The glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) hormone plays a critical role in maintaining a healthy weight, primarily through appetite regulation.
A peak in GLP-1 secretion increases feelings of satiety, suppressing hunger pangs. The hormone also combats overeating by slowing down gastric emptying.
Numerous findings have shown that increased GLP-1 levels may, indeed, foster healthy weight.
According to a recent study, GLP-1 receptor agonists (RAs) can accelerate weight loss for obese and overweight people. The hormone is effective for obese individuals with or without type 2 diabetes.
Thanks to GLP-1’s incredible weight loss benefits, the hormone is now available in several medications. But do these drugs work?
Read below as we unpack what a GLP-1 weight loss journey entails.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 is a natural gut hormone secreted primarily by the enteroendocrine L-cell in the ileum, which helps regulate healthy weight. GLP-1’s secretion peaks with the presence of nutrients, which explains the hormone’s role in controlling appetite and blood sugar levels.
GLP-1 drugs stimulate insulin production. This stabilizes blood sugar levels, making the medications effective for people with diabetes.
Since weight management can be extremely challenging for diabetics, taking GLP-1 drugs may also stimulate healthy weight loss.
GLP 1 weight loss medications induce the sensations of fullness for longer, reducing meal frequency. The drugs also minimize the quantity of food consumed in a single meal by inducing feelings of satiety much sooner.
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Your GLP-1 weight loss journey starts by consulting a licensed doctor, where you discuss your medical history and share your weight loss goals.
The doctor will perform certain diagnostic tests as part of prequalifying you for GLP-1 usage. These include blood sugar, kidney health, and liver function examinations.
If you’ve tried other weight loss plans before, feel free to highlight the strategies you used and the challenges you countered.
Utilize the opportunity to ask pertinent questions, including the benefits of GLP-1 weight loss and the potential adverse effects of these medications.
To administer GLP-1 for weight loss, you must fulfill the minimum threshold for obesity and overweight. Your doctor will help you determine if you’re the perfect candidate.
Typically, GLP-1-aided weight loss plans are ideal for obese individuals with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30.
The medications are also prescribed for overweight people with a BMI ≥ 27.
However, overweight but not necessarily obese individuals must have been diagnosed with at least one weight-related medical condition, notably type 2 diabetes or hypertension.
Numerous GLP-1 medications exist. A qualified medical doctor will recommend the best drug for your needs, based on your BMI and existing weight-loss conditions.
Ensure the prescribed medication is fully FDA-approved. Examples include Zepbound (tirzepatide), Saxenda (liraglutide), and Wegovy (semaglutide).
It’s also important to beware of counterfeits.
Besides posing serious health issues, counterfeit GLP-1 drugs can prolong your weight loss journey unduly. That underscores the significance of working with a medical professional.
After pointing you to the right drug, the doctor will issue a prescription depending on your needs.
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This is undoubtedly the most critical part of using GLP-1 for weight loss. Strictly follow professional recommendations, taking caution not to overdose on these drugs.
Generally, you’ll require a single weekly dose of GLP-1.
You can self-administer the drug by injecting a measured portion underneath your skin. Ideal injection sites include the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen.
To minimize adverse effects, start small (around 0.25 mg). Let your body acclimatize to the drug before upping your serving portions.
As a precaution, consult your doctor before increasing your GLP-1 doses significantly. The provider may incrementally adjust your serving portions every four weeks until you hit an optimal dose that offers substantial weight loss benefits with minimal adverse events.
Although GLP-1 supplements are remarkably effective on their own, you can maximize their effects by implementing certain lifestyle adjustments.
Many providers will recommend the best lifestyle habits, which often emphasize mindful dieting and physical activity.
As a thumb rule, ramp up your intake of high-quality protein to preserve lean muscle. Aim for 25% lean protein, 25% complex carbohydrates, and 50% non-starchy veggies with each diet.
Besides, drink at least 64 ounces of water daily. Water aids digestion and eases certain GLP-1 side effects, including constipation and frequent thirst sensations.
Moreover, exercise for up to 150 minutes weekly. Combine aerobics with strength training to stay in shape and prevent muscle loss.
GLP-1 medications are remarkably effective.
You can expect early weight loss milestones within 30 days, often much sooner if you’ve also implemented the aforementioned interventions.
However, obesity (and related conditions like type 2 diabetes) require ongoing maintenance.
Don’t focus only on treating the disease. Rather, implement long-term weight loss tips like controlling food portions, eating a balanced diet, and staying hydrated.
Other strategies include effective stress management, getting adequate sleep, and incorporating physical activity.
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GLP-1 medications have well-documented weight loss benefits. If properly administered, these drugs can yield incredible results within weeks.
Most GLP-1s pose no severe long-term medical complications, either. Besides, the drugs don’t require subscribing to strict weight loss programs.
However, GLP-1 drugs require a prescription from a licensed medical practitioner. And while these medications pose no life-threatening risks, they may cause short-term adverse effects like nausea and Ozempic face.
Strictly follow your prescription to minimize any unpleasant reactions.
As a precaution, seek emergency medical attention if side effects intensify beyond manageable levels.
