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Diet vs Medication: What Works Best for Weight Loss in the Philippines?

Written by Maria Maureen Ablen

Published 03/18/2025

Updated 03/27/2025

Weight loss is a goal for many Filipinos, whether for health reasons, increased confidence, or improved mobility. But when it comes to shedding extra pounds, the biggest debate is often: Should you rely on diet alone, or is weight loss medication a better option?

For some, diet and exercise are enough to reach their weight loss goals. Others, especially those struggling with obesity or weight-related conditions, may need the added support of prescription medications. But which approach works best? And how do you decide which one is right for you?

This guide explores the effectiveness of diet-based weight loss vs. prescription medication and how Filipinos can make an informed choice.

The Role of Diet in Weight Loss

For most people, weight loss starts with caloric balance—burning more calories than you consume. But not all diets work the same way, and some are more sustainable than others. In the Philippines, common weight loss diets include:

1. Calorie-Deficit Diet

A calorie-deficit diet is the foundation of all weight loss approaches. By consuming fewer calories than your body burns, you force it to use stored fat for energy.

Works best when combined with exercise.
Requires portion control and mindful eating.
Filipino-friendly adjustments: Reducing white rice intake, switching to brown rice or quinoa, and limiting processed foods.

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that individuals who maintained a calorie deficit for 12 months lost an average of 10% of their body weight.

2. Low-Carb & Keto Diets

The low-carb and ketogenic (keto) diets work by drastically reducing carbohydrate intake, forcing the body to burn fat instead of sugar for energy.

Popular for fast weight loss, but difficult to maintain.
Common Filipino-friendly foods: Eggs, seafood, lean meats, coconut oil, avocados.
Risk: May cause nutrient deficiencies and fatigue if not well-planned.

A review in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism showed that low-carb dieters lost more weight than those on a traditional low-fat diet over six months.

3. Intermittent Fasting (IF)

Intermittent fasting (IF) cycles between periods of eating and fasting, typically within a 16:8 window (16 hours fasting, 8 hours eating).

Helps regulate blood sugar levels and promote fat burning.
Can be paired with Filipino meal plans, like skipping breakfast and eating only from 12 PM to 8 PM.
Not ideal for individuals prone to binge eating.

A study published in Obesity Reviews found that intermittent fasting led to 3-8% weight loss over 3-24 weeks, making it an effective short-term strategy.

4. The Role of Exercise in Weight Loss

While diet plays a crucial role, physical activity enhances fat burning, preserves muscle mass, and improves overall health.

Cardio exercises (running, cycling, swimming) help burn calories efficiently.
Strength training maintains muscle and increases metabolism.
Walking for 30-60 minutes daily can significantly contribute to weight loss.

A study in the Journal of Obesity found that individuals who combined exercise with dietary changes lost 20% more weight than those who relied on diet alone.

How Does Medication Compare to Diet?

Prescription weight loss medications are designed to support diet and exercise efforts, not replace them. They are often recommended for individuals who:

Have a BMI of 30 or higher.
Have a BMI of 27+ with obesity-related conditions like diabetes or hypertension.
Have tried diet and exercise but failed to achieve sustainable weight loss.

Common Weight Loss Medications in the Philippines

GLP-1 Medications (Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda)

Reduce hunger and increase satiety.
Shown to help patients lose 10-15% of body weight over time.
Requires a doctor’s prescription and regular monitoring.
Side effects: Nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort.

A New England Journal of Medicine study found that patients on semaglutide (Wegovy) lost an average of 14.9% of their body weight over 68 weeks.

Orlistat (Xenical)

Blocks the absorption of 30% of dietary fat.
Helps with long-term weight management.
Side effects: Oily stools, digestive discomfort.

A meta-analysis in The American Journal of Medicine confirmed that Orlistat users lost an average of 7.5% of their body weight over one year.

Phentermine-Topiramate (Qsymia)

Suppresses appetite and increases metabolism.
Helps patients lose 8-10% of body weight.
Side effects: Insomnia, increased heart rate.

A Lancet study found that patients using Phentermine-Topiramate lost 10% of their body weight over 56 weeks.

Comparing Diet vs. Medication: What Works Best?

Factor	Diet	Medication
Effectiveness	Moderate to High	High, especially with diet
Speed of Results	Slow to Moderate	Faster (5-15% weight loss in months)
Sustainability	Long-term	May require continuous use
Side Effects	None, unless poor diet choices	Potential nausea, stomach issues, or heart-related effects
Cost	Affordable	Expensive (GLP-1 drugs cost thousands per month)

Diet or Medication—Which Works Best?

For most Filipinos, a well-balanced diet and regular exercise are the best first steps to losing weight. They are safe, effective, and promote long-term health benefits beyond just weight loss. However, for individuals struggling with severe obesity or metabolic issues, prescription medication can provide valuable support.

Ultimately, the best approach is personalized—what works for one person may not work for another. The key to success is choosing an option you can stick with long-term while prioritizing overall health and well-being.

Maria Maureen Ablen

Dr. Maria Maureen Ablen is a board-certified medical professional with a strong background in clinical care, healthcare innovation, and academic research. She is dedicated to advancing health and wellness through evidence-based practice and compassionate care.