Unfortunately, with the proliferation of GLP-1 usage, and the resulting weight loss, we now have to look at those who develop an eating disorder, or worsen their current eating disorder, due to use. GLP-1s have been shown to have many positive effects beyond weight loss, but particularly in our society, it is understandable why so many are turning to these medications for weight loss, including those who are already at a healthy weight. For most, use of GLP-1s will not lead to development of an eating disorder; but for some, the weight loss will trigger the physiological and/or psychological underpinnings of an eating disorder. If this has happened to you, you are not to blame, and treatment can help.

The weight loss that comes with GLP-1s can trigger “starvation effects” in the brain. The weight loss alone, if it becomes too extreme, can lead your brain chemistry to alter in such a way that you no longer see yourself accurately and you can no longer easily make the choice to stop use and achieve a healthy weight. In this way, the weight loss triggers the same brain areas that are triggered in anorexia nervosa; therefore, the same treatment will benefit.

In addition, weight loss, and the resulting positive responses from others, can lead to what some might say is an “addiction” to weight loss. This can make it hard to stop even when it is healthiest for you to do so. Unfortunately, our society rewards weight loss heavily, even when it is not healthy for an individual. We all respond well to positive attention, and it makes sense that this would be even more difficult for those who have felt they have never gotten positive attention for their appearance. However, you are much more than your appearance; treatment can help you get to a more moderate place where you can accept being healthy. 

If you feel like your GLP-1 use has gotten out of control and you want help getting to a more moderate place, please get in touch.