The new weight-reduction drugs have revolutionized our approach to weight control. The drugs have many overlapping actions in the brain and body, however, in general they all mimic the actions of natural gut hormones. The drugs have many biochemical benefits, such as reducing the risk of insulin resistance and promoting fat breakdown. However, the drugs are effective primarily because they reduce feelings of hunger while increasing feelings of fullness. Essentially, we simply don’t feel like eating. That’s all. People consume fewer calories and they lose weight. Lots of weight. This week, one company reported that their new GLP-1 drug produced a 30% reduction in body weight. These drugs are producing truly life-altering results for a large portion of our society that will have long-term consequences on the cost of health care for millions of people. All this from a pill (or injection). The most interesting aspect of the clinical trials was that none of them involved having the subjects exercise. The implication is that calorie restriction alone is sufficient to lose significant amounts of weight.

Which is more effective: exercise or a drug-induced loss of appetite?

In a review of 32 randomized controlled trials that involved a total of 4,774 participants with obesity, the average loss of weight of those who participated in a regular exercise routine, as compared to controls without exercise, was small; only about 2 kg. Nationwide surveys show that 43% of Americans........

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