Call / Whatsapp
+918447748545

Published on: May 13, 2025
3 minute read
By: Secondmedic Expert

Semaglutide: A Game Changer For Weight Loss And Diabetes Control

Book your checkup

In today’s fast-paced world, managing health conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes has become a major challenge. With changing lifestyles, unhealthy eating habits, and limited physical activity, many people are struggling to stay fit. Among the latest breakthroughs in modern medicine, Semaglutide has emerged as a powerful solution to help manage these health issues effectively.

Let’s explore what Semaglutide is, how it works, its benefits, potential side effects, and why it’s creating a buzz in the healthcare industry.

What is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a medication originally developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists (glucagon-like peptide-1). These drugs mimic a hormone in your body that helps control blood sugar levels, especially after eating.

While Semaglutide was first used to manage blood glucose in diabetic patients, researchers soon discovered another incredible benefit—it significantly supports weight loss. This led to its growing popularity worldwide, not only among diabetics but also among individuals looking for effective weight management solutions.

How Does Semaglutide Work?

Semaglutide works in several ways to improve your health:

Regulates Blood Sugar: It helps the pancreas release insulin when blood sugar levels are high and reduces the amount of sugar produced by the liver.
Delays Gastric Emptying: It slows down how quickly food leaves your stomach, helping you feel full longer after eating.
Reduces Appetite: It acts on the brain's appetite control centers, reducing hunger and helping you eat less.

By combining these effects, Semaglutide helps in controlling diabetes and promoting significant weight loss, making it a dual-purpose medication.

Semaglutide for Weight Loss

In clinical studies, people taking Semaglutide experienced substantial weight loss—often more than 10% of their body weight. This is particularly important for those who are obese or overweight, as excess weight increases the risk of many chronic diseases like:

Heart disease
High blood pressure
Sleep apnea
Joint problems
Type 2 diabetes

With lifestyle changes like a healthy diet and regular exercise, Semaglutide can be a game-changer in reversing or preventing these conditions.

Is Semaglutide Approved in India?

Yes, Semaglutide is approved for use in India. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has approved its tablet form under the brand name Rybelsus and the injectable form under Ozempic for type 2 diabetes treatment.

Moreover, the higher dose formulation for weight loss—Wegovy—is expected to launch in India soon. With rising obesity rates and lifestyle-related health issues, the Indian market is seeing a growing demand for this medication.

Who Should Consider Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is generally recommended for:

Adults with type 2 diabetes who need better blood sugar control
People who are overweight or obese and struggle with weight loss
Individuals at risk of heart disease due to diabetes or obesity

However, it’s not a magic pill. Semaglutide works best when combined with a healthy lifestyle, including nutritious eating and regular physical activity.

Note: This medication should be taken under the guidance of a qualified doctor.

How is Semaglutide Taken?

Semaglutide is available in two forms:

Tablet (Rybelsus): Taken once daily by mouth on an empty stomach, with water.
Injection (Ozempic / Wegovy): Given once a week via a pen-like device.

Doctors usually start with a low dose and gradually increase it to minimize side effects.

Benefits of Semaglutide

Here are some of the top benefits of Semaglutide:

Effective blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes
Significant and sustained weight loss
Reduced risk of cardiovascular events
Improved insulin sensitivity
Lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels

These benefits make it one of the most advanced treatments available for metabolic health.

Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, Semaglutide may cause some side effects. Most are mild and go away with time.

Common side effects:

Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Constipation
Headache

Serious but rare side effects:

Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
Kidney problems
Allergic reactions

If you notice any unusual symptoms, it’s important to consult your doctor immediately.

Tips for Getting the Best Results with Semaglutide

Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
Do not skip doses. Take it regularly at the same time.
Stay active. Include at least 30 minutes of exercise daily.
Eat a balanced diet rich in vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains.
Monitor your blood sugar levels if you’re diabetic.

Is Semaglutide Safe for Long-Term Use?

Yes, long-term studies have shown that Semaglutide is generally safe and effective for extended use in both diabetes and obesity treatment. However, regular monitoring and follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential.

Why is Semaglutide in the News?

Semaglutide has become a trending topic not only in medical journals but also on social media. Celebrities and influencers are sharing their weight loss journeys, boosting its popularity.

Even in India, interest in Semaglutide has skyrocketed due to its effectiveness and availability. The upcoming launch of Wegovy is likely to increase awareness even further.

Conclusion: Should You Consider Semaglutide?

If you’re struggling with type 2 diabetes or weight loss, Semaglutide could be a powerful tool to help you get your health back on track. With its proven results, once-weekly or daily dosing, and dual benefits, it’s a smart option for many.

However, always consult a healthcare professional to see if it’s right for your specific needs.

Take the first step towards better health today – ask your doctor if Semaglutide is right for you.

Book your checkup

Read FAQs

A. Semaglutide is used to manage type 2 diabetes and aid in weight loss by regulating blood sugar and reducing appetite.

A. Yes, Semaglutide is available in India under brand names like Rybelsus and Ozempic, with Wegovy expected soon.

A. Most people notice improved blood sugar levels within a few weeks, while noticeable weight loss usually occurs within 8–12 weeks.

A. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Serious side effects are rare but possible.

A. Yes, Semaglutide is a prescription medication and should only be used under medical supervision.

Read Blog

Hidden Sodium in Indian Foods – Why It Matters

When we think of salty foods, items like chips, pickles, and papads usually come to mind. But what if we told you that many everyday Indian dishes — the ones we consider "normal" or even "healthy" — are loaded with hidden sodium? This is especially important because excess salt (sodium) is a major factor behind rising cases of high blood pressure, heart disease, and kidney problems in India.

Let’s understand what hidden sodium is, why it is found in so many Indian foods, and how it silently affects your health.

What Is Sodium and Why Do We Need It?

Sodium is a mineral that our body needs in small amounts. It helps in:

Controlling blood pressure
Balancing fluids in the body
Supporting muscle and nerve function

But the key word here is “small” amounts.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an adult should not consume more than 2,000 mg of sodium per day — roughly one teaspoon of salt. However, studies show that Indians are consuming twice that amount, and often without realizing it.

What Is Hidden Sodium?

Hidden sodium refers to the salt content in foods that don’t taste salty or where you don’t expect salt. This includes:

Ready-made spice blends
Pickles and chutneys
Snacks like bhujia, samosas, or farsan
Bakery items like bread, biscuits, and cakes
Canned or preserved foods
Processed or packaged items like instant noodles or ready-to-eat meals

You might not sprinkle extra salt on these foods, but they already contain high levels of sodium.

Common Indian Foods High in Hidden Sodium

Here are some everyday foods that may surprise you with their sodium levels:

1. Pickles and Papads

Almost every Indian household has pickles and papads. A single spoon of pickle or a piece of papad can have 200-300 mg of sodium. We eat them as sides, but they add up quickly in your daily intake.

2. Spice Mixes and Masalas

Store-bought masalas like garam masala, chaat masala, and pav bhaji masala often contain added salt to enhance flavor. Every spoon you add means more sodium, even if you don’t add salt separately.

3. Instant and Packaged Foods

Instant noodles, soups, and snacks like sev, murukku, or mixture are loaded with salt to preserve them and enhance taste. Even a small packet can exceed 1,000 mg sodium!

4. Street Food

Street foods like chaat, vada pav, samosa, and pakoras are often seasoned heavily with salty masalas, chutneys, and sauces.

5. Restaurant & Takeaway Food

Curries, biryanis, dals, and even roti or naan from restaurants contain more salt than home-cooked food. Chefs add salt multiple times – during marination, cooking, and seasoning.

How Hidden Sodium Affects Your Health

1. High Blood Pressure

Sodium pulls water into the bloodstream, increasing blood volume. This raises your blood pressure, putting strain on the heart.

2. Heart Disease & Stroke

Over time, high blood pressure damages arteries, leading to heart attacks and strokes — two of the biggest killers in India.

3. Kidney Damage

Excess sodium makes kidneys work harder, and over time, they may fail to remove toxins efficiently.

4. Water Retention and Bloating

High sodium causes your body to hold on to extra water, making you feel puffy and bloated.

5. Increased Risk of Osteoporosis

Too much salt can cause the body to lose calcium, leading to weak bones over time.

Why Is This a Bigger Issue in India?

Cultural habits: We love flavor, and salt enhances taste. From spicy pickles to tangy chaat, salt is everywhere in Indian cuisine.
Lack of awareness: Many people don’t know that even “non-salty” foods like biscuits or bread have sodium.
No clear labeling: Many Indian packaged foods don’t clearly mention sodium levels.
Rising packaged food consumption: Urban lifestyles mean more reliance on processed foods.

How to Reduce Hidden Sodium in Your Diet

You don’t need to give up your favorite Indian foods — just make smarter choices:

Read Labels

Look for “low sodium” or “no added salt” options in packaged foods. Check the nutrition panel for sodium content.

Cook at Home

Cooking at home gives you full control over how much salt you use. Avoid adding salt to rice or chapati dough.

Limit Pickles, Papads & Chutneys

Enjoy these in moderation — they are sodium bombs. Use smaller portions or make low-salt versions at home.

Cut Back on Packaged Snacks

Instead of salted namkeen, go for roasted chana, fresh fruits, or homemade snacks.

Use Herbs & Spices

Flavor your food with herbs like coriander, mint, curry leaves, or spices like cumin, turmeric, ginger, garlic, and mustard. They add taste without the salt.

Avoid Extra Table Salt

Don’t sprinkle salt on salads, curd, or fruits. Train your taste buds to enjoy food with less salt.

Hydrate Well

Drink enough water daily — it helps flush out excess sodium from the body.

A Word for Those With Health Issues

If you have high blood pressure, kidney issues, or are at risk of heart disease, you need to be even more careful. Talk to your doctor or a dietitian about a low-sodium diet plan suitable for your lifestyle.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Sodium Stay Hidden

Sodium is essential in small amounts, but hidden sodium in Indian foods is putting your health at risk — quietly, every day. The problem is not just about adding less salt; it's about knowing where the salt is hiding.

Start small — read food labels, choose fresh over processed, and use herbs to flavor your meals. With a little awareness and effort, you can take control of your salt intake and protect your long-term health.

Take the first step towards a healthier heart and body by learning more about hidden sodium in Indian foods – why it matters.

Request A Callback

+91

By using this website/app, I confirm that I am at least 18 years old and consent to the processing of my personal data in accordance with the Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and Declaration.