GLP-1 Injections and Chinese Medicine: What You Should Know About Weight Management

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If you’ve been on social media lately, you’ve probably seen ads for GLP-1 injections for weight loss. Many people are curious: How do they work? What are the side effects? And does Chinese Medicine have its own way to help with weight management? Let’s take a look.

How GLP-1 Injections Work

GLP-1 medications (such as semaglutide and liraglutide) were first used for diabetes, but they are now also prescribed for weight loss. They help by:

• Slowing down digestion

• Helping you feel full longer

• Reducing appetite

• Improving blood sugar balance

Possible Side Effects

The most common side effects are stomach-related: nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea. Some people may also feel bloated or lose their appetite. Rare but more serious issues can happen too, which is why these medications should always be used under the care of a qualified doctor.

A Chinese Medicine Perspective

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) looks at weight not in terms of BMI, but by body type. Over 2,000 years ago, the Ling Shu described three kinds of body types prone to weight issues:

• Zhī type (脂人): soft, flabby body, easy to sweat, often linked to “dampness” and weakness of the Spleen.

• Gāo type (膏人): plump and oily, loves rich foods, often related to “damp-heat.”

• Ròu type (肉人): strong and muscular, but may develop high blood pressure or circulation problems.

In TCM, treatment is personalized. Acupuncture and herbal medicine are chosen based on each person’s body type and health condition, rather than using the same plan for everyone.

The Bottom Line

GLP-1 injections can be effective for weight management, but they’re not the only option. TCM takes a holistic approach, aiming to balance the body and address root causes.

Reference:

《灵枢·本藏》

《素问·奇病论》

《难经·四十七难》