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Smarty plants? Controversial plant-intelligence studies explored in new book

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The Light Eaters: How the Unseen World of Plant Intelligence Offers a New Understanding of Life on Earth Zoë Schlanger Harper (2024)

During the COVID-19 pandemic, while people were tucked away in their homes, a love for house plants spread at the same time as the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Journalist Zoë Schlanger was one of the people drawn to plants. Having spent years reporting on climate change and environmental pollution, as well as its associated health effects, she wanted to engage with something “that felt wonderful and alive”. In The Light Eaters, Schlanger puts her unabashed fascination with plants on full display, as she asks whether these organisms are, in their own way, intelligent.

Schlanger begins by discussing the effect of the controversial 1973 book The Secret Life of Plants, in which Peter Tompkins and Christopher Bird proposed that “plants are living, breathing, communicating creatures, endowed with personality and the attributes of soul”. The book garnered wide public interest but was viewed with distain by many botanists and plant scientists, who considered it pseudoscience. As a result, many researchers became wary of studying plant awareness and behaviour.

Other, more-cautious studies have popped up since. Schlanger vividly outlines how Peruvian botanist Ernesto Gianoli, for instance, has found that the vine Boquila trifoliolata can change the shape of its leaves to mimic those of neighbouring plants, perhaps to prevent herbivores from eating it. Plant scientist Heidi Appel and biologist Rex Cocroft have shown how vibrations along plant leaves — triggered by caterpillars chewing on them — lead to the plant producing defensive chemicals. And botanist Simon Gilroy tells Schlanger about how plants respond to physical stimulation. For example, injury to the roots triggers waves of electrical activity that allow plants to sense and avoid physical obstacles in the soil. Schlanger’s well-crafted descriptions provide a rare and welcome glimpse into the humanity and dedication of botanists.

Nonetheless, the author finds that the concepts of plant intelligence, sentience, consciousness and agency are still anathema to most plant scientists. “I began to learn what to say — or, more accurately, not say — to keep a scientist on the phone,” she notes.

Ultimately, Schlanger concludes that plants are creative and intelligent, even if their intelligence is distinct from that of humans.

As a plant scientist, I am fascinated by what draws us to wanting to define plants as sentient or conscious — or not — through the lens of our limited human understanding of those terms. I agree with Schlanger that plants are aware, responsive and communicative. I also think that human consciousness is neither the beginning nor the end of a definition of consciousness in our vast and complex Universe. In this, my opinions differ from those of others in the field, who are more dogmatic about the definitions of consciousness and intelligence.

Evolving ideas

In places, Schlanger’s assertions are likely to rile researchers. The author notes, for instance, that “no one quite knows what a plant really is”. True, there’s still much to learn about plants and what they are capable of, but few botanists or plant scientists would suggest they don’t know what plants are. And her description of botany as “a field in true turmoil” lacks nuance. Vigorous debates about competing hypotheses and conflicting data are part of a healthy scientific ecosystem.

Part of the challenge, I think, is that Schlanger’s understanding of plant science is still growing and could be refined by engaging with a broader range of literature. The author often presents the findings of a single article or researcher as a general principle. For example, the idea that plants can ‘hear’ caterpillars chewing on them is a phenomenon that has mainly been reported by one research team.

A Monarch butterfly caterpillar in lush foliage in a natural habitat.

A caterpillar chewing on leaves could trigger a plant’s defence system.Credit: Getty

And at times, she seems overly committed to championing an enthralling idea rather than facts for which hard evidence is available. Take work by plant scientist Monica Gagliano, whose studies some researchers have suggested are flawed. One, for instance, showed that peas can learn to associate the sound of water flowing through a pipe with a need to reorient their growth towards the water source — but sound can cause physical vibrations in the air that can be sensed as touch. Thus, whether the plants were responding strictly to the sound of water or to physical vibrations remains unresolved. Schlanger suggests that Gagliano’s study design “may have been faulty, but her ideas were good”. Yet scientists by and large want good ideas to be paired with a solid experimental design, to ensure that the research has biologically sound underpinnings.

The author sometimes falls into the trap of assuming that topics that have recently become trendy are ‘new’. Yet it is relatively common for scientific phenomena to be proposed tens or even hundreds of years before researchers have the techniques and technologies needed to detect them. The ‘language of scent’ is a good example of this. Researchers are now uncovering molecular details about how plants produce, detect and respond to ‘volatile organic compounds’. But the idea that these compounds have key roles in pollination and other processes was first proposed in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries by naturalists Christian Konrad Sprengel, Charles Darwin and others (R. Delle-Vedove et al. Ann. Bot. 120, 1–20; 2017).

Similarly, the idea that plants exchange information with others in their community has been around since the early 1980s (I. T. Baldwin and J. C. Schultz Science 221, 277–279; 1983). I wish that Schlanger had acknowledged this more often, because I worry that scientific communities’ tendency to erroneously say that they are the first to report a phenomenon can make it hard for the general public to trust researchers.

Nonetheless, The Light Eaters overflows with the author’s infectious enthusiasm. Plant lovers will find much of interest in the Schlanger’s inspiring tale of where her curious mind has led her. I, too, try to lead with enthusiasm when communicating plant science. Although we might not agree on everything, in Schlanger I’ve found a kindred spirit.

Competing Interests

The author declares no competing interests.

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Inside NVIDIA HQ the offices of a $2 Trillion company explored

Inside NVIDIA HQ the offices of a $2 Trillion company explored

Imagine stepping into a workspace that’s not just an office but a hub of innovation, where the design itself inspires creativity and collaboration. That’s what you’ll find at NVIDIA’s headquarters in the bustling tech epicenter of Silicon Valley. The Santa Clara, California campus, with its two main buildings, Endeavor and Voyager inspired by Star Trek, covers a vast area of 1.25 million square feet and is a reflection of NVIDIA’s pioneering spirit in the tech industry.

Inside NVIDIA HQ Offices outside

As you walk through the doors of this impressive campus, you’ll notice how the company has harnessed the power of natural light. NVIDIA has used its own cutting-edge visualization tools to create an environment that maximizes sunlight, reducing the need for artificial lighting and enhancing the well-being of its employees. The office space is bathed in light filtered through 511 triangular skylights, a clever design choice that not only illuminates but also showcases NVIDIA’s flair for innovation.

NVIDIA Offices

Inside NVIDIA Voyager Offices

  • Architectural designs inspired by NVIDIA’s chips and the company’s focus on 3D graphics, with a recurring triangle motif.
  • The campus includes two buildings named Endeavor and Voyager, with Star Trek-inspired names and an outdoor park connecting them.
  • Endeavor and Voyager buildings, offer 500,000 and 750,000 square feet respectively.
  • The “Heart” of Endeavor and the “Mountain” in Voyager, central areas designed to encourage interaction and provide active spaces like reception, conference rooms, and coffee breaks.
  • Open office layouts in both buildings to enhance collaboration among the approximately 5,000 employees, with acoustical design features to manage noise.
  • An emphasis on visual connections to facilitate quick iteration and deeper relationships, supported by findings from an MIT study.
  • Numerous staircases and strategically placed elevators to promote movement and encounters among staff.
  • Efficient pathways and shortcuts, including a two-minute connection between the two buildings.
  • 511 triangular skylights to control lighting, with certain areas like the center of the mountain intentionally shielded from daylight to accommodate lab spaces.
  • Integration of greenery, including an 80-foot living wall in Endeavor and over 14,000 plants in Voyager, to balance the technological environment.
  • NVIDIA hints at the potential for future expansion and the use of AI in the design and construction of additional buildings.

Guided tour of NVIDIA’s HQ workspaces

The architecture of the headquarters is a nod to NVIDIA’s heritage in 3D graphics. Triangles, the fundamental element of 3D rendering, are a recurring motif throughout the campus. This design choice is not just about aesthetics; it’s a constant visual stimulus for the staff, reminding them of the core products that have shaped the company’s success.

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The layout of the Endeavor and Voyager buildings is open and airy, designed to bring together the 5,000 employees who work there. This openness is complemented by acoustical design elements that strike the perfect balance between the lively energy of teamwork and the need for individual focus and quiet.

One of the most striking features of the design is the emphasis on visual connections. Central areas like the “heart” of Endeavor and the “mountain” in Voyager serve as communal hubs. These spaces are more than just meeting points; they’re strategic areas that encourage quick exchanges of ideas and foster strong relationships among colleagues, echoing findings from MIT on the importance of such interactions.

The headquarters is built to encourage movement and chance meetings. With staircases and elevators strategically placed to connect different areas, the campus is designed for dynamic interaction. A quick two-minute walk is all it takes to move between the two main buildings, underscoring the company’s focus on a vibrant, collaborative work environment.

NVIDIA Voyager and Park Offices

But it’s not all about technology and design. Greenery is an essential part of the NVIDIA campus. The Endeavor building features an 80-foot living wall, and Voyager is adorned with over 14,000 plants. These natural elements provide a serene counterbalance to the high-tech surroundings, offering employees a place to recharge and find inspiration away from their screens.

NVIDIA isn’t stopping here. The company is looking to the future, planning to incorporate AI into the design and construction of its next buildings. This forward-thinking approach shows NVIDIA’s dedication to using its own technologies to push the boundaries of workplace design.

The NVIDIA headquarters stands as a space that not only optimizes work conditions but also nurtures a culture of collaboration and well-being. By integrating its advanced technology into every aspect of its office design, NVIDIA has crafted a work environment that goes beyond the conventional, creating a place where innovation is not just developed but lived and breathed by its workforce.

Image Credit :  NVIDIA and Gensler  Jason O’Rear Photography

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New Copilot VSC AI coding assistant chat features explored & more

New Copilot VSC AI coding assistant chat features explored and more

Visual Studio Code has recently rolled out new enhancements to its Copilot extension, which are set to transform the way developers work. These updates are designed to make coding more intuitive and efficient, providing intelligent support that understands the context of your project.

At the forefront of these enhancements is the Copilot Chat, which now features context-aware agents. These AI agents are akin to having a knowledgeable colleague by your side, ready to help you navigate complex code or untangle programming challenges. They’re not just responsive; they’re proactive, offering guidance that feels like a natural extension of your thought process.

Copilot is not just another coding tool; it’s an AI-driven companion that interacts with you in real-time. The Chat feature allows for a text-based conversation with Copilot, giving you the ability to ask for code examples, clarify doubts, and seek advice without leaving your coding environment. This seamless integration is aimed at streamlining your workflow and enhancing your productivity.

New Copilot chat features

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New Microsoft Copilot AI coding assistant features

  • When dealing with complex code or large repositories, the Chat feature of Copilot becomes particularly useful. It can help unravel complicated data structures and navigate through extensive codebases. This makes Copilot a valuable asset when you’re trying to quickly get up to speed with new projects.
  • The introduction of slash commands is a significant step forward, allowing you to perform actions or ask questions quickly. For example, simply typing “/build” can trigger the build process for your application, all without leaving the chat interface. This seamless integration of commands into the chat streamlines your workflow and keeps you focused on coding.
  • Another key update is the hash command, which provides instant access to contextual help. By entering a hash symbol followed by a command, you can pull up instructions relevant to your current task, such as running your project as outlined in the README file. This feature makes it easier to find the information you need without breaking your stride.
  • For those who manage their code with version control systems, the new automated commit message generation is a boon. Copilot can now suggest commit messages that accurately reflect the changes you’ve made, helping to maintain a clear and informative project history.
  • The VS Code Speech extension is a groundbreaking addition for developers who prefer or require voice commands. This speech-to-text functionality allows you to dictate commands to Copilot, which could not only improve accessibility but also speed up your coding process.
  • The inline chat feature is another innovation that keeps track of your session’s context. It offers personalized code snippets and can even calculate local times based on your previous interactions, ensuring a more consistent and customized coding experience.
  • When you run into errors in the terminal, Copilot now steps in with quick fixes and explanations. This feature is invaluable for learning from your mistakes and avoiding similar issues in the future, enhancing your coding skills with each session.
  • The update has also improved interactions with code blocks for shell languages, including a “run in terminal” action. This makes it much easier to test and debug scripts right from the editor, saving time and simplifying the development process.
  • The terminal has also been upgraded to offer enhanced command suggestions. With a simple keyboard shortcut, you can now access a curated list of shell command recommendations, which can increase your productivity and introduce you to new command-line techniques.

How to use Copilot chat

Integrating an AI assistant like Copilot into your development process might seem intimidating at first, especially for experienced developers with established routines. It’s important to consider how Copilot can fit into your existing practices and whether it will improve your efficiency. The goal is to ensure that the tool complements your workflow rather than complicates it.

Copilot also offers voice interaction, catering to those who prefer speaking to typing. This feature provides an additional method to communicate with the AI, making the tool even more accessible. Moreover, user feedback is crucial for the ongoing development of Copilot. By sharing your experiences with the tool, you help shape its future, ensuring that it meets the needs of the developer community.

The Chat feature of Copilot is a significant step forward in the realm of AI-assisted coding. By utilizing directives like “@workspace,” you can tailor the AI’s assistance to your specific project needs. This could make Copilot an indispensable part of your development toolkit. However, it’s vital to remain mindful of how it fits into your workflow and to contribute to its continuous improvement through your feedback.

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6 Observability myths in AIOps explored by IBM

myths in AIOps

There’s a tendency to think that Application Performance Monitoring (APM) is the same as observability. However, APM is more focused on tracking specific metrics and logs, which is great for simpler systems. On the other hand, observability is designed for the intricate nature of today’s applications that use microservices. It gives you a detailed view of your system’s health and performance, helping you get to the bottom of problems for a more effective fix.

AIOps, short for Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations, is an approach in the field of IT operations that utilizes artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics to automate and enhance IT operations processes. The primary goal of AIOps is to help IT teams manage the increasing complexity and scale of their operations environments, especially as businesses grow and adopt more advanced technologies.

When it comes to observability, some people believe that log files are all you need. While logs are important, they’re just one piece of the puzzle. For the best results, you should be analyzing metrics, traces, and logs in real-time. This way, you can address issues before they impact your users. Observability goes beyond logs, offering insights into how your system is running and how users are interacting with it, which is key for keeping things running smoothly.

AIOps involves a number of areas including :

  • Data Analysis: AIOps platforms can process vast amounts of operational data from various IT sources, including performance monitoring tools, logs, and helpdesk systems. By analyzing this data, AIOps can detect patterns, anomalies, and potential issues.
  • Automation: A key aspect of AIOps is automating routine processes. This can range from simple tasks, like resetting a server, to more complex processes, like orchestrating a response to a network outage.
  • Machine Learning and AI: AIOps uses machine learning algorithms to learn from data over time. This enables the system to predict and prevent potential issues before they impact the business, and also to provide actionable insights for IT decision-making.
  • Enhancing IT Operations: AIOps helps IT teams become more proactive rather than reactive. It does this by offering insights that can drive better decision-making and by automating responses to common issues, freeing up IT staff to focus on more strategic tasks.
  • Incident Management and Response: In the event of IT issues or outages, AIOps can assist in rapid diagnosis and response, often identifying the root cause of a problem more quickly than a human could.
  • Capacity Optimization: AIOps tools can analyze usage patterns and trends to optimize the allocation of IT resources, such as server and storage capacity, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and effectively.

Another myth is that observability tools are always expensive. It’s true that some can be costly, but there are many options with different pricing models to suit various budgets. For instance, per-host pricing can give you a predictable cost, so you can improve your monitoring without worrying about unexpected expenses. It’s important to look at the different pricing options available to find one that fits your budget and needs.

AIOps myths

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There’s also a misconception that observability is only for Site Reliability Engineers (SREs). This isn’t the case. Observability makes data accessible to many teams, like marketing, development, DevOps, and business analysts. This means that everyone can use this data to make better decisions. By breaking down data silos, observability encourages teamwork and helps everyone contribute to making the system more reliable and successful.

  • Difference Between APM and Observability: Application Performance Monitoring (APM) is designed for monolithic runtimes, while observability caters to complex, microservices-based applications, offering a comprehensive view of the entire system.
  • Misconception of Log Files as Observability: Relying solely on log files for problem resolution is an anti-pattern. Effective monitoring involves real-time analysis of various system components and user performance to proactively address issues.
  • Cost of Observability Tools: Observability tools can be expensive, but there are pricing models that offer predictability and inclusivity, such as per-host pricing, as opposed to variable costs based on data volume or user count.
  • Observability is Not Just for SREs: Observability is not exclusively for Site Reliability Engineers (SREs). It democratizes data access across different teams, including marketing, development, DevOps, and business users, enabling them to make informed decisions.
  • Avoiding Favoritism in Application Monitoring: Traditional monitoring tools often force organizations to prioritize certain applications due to resource constraints. Observability allows for comprehensive monitoring, ensuring that all applications receive attention.
  • The Pitfalls of DIY Monitoring: Building custom monitoring solutions can slow down development and lead to lower quality applications. Automated observability solutions are recommended to maintain development speed and application performance.

In the past, monitoring tools might have focused more on certain applications because of limited resources. This could lead to an uneven emphasis. Observability changes this by allowing for equal monitoring of all applications. This ensures that no application is neglected and that performance issues are dealt with across the entire system. This balanced approach is essential for providing a good user experience.

Finally, the idea of creating a custom DIY monitoring system might seem appealing, but it comes with its own set of problems. Building your own system can take away resources from your main development work, which might lower the quality of your applications. Instead, it’s better to use automated observability solutions. They help keep your development on track and ensure your applications are performing well, all while saving you the hassle of managing a monitoring system yourself.

By understanding these aspects of observability and monitoring, you can avoid common mistakes and adopt practices that improve your system’s performance and reliability. Good observability means having a full view of your system, solving problems before they happen, and working together across different teams. With the right tools and approaches, you can make sure your applications are running perfectly and providing a great experience for your users.

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80+ ChatGPT-4 Vision features and real world applications explored

80 ChatGPT-4 Vision features and uses explored

If you haven’t yet had a chance to use the ChatGPT-4 Vision AI image analysis technology recently rolled out to ChatGPT Plus and Enterprise users by OpenAI. Would like to know more about how you can use its features in real world applications. This overview guide provides plenty of examples of how ChatGPT Vision can be used to analyze images to help you improve your workflows, productivity and save time on those mundane tasks or help out if you don’t quite understand a graph, diagram or report and would like further explanation.

OpenAI’s  new  image analysis technology ChatGPT-4 Vision is an extension of the ChatGPT chat bot which now includes the ability for users to upload images which are then analyzed by ChatGPT. This means that in addition to processing text, the AI model can also analyze and interpret documents, photographs, sketches, maths questions, images and more. The system is designed to handle a variety of tasks that involve both text and visual information, such as describing images, answering questions about them, or even generating text based on visual cues.

Imagine ChatGPT as a really smart text-based chatbot that you can have a conversation with. Normally, you type something, and it replies back with text. But now, with the “image input feature,” you can also show it pictures. So now, it’s not just a text-based chatbot; it’s a chatbot that can understand both text and images.  This is fantastic because sometimes words alone can’t fully explain what you’re trying to say. For example, let’s say you’re asking about a weird bug you found in your room. You could try to describe it with words, but showing a picture would make things way easier.

ChatGPT-4 Vision can now look at the image and then give you a more accurate answer about what kind of bug it is and whether it’s harmful. This way, the image adds “context or clarification” to your text question. The opposite is also true; you could ask the chatbot to explain an image you don’t understand, and it could use words to do that.

80+ Ways ChatGPT Vision can be used to analyze images

The role of artificial intelligence (AI) in understanding and interpreting visual data is becoming increasingly crucial. This new technology leverages the power of AI to generate responses based on images, rather than just text prompts, paving the way for a host of applications in the real world. For a comprehensive list of 82 real world examples ChatGPT-4 Vision with links to the original source  jump over to the Greg Kamradt website to register and receive an Excel spreadsheet via email.

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ChatGPT-4 Vision features and abilities

Describe

ChatGPT-4 Vision can analyze an image and generate a descriptive text that summarizes its content. For example, it can look at a photograph and tell you that it shows a “sunset over a mountain range with a river in the foreground.” This capability can be helpful in content management systems for auto-tagging, as well as for improving accessibility for visually impaired users through descriptive alt-text.

Interpret

Beyond mere description, ChatGPT-4 Vision can also interpret images to infer context or meaning. For instance, if you feed it a political cartoon, it could not only describe the elements in the image but also explain the intended message or sentiment. This application could be valuable in educational settings for analyzing visual materials or in media monitoring services to understand the visual elements of public discourse.

Recommend

Based on visual input, the model could make recommendations. For example, if you show it pictures of different outfits, it could recommend which one suits a particular occasion. In a retail setting, ChatGPT-4 Vision could analyze a photo of a room and suggest furniture or decor that would complement the existing setup.

Convert

ChatGPT-4 Vision could assist in converting visual data into another format. For example, it can take a photo of a handwritten note and transcribe it into digital text. This functionality can be particularly useful in OCR (Optical Character Recognition) applications or in digitizing archival materials.

Extract

The model can identify and isolate specific information from an image. For instance, it could extract and list the names of books seen on a bookshelf in a photo. This could be applied in inventory management, where a quick snapshot can provide essential data without manual entry.

Evaluate

ChatGPT-4 Vision can assess qualities or conditions in an image. For example, it might evaluate the quality of a manufacturing item for defects based on a photograph. This could be useful in quality control processes where visual inspection is necessary but can be time-consuming or prone to human error.

Assist

In a collaborative setting, the model could assist users by augmenting their tasks with visual information. For instance, in telemedicine, ChatGPT-4 Vision could help doctors by providing an initial analysis of X-ray images, highlighting areas that need special attention.

ChatGPT-4 Vision takes the capabilities of a text-based chatbot to the next level by adding the ability to understand and interpret images. This multi-modal approach not only enriches the interaction but also opens up a myriad of practical applications, ranging from education and healthcare to retail and quality control. By combining visual and textual understanding, it offers a more comprehensive and versatile tool for solving problems and answering questions.

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All Ubuntu 23.10 new features explored

All Ubuntu 23 10 new features explored

The latest iteration of the Ubuntu operating system, Ubuntu 23.10, also known as “Mantic Minotaur,” was released on October 12, 2023. This version comes with a host of new features and improvements, making it a significant upgrade from its predecessor, Ubuntu 22.04 LTS. The system requirements remain the same as the previous version, ensuring a smooth transition for existing users.

One of the most notable changes in Ubuntu 23.10 is the introduction of the minimal install as the default setting. This change is a significant shift from previous versions, where a full suite of applications was installed by default. Now, users have the option to expand their installation with apps like LibreOffice, Thunderbird, Shotwell photo manager, gnome calendar, and more, based on their specific needs.

Ubuntu 23.10 also introduces a new App Center, a Flutter-based replacement for Ubuntu Software. This new feature provides a responsive front end to Canonical’s Snap Store, allowing users to install traditional Deb software available in the Ubuntu archives. This change is expected to enhance the user experience by making software installation more straightforward and intuitive.

Another significant addition is the firmware updater tool, which simplifies the process of updating device firmware. This tool is a welcome addition for users who want to keep their devices up-to-date with the latest firmware versions.

The new Dynamic workspace indicator is another feature that enhances the user experience. This feature replaces the old ‘Activities’ label in the top bar and animates as you move between workspaces, providing a more intuitive and visually appealing way to navigate your workspace.

Ubuntu 23.10 new features

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The Quick Settings menu now includes a feature for keyboard backlight control, providing users with more control over their device settings. This feature is particularly useful for users who frequently use their devices in low-light conditions.

Nautilus, the default file manager in Ubuntu, has also received significant improvements in Ubuntu 23.10. These improvements include a speed boost, faster thumbnail generation, and quicker search results, making file management more efficient and user-friendly.

The settings app now includes a compact system details dialogue, providing users with a quick and easy way to access system information. The settings app also includes a new privacy panel, an overhauled keyboard layout viewer, and the ability to edit and manage saved Wi-Fi network connection info when Wireless connectivity is off.

Mantic Minotaur

Ubuntu 23.10 also introduces support for quarter tiling of app windows, allowing users to nestle app windows into quadrants. This feature enhances multitasking and makes it easier to manage multiple open windows. Firefox, the default web browser in Ubuntu, now runs in a native Wayland mode by default. This change improves touchscreen manipulation, making browsing more user-friendly for touchscreen device users.

Ubuntu 23.10 includes Linux kernel version 6.5 and MESA 23.2, which provide improved gaming and graphics performance. These updates are expected to enhance the user experience for gamers and users who frequently use graphics-intensive applications. SirsUbuntu 23.10 also introduces experimental features like Ubuntu on ZFS support and TPM backed disk encryption. While these features are still in the experimental stage, they represent significant advancements in Ubuntu’s capabilities.

Ubuntu 23.10 is a significant upgrade from its predecessor, introducing a host of new features and improvements that enhance the user experience. Whether you’re a long-time Ubuntu user or new to the platform, Ubuntu 23.10 offers something for everyone.

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Saxenda for Weight Loss – Safety, Efficacy, and Cost Explored

Saxenda’s efficacy, safety, and cost for weight loss are examined. We also discuss alternative, less expensive, and safer choices that may help you similarly lose weight without breaking the budget.

Liraglutide is a weight loss medicine with the generic name Saxenda. Adults with a BMI of 27 or above and weight-related health concerns receive this injection subcutaneously.

Saxenda, often known as the “skinny pen” or the “miracle weight loss jab,” has gotten a lot of press.

Saxenda’s efficacy, safety, and cost for weight loss are examined. We also discuss alternative, less expensive, and safer choices that may help you similarly lose weight without breaking the budget.

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What is Saxenda

Saxenda is an injectable form of liraglutide used for long-term weight control. Liraglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, is the active component in this product developed by Novo Nordisk.

Saxenda is administered subcutaneously once a day using a prefilled pen. Liraglutide reduces hunger and calorie intake by signals to the brain that the stomach is full. Additionally, it helps you feel fuller for longer after eating.

When added to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Saxenda in 2014 for the chronic management of obesity in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher or in adults with a BMI of 27 or increased and at least one weight-related comorbid condition.

Liraglutide is effective because it simulates the actions of the hormone GLP-1, which is secreted by the intestines after a meal and regulates hunger and food intake. Saxenda’s modified form of liraglutide is designed for subcutaneous administration once daily.

Saxenda, when used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise, resulted in an 8% reduction in body weight over 56 weeks in clinical studies. Saxenda works best with lifestyle changes like eating less and exercising more to promote long-term weight loss.

How To Use Saxenda

Below is a comprehensive guide to use Saxenda:

Saxenda is a prescription injectable medication used for long-term weight management in combination with a calorie-restricted diet and frequent exercise. Liraglutide, the active component in Saxenda, lowers hunger and enhances fullness.

To determine if you are a suitable candidate for Saxenda, your doctor will review your medical history and the medications you are now taking. Saxenda is approved for adults with a BMI of 30 or more or those with a BMI of 27 who have weight-related health concerns.

In a Saxenda prefilled 3ml pen, the usual dosage of liraglutide is 18mg. Each injection necessitates the attachment of a new needle to the enclosure. Saxenda injections can be administered subcutaneously in the stomach, thigh, or upper arm. Do not inject any place on your body if your skin is sensitive, fractured, or has scars or stretch marks.

The first dose of Saxenda is 0.6mg, gradually increasing over 5-7 weeks to the recommended maintenance level of 3mg. Do not increase the dosage more than once a week. Increases in dosage should be postponed for three days.

After the medicine has been appropriately prepared, the injection part should be cleansed with an alcohol swab and pinched up by rolling the pen between your palms. Place the needle at a 90-degree angle and push the dose button until you hear a click to inject the entire quantity. After injecting, gently push the hand out for at least 6 seconds before withdrawing it.

After the first use, a Saxenda pen can be stored at room temperature for up to 30 days. The enclosure should not be frozen or heated over 30° Celsius. Throw away the cell after a month, even if part of the medicine is still inside.

Please see your healthcare practitioner if you have any questions or concerns about your weight loss progress, side effects, or the appropriateness of your current dosage. Saxenda works best when accompanied by a low-calorie diet and frequent exercise.

Finally, Saxenda is a prescription weight-loss medication that reduces appetite, lowers calorie absorption, and increases satiety. The specified dose and administration regimen must be followed to take Saxenda safely and effectively for considerable weight loss.

Side Effects of Saxenda

Check out below the side effects of Saxenda:

Nausea and vomiting are common Saxenda side effects, especially at higher doses and after starting therapy. Vomiting is a less common but probable adverse effect. This usually improves when your body becomes accustomed to it.

Saxenda has been associated with diarrhea, including watery, frequent diarrhea. Drinking enough water can help to alleviate the discomfort of diarrhea.

Some Saxenda patients suffer upper stomach discomfort, ranging from dull aches to cramping to sharp pains. In most cases, this improves over time.

Saxenda can induce both diarrhea and constipation, so it’s critical to understand which effect you’re more likely to experience. Constipation can be alleviated by increasing fiber and water consumption.

Headaches were often reported throughout the early phases of Saxenda medication. They usually improve as your body adjusts to the medicine.

Lightheadedness/Fainting: Because Saxenda lowers blood sugar levels, you may experience dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. Checking your blood sugar levels regularly may help you avoid dangerously low levels.

Fatigue: Some users of Saxenda have reported increased sleepiness and lethargy. This improves over time in most situations, but watching for signs of low blood sugar is always important.

Because Saxenda is an injectable medication, some individuals suffer pain, irritation, redness, and swelling at the injection site. To reduce the possibility of adverse reactions, injection sites should be cycled.

Top 3 Saxenda Alternatives

Explore below the list and explanatary Top 3 Saxenda Alternatives

PhenQ

Hundreds of thousands worldwide have successfully lost weight with PhenQ, a dietary supplement that does not require a doctor’s prescription. It is considered a safer and less expensive alternative to popular weight-loss drugs such as Saxenda, Ozempic, and Wegovy.

For example, weight loss achieved with Saxenda is often lost and subsequently regained if the patient discontinues use. PhenQ and comparable products prevent this, and the weight loss is long-lasting (even after stopping usage).

It’s a potent natural substance that accomplishes everything from decreasing hunger to preventing the formation of new fat cells to aiding in weight loss. An extra component aids in the prevention of fatigue.

PhenQ has been on the market for about a decade, has earned considerable critical acclaim, and routinely ranks at the top of consumer slimming pill rankings.

The creators are so confident in their diet pill that they provide a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Capsiplex

Capsiplex is a weight-loss pill that raises metabolic rate and decreases fat accumulation.

Studies found Capsicum enhances energy expenditure and fat oxidation, making it useful for both men and women to include in their diets.

Capsicum increases the production of brown adipose tissue, which reduces weight by turning extra calories into heat.

Capsiplex has been proven to be a safe and efficient weight loss supplement that can replace the requirement for injectable medicines when used as directed.

Capsicum ingredient in Capsiplex helps you feel full on fewer calories, contributing to considerable weight loss when paired with a healthy diet.

Zotrim

Zotrim is a weight loss medication that contains natural herbal extracts of Yerba Mate, Guarana, and Damiana.

The stimulants in Zotrim help the body burn more calories by raising energy and improving fat burning.

Zotrim can help people consume less calories by making them feel fuller for longer.

When used as directed, the natural supplement Zotrim may be a better alternative to prescription weight reduction medicines.

Zotrim is considered to aid weight loss in two ways: by increasing energy expenditure (through increased metabolic rate) and decreasing energy intake (by appetite suppression). When combined with a balanced diet and moderate exercise, the weight loss advantages of Zotrim can be enhanced.

Saxenda Dosage

Check here the dosage guidelines for Saxenda:

Titrating (gradually increasing) the dosage of Saxenda over 5-7 weeks might assist you in achieving the ideal maintenance dosage for weight loss.

The suggested beginning dosage is 0.6 mg of subcutaneous injections once daily for the first week.

The dosage should be raised by 0.6 mg per week, up to a maximum of 3.0 mg once a day.

Dosage increases should not occur more than once each week. Patients should wait at least three days before receiving a more significant dose.

The maximum safe daily dose is 3.0 mg. Amounts more than 3.0 mg show no further therapeutic benefit.

The weight loss drug can be used at any time of day, with or without meals. Patients should be told to inject simultaneously every day for the most significant outcomes.

All weight loss medications work best when used in conjunction with a well-balanced, low-calorie diet and frequent exercise.

Saxenda’s full advantages will not be apparent for at least three months after commencing medication. Most people’s weight loss success rates tend to level off after four to six months.

Users of Saxenda (liraglutide) should know where to find the drug, how long it may be stored at room temperature, and what to do if they fail to take a dose.

Patients should see their doctor before changing their Saxenda dosage or discontinuing the medication if they have met their weight-loss goals.

Finally, the beginning dose of Saxenda is 0.6 mg, with weekly increases of 0.6 mg up to the maintenance dose of 3.0 mg. Careful titration is required to lose the most weight while using Saxenda, as well as a nutritious diet and frequent exercise.

How much Weight Can You Lose in a Month with Saxenda?

Over a year, patients who used Saxenda to lose weight lost 8-10% of their starting body mass.

  • Several patients lost 15% or more of their starting body weight during the clinical tests.
  • Most patients lost between 4 and 11 pounds after one month of using Saxenda as advised.
  • The first three to six months show the most significant weight loss, with succeeding months leading to a progressive decline in weight loss. However, program participants can expect to lose weight.
  • Saxenda has the best outcomes when paired with a calorie-restricted diet of 500-750 fewer calories per day than is necessary to maintain weight.
  • Increasing one’s level of physical activity, engaging in regular exercise, and enrolling in a weight loss support program can all help Saxenda work better and help one attain a healthy BMI.
  • People who are already overweight and lower their calorie consumption are likelier to lose the most weight in the first month.

Final Thought

A doctor’s supervision and a prescription are necessary to take Saxenda for weight loss. Some people consider this weight loss medication’s high cost and hazardous side effects too risky, so they seek natural alternatives.

PhenQ, Capsiplex, and Zotrim are healthy diet pills that may be acquired without a doctor’s prescription and for far less money than Saxenda and comparable injectable prescription drugs.