A prominent GP and TV medic, Dr. Hussain Al-Zubaidi, told fitness industry professionals in Bolton that relying on drugs alone will not solve obesity. Speaking at a professional development event for the health, fitness, and wellbeing sector at the Bolton Arena Community Sports Village, Dr. Al-Zubaidi emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach to tackling obesity.
Dr. Al-Zubaidi, who regularly appears on Channel 4’s *Steph’s Packed Lunch* and serves as the lifestyle and physical activity lead for the Royal College of General Practitioners, addressed attendees on the topic of GLP-1 drugs. These medications, often referred to as “fat jabs” or “fat pills,” are commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes and are gaining attention for their potential to aid weight loss by reducing appetite.
The rollout of GLP-1 drugs in primary care is a current hot topic, according to Dr. Al-Zubaidi. He noted that while these drugs are a significant development, healthcare providers should avoid focusing solely on medication. “As we introduce GLP-1 therapies, we must resist the temptation to settle for the minimal model of lifestyle support,” Dr. Al-Zubaidi said. “Our patients deserve more—a holistic approach that includes nutrition, behavioral and psychological support, stress and sleep management, physical activity, and addiction care.”
His comments come amid growing debate in the fitness sector about the role of GLP-1s in combating obesity. The event was organized by the LFX network in partnership with GM Active, a collective of 12 leisure and community organizations managing public leisure and physical activity facilities across Greater Manchester.
Andy King, chair of GM Active, described the event as a pivotal moment in the conversation on healthcare. “This will be seen as a turning point,” King stated. “Through this partnership, GM Active aims to better understand how we can support individuals using these tools to lose weight and maintain their results long term with practical, people-focused support.”
Dr. Al-Zubaidi praised the fitness professionals in attendance, encouraging them to turn their enthusiasm into action. He emphasized that their participation is key to transforming the approach to obesity treatment.
Neil Hutchinson, managing director of Bolton Arena, highlighted the importance of the event, noting that Bolton is developing a new health and wellbeing strategy. He expressed his commitment to ensuring that local GPs and primary care services are ready to integrate these healthcare advancements. “We want to be at the forefront of supporting this revolutionary change in healthcare,” Hutchinson said.
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