Dr Ula: WHO says GLP-1s are most effective when used with a structured program.
- Dr Ula Heywood
- 18 hours ago
- 2 min read
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has released its first guidelines for the use of GLP-1 medications - such as semaglutide (Wegovy), liraglutide (Saxenda) and tirzepatide (Zepbound) - for adults living with obesity.
GLP-1s are helpful but not a stand-alone solution
The WHO is clear: these medications support weight loss, but they aren’t the whole answer. Obesity is a chronic, lifelong condition, and they say GLP-1s are most effective when used with a structured program of:
Healthy eating
Regular movement
Ongoing lifestyle and behavioural coaching
Resistance training to protect muscle mass
As Dr. Louis Arrone of Weill Cornell Medicine notes, the medications often make it easier for people to follow nutrition guidance because hunger decreases and cravings soften - but medication must work with lifestyle change, not replace it. We agree.
A shift in global health thinking
WHO's guidance signals a turning point: treating obesity early and seriously, rather than waiting for complications like type 2 diabetes or heart disease to emerge.
As WHO puts it, nations should “reboot” their approach to obesity—strengthening prevention, treatment, and systems-level capacity to tackle a rapidly growing public-health crisis.
Autonomy’s GLP-1 system for lasting health results
Autonomy turn a quick fix into lifelong health. We don’t just prescribe a medication and send you home. We give you the full system to transform your health:
Know your baseline: Biomarkers and a 45-minute doctor consult to reveal your root causes and the right tools for real change.
Your plan, your pace: Nutrition, movement, mindset — tailored to you and powered by GLP-1 support.
Monitor, tweak, optimise: Monthly check-ins, 3D scans, and smart dosing to keep results safe, strong, and on track
Results that last: Build habits that stick, avoid rebound, and secure lasting health results.
GLP-1s are the starting line, not the finish line. Used the right way, they’re a reset button that buys the time to create healthy muscle, metabolism and habits that last for life.
Now is your moment
If you're interested in using GLP1's for weight loss and life long health book now.
Dr. Ula
Co-Founder and Lead Physician, Autonomy
Reference: WHO issues global guideline on the use of GLP-1 medicines in treating obesity
