Long-term weight loss: That's why we combine medication with lifestyle changes

In a time when “quick fixes” and quick cures are a big part of the health debate, we at Valida Health choose a different path. We believe that lasting weight loss requires an effort that goes deeper than the number on the scale – and that medication is only one part of the solution.

That's why we combine medical weight loss with lifestyle changes so that the results last in the long term - both physically and mentally.

Why medication alone is rarely enough

Weight loss medication can be an effective way to get started – especially for people who have been struggling with obesity for a long time. It can suppress appetite, stabilize blood sugar levels and give a much-needed boost to motivation.

But: Medicine alone rarely creates long-lasting results.

When treatment stops, many people quickly return to old habits if the foundation has not been changed. This is where the lifestyle part becomes crucial – because lasting weight loss requires new routines, not just a drug.

Our focus: Nutrition, movement and structure

At Valida Health, we combine medical treatment with concrete tools for a healthier everyday life. This includes, among other things:

• Nutrition advice – what works for your body and lifestyle

• Motivation for physical activity, adapted to your level and starting point

• Structure and follow-up so you are not alone

• Ongoing health checks that track your progress – not just your weight
  

Our goal is to help you build habits that last – even long after the medication's effects wear off.

Lifestyle coaching and sustainable habits

We work holistically. This means that we also talk to you about:

• Sleep and stress

• Eating patterns and habits

• Motivation and self-image

• Realistic goals and expectations
  

You don't get a standard plan – you get a course that is based on you.

For many, the first weight loss is the start of a positive spiral: More energy, better mood and the energy to make new, healthy choices.

Examples of long-term weight loss

Many of our patients have experienced:

• Weight loss of 8–15% of body weight over time

• Better sleep and lower blood pressure

• Increased physical activity

• Improved quality of life and body image

• Ongoing weight control – even after the end of treatment
  

We see it again and again: When medicine is combined with targeted efforts, results occur that last.

Here are four scientific sources on medical weight loss relevant to Valida Health's method. All show positive results and support the holistic approach:

1. Semaglutide (Wegovy) – STEP 5: 2-year clinical study

• Reference & findings: In the STEP 5 study, published in Nature Medicine, adults with overweight or obesity achieved -15.2% average weight loss over 104 weeks, compared to placebo.

• Brief description: Treatment with semaglutide 2.4 mg once weekly resulted in significant and sustained weight loss (<-15% after 2 years) without significant weight regain. Participants also experienced improvements in blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol.

• Relevance: Supports Valida Health's combined strategy of medication and follow-up for long-term results.

• Source

2. Semaglutide – systematic review & meta-analysis

• Reference & findings: A meta-analysis showed an average weight loss of ‐11.85% in people without diabetes with semaglutide treatment, compared to placebo.

• Short description: Based on four RCT studies with a total of 3,613 people, the analysis showed that semaglutide is both safe and effective as a weight loss treatment - with expected, mild side effects.

• Relevance: Strengthens the documentation for the treatment and shows efficacy without serious side effects – ideal for your patient information.

• Source

3. Tirzepatide (Zepbound/Mounjaro) vs Semaglutide – NEJM head-to-head study

• Reference & findings: In a 72-week randomized study, tirzepatide showed a weight reduction of approximately 20%, compared to 14% with semaglutide.

• Short description: In the study, 32% of those treated with tirzepatide achieved ≥25% weight loss – significantly better than with semaglutide (~16%).

• Relevance: Highlights Valida Health's access to the latest, most effective medicines and documents your ability to deliver top-tier treatment.

• Source

4. Retatrutide – new 3‑hormone receptor‑agonist

• Reference & findings: Retatrutide, presented in NEJM, resulted in “substantial reductions in body weight” over a 48-week study among adults with obesity.

• Brief description: This new class of treatment combines three hormone receptor agonists and has shown promising effects on weight loss in obese participants.

• Relevance: Emphasizes Valida Health's position as a clinic that actively follows and offers treatment with the most advanced medical options.

• Source

Confirmation of Valida Health's method

These studies all show that GLP-1-based drugs – and newer combination therapies – can:

1. Create significant and sustained weight loss (up to 15–20% over 1–2 years)

2. Supported by low and manageable side effects

3. Combine with lifestyle intervention for safe and long-lasting results

Ready for weight loss with a health focus?

If you want a weight loss program that is both effective and responsible, you are very welcome to contact us at Valida Health.

We help you create lasting change – with medicine, lifestyle and professional support as the foundation.

Read more about our weight loss treatment here