headlines. But serious side effects are rare. At Beyondbmi, the most common are mild nausea or constipation—typically manageable with proper support and dose adjustment.
The key? A multidisciplinary team:
Dietitians guide nutrition during treatment
Psychologists help reshape relationships with food
Pharmacists ensure drug safety
Doctors monitor progress and side effects
These meds are not “magic bullets,” but with the right care, they can be life-changing.
The Hidden Cost of Weight Bias
Obesity still faces stigma—even in healthcare. Patients often report being dismissed, judged, or told to “just lose weight” without support.
“I was told to lose weight before they’d even refer me to a specialist.”
This bias delays treatment and hurts trust. Obesity is a recognized disease, and not treating it carries greater risk: heart disease, diabetes, stroke, even cancer.
Weight bias skews public discussion, focusing on risks of treatment and ignoring the very real risks of inaction.
Beyond the Scale: Real-World Benefits
Patients at Beyondbmi talk less about the scale—and more about life:
“I can go on city breaks with my family again.”
“I can play with my kids without feeling breathless.”
A Call for Compassionate, Ongoing Care
Here’s what truly makes these medications successful:
Proper clinical oversight
Education around side effects
Support with food, behavior, and emotional health
Access to regulated, trustworthy providers
Without this care, many patients discontinue treatment within a year. That’s why Beyondbmi is designed around accessibility, education, and whole-person care—all from home.
“These medications work best when people are supported in managing obesity as the complex, chronic disease that it is.”
Final Thoughts
Weight loss medications are transforming what’s possible—but only when used properly, with health gain as the goal. At Beyondbmi, we believe in moving beyond numbers, beyond stigma, and beyond BMI.
Tried weight loss meds and felt alone?
Explore our medically-led, at-home program at Beyondbmi — designed to help you treat obesity with compassionate care, not just weight loss. Start your personalized journey to better health today.