In a country where 70% of people are overweight or obese, nearly 49 million have Type 2 diabetes, and close to 100 million have prediabetes, it isn't surprising that diabetes/weight-loss medications such as Trulicity and Byetta are wildly popular.

These and other GLP-1 agonists — which trigger insulin release, block glucagon secretion, make you feel full longer, and decrease addictive cravings — are currently being taken by around 15 million American adults.

But if you have had a negative reaction to these medications (everything from gastrointestinal distress and headaches to itchiness, low blood sugar, and pancreatitis are possible), or simply want to avoid them, there are other ways to manage Type 2 diabetes and lose weight.

Upgrading your nutrition, getting 10,000 steps a day, and managing sleep and stress are very effective. LongevityPlaybook.com can provide the support and community that you need to take back control of your health.

However, these medications work for many people and we now know they do more than control Type 2 diabetes and promote weight loss. They help protect heart health and slow diabetes-related kidney problems.

Talk with your doctor about their pros and cons. If you do take them, it's important to do muscle-building exercises twice a week to avoid loss of muscle as you shed pounds.

And don't cruise the internet for "off-the-books" suppliers. Make sure you're taking the real thing, with no ineffective or unsafe ingredients.