What is GLP-1?

Many people are discussing GLP-1, and rightfully so! You might be curious about what GLP-1 is and what it stands for. GLP-1, or glucagon-like peptide 1, is an amino acid peptide hormone produced in the gut following food consumption. It primarily functions to inhibit glucagon production and promote insulin production. Additionally, GLP-1 is associated with healthy weight management as it is believed to help regulate appetite.¹

How does GLP-1 work?

Emerging research on GLP-1's role in the body is promising, particularly for addressing obesity and diabetes. Produced by specific cells in the intestines after eating, GLP-1 is transmitted by sensory neurons in the gut and quickly metabolized by an enzyme called dipeptidyl peptidase. As an incretin hormone, it enhances insulin production, which is vital for those seeking to maintain a healthy blood glucose response. Furthermore, GLP-1 helps prevent excessive glucagon secretion, thereby aiding in blood glucose stabilization.¹

GLP-1 also plays a role in slowing gastrointestinal motility, the process through which food moves from the mouth through the intestines to eventual excretion.² By modulating this process, GLP-1 acts as an enterogastrone—a hormone released when sugars or fats enter the small intestine.³ This moderation allows for optimal nutrient absorption and contributes to appetite reduction and weight management.¹

While GLP-1 itself is not a medication but a naturally occurring hormone, there is a class of medications known as GLP-1 agonists, which may be prescribed by healthcare professionals for treating conditions like Type 2 diabetes.

What are GLP-1 agonists?

GLP-1 agonists are medications that mimic the action of natural GLP-1, which healthcare professionals may prescribe to manage high blood glucose levels or assist in weight management.⁴ Approved by the FDA in 2005, these medications are typically injectable and administered into the fatty tissue just under the skin.

Examples of GLP-1 agonists include:

• Semaglutide injection (Ozempic®)
• Semaglutide tablets (Rybelsus®)
• Dulaglutide (Trulicity®)
• Exenatide (Byetta®)
• Exenatide extended-release (Bydureon®)
• Liraglutide (Victoza®)
• Lixisenatide (Adlyxin®)

Benefits of GLP-1 agonists

GLP-1 agonists promote insulin production, enhance satiety, slow food movement along the digestive tract, and inhibit glucagon secretion during digestion.⁴ Benefits for patients prescribed GLP-1 agonists include:

• Delaying the progression of diabetes-related complications
• Reducing the risk of kidney and heart diseases
• Improving certain liver health issues
• Enhancing cardiovascular health, including maintaining normal blood pressure levels

Supplements and GLP-1

For those seeking alternative methods to increase their GLP-1 hormone naturally or explore hormone-free weight loss strategies, various options are available:

• Natural Weight Loss Supplements
  • Weight loss can be achieved without taking the GLP-1 hormone. Metabolism boosters and fat burners have been shown to potentially reduce visceral fat, while supplements like berberine and psyllium husk can help curb cravings and support your journey.
• GLP-1 Activators
  • Certain supplements are studied for their potential to naturally raise GLP-1 levels. Ingredients like berberine, though working differently from GLP-1 agonists, can increase this hormone's secretion to aid weight loss.⁵

GLP-1 Agonists Side Effects

GLP-1 agonists can cause several side effects, depending on individual responses:

• Digestive issues and nausea: Slowed digestion can lead to nausea or discomfort
• Nutritional deficiencies: Reduced food intake due to appetite suppression may lead to insufficient vitamin and mineral intake
• Low energy or fatigue: Fatigue may occur, possibly due to changes in glucose metabolism and reduced appetite
• Lean muscle loss: Rapid weight loss can lead to muscle loss if calorie intake is lower than what's burned daily
• Bone density loss: Ongoing studies suggest that diet-induced weight loss may decrease bone mineral density⁸

If you experience any adverse effects, support is available for digestive comfort, nutritional gaps, sustained energy, muscle building, and bone strengthening.

Our understanding of GLP-1 and its contribution to healthy blood glucose levels and weight management continues to grow. By supplementing with specific herbs or minerals, in addition to maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, we can support our body's optimal function.

Take care of your well-being.

BubbForest

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

This website is not for the sale, promotion, or endorsement of GLP-1 medication. This website is for educational and general wellness information purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition. It should not be considered medical advice nor intended to replace the advice of a healthcare professional. Please consult with your healthcare professional about the appropriate nutrition for you.

About Dr. Christopher Oseh

Dr. Christopher Oseh, MD, is a trained primary care physician with nearly a decade of clinical experience in managing and counseling patients toward better health through positive lifestyle changes. He has a proven track record in treating and co-managing chronic illnesses.

Sources

1. The Physiology of Glucagon-Like Peptide 1. Physiological Reviews. Read source
2. Gastrointestinal Motility. UCSan Diego Health. Read source
3. Enterogastrone. Britannica.Read source.
4. GLP-1 Agonists. Cleveland Clinic.Read source
5. GLP-1 agonists: Diabetes drugs and weight loss. Mayo Clinic. Read source
6. Food Factors Having Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Releasing Activity. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. Read source
7. Berberine induces GLP-1 secretion through activation of bitter taste receptor pathways. Biochemical Pharmacology. Read source
8. Weight Loss and Bone Mineral Density. Current Opinion in Endocrinology & Diabetes and Obesity. Read source