Weight loss injections have become a headline topic, but the buzz often skips over the fine print. They can lead to impressive results for some people, yet health experts keep pointing out the potential risks and the fact that medication alone does not address what drives weight gain in the first place. Mike Wakeman, a pharmacist and founder of Evera Nutrition, says these drugs largely work by boosting gut hormones linked to appetite and fullness, which can make eating less feel easier. The trouble, he argues, is that many people stop there.
Wakeman notes that issues like chronic stress, poor sleep, alcohol overuse, habitual overeating, and even certain medications or hormone and medical conditions can quietly push the scale up. If those drivers are left untouched, they can still cause problems when treatment ends and may contribute to regaining weight. He also highlights that side effects are common with injections, including nausea, vomiting, constipation, and reflux, along with more serious concerns that have been reported in some individuals. Rapid weight loss can also come with downsides such as loss of muscle mass, and some people report other unsettling changes.
That is where the idea of a more natural support plan comes in. Wakeman points to growing interest in compounds found in foods and supplements that may support satiety, blood sugar balance, or metabolism when paired with practical lifestyle changes. He describes these ingredients as potentially helping the body in ways that overlap with the appetite and fullness pathways involved in GLP-1 style medications, though they are not the same as prescription drugs. The takeaway is not a magic shortcut, but a toolkit that can be used alongside healthier routines.
His list starts with glucomannan, a fiber from the konjac plant that swells in the stomach and can help you feel full sooner. Resveratrol, found in foods such as grapes, has been studied for its possible effects on body weight measures. Hibiscus is also mentioned for research that links it with improvements in body fat and blood lipids. Green tea, especially its catechins, is frequently discussed for supporting small shifts in weight, waist size, and fat burning.
Wakeman also calls out berberine and curcumin, both popular in supplement form, with studies suggesting potential benefits for weight-related markers in some people. Cinnamon makes the cut for its reputation in supporting steadier blood sugar, which can matter when cravings hit. Mulberry is included for research exploring its role in weight management and metabolic support. He adds that several of these compounds are being studied for how they may affect enzymes that break down gut hormones, although the science is still evolving and results vary.
Have you tried any of these ingredients as part of a realistic weight loss routine, and did you notice a difference in cravings or consistency? Share your experience in the comments.
