get started

GLP-1 Agonists-2

Last week, I attended a clinical update on Ozempic, Wegovy, and other GLP-1 agonist drugs, and I wanted to share some valuable insights with you.

What You Need to Know About GLP-1 Agonists

Chances are you or someone you know has heard about or used a GLP-1 agonist. In fact, a recent poll found that as many as 1 in 8 people have taken one of these medications. GLP-1 drugs are commonly prescribed for people with diabetes to help manage weight, blood sugar, and overall heart health. These medications are also becoming popular for supporting weight loss in the general public.

What Are GLP-1 Agonists?

GLP-1 stands for “Glucagon-like peptide-1,” a hormone that helps regulate insulin, hunger, and digestion. GLP-1 agonists mimic this natural hormone to support better blood sugar control and help with weight management by:

  • Encouraging the pancreas to release insulin, which lowers blood sugar levels and improves metabolism.
  • Slowing down digestion, so you feel fuller for longer.
  • Interacting with hunger hormones like leptin and ghrelin, reducing appetite through signals between the gut and brain.

These medications are also showing promise in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events in some populations, although more research is still needed.

Potential Side Effects

Like any medication, GLP-1 agonists can have side effects. Common ones include gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, as well as fatigue. More serious concerns, though rare, include pancreatic and thyroid problems.

Common GLP-1 Medications

Popular brand names include Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, as well as some cheaper off-brand compounded versions. While these off-brand options might seem more affordable and easier to get, they come with risks due to inconsistent dosing and lack of regulation. In the U.S., Ozempic is approved only for people with diabetes and requires a prescription, while Wegovy and other similar medications are approved for weight loss. These medications can be expensive, often costing over $1,000 per month.

Long-Term Use and Lifestyle Changes

As the use of GLP-1 agonists continues to rise, it’s important to note that there’s still limited long-term data. Most studies have only followed patients for up to 10 years, and many people regain the weight after stopping the drug. For those who want to maintain the benefits—whether improved A1C, heart health or weight loss—long-term use may be necessary.

But here’s the elephant in the room: lifestyle changes are a must for lasting results. Even the manufacturers emphasize the importance of a healthy diet and regular exercise. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is essential for preventing deficiencies during weight loss, and strength training helps ensure you lose fat—not muscle.

Unfortunately, many people on GLP-1 agonists aren’t given the personalized nutrition and lifestyle guidance they need for sustained success. Psychological support also plays a key role in navigating the emotional shifts that can come with the changes required for sustained weight loss.

Get the Right Support

If you’re currently taking or considering a GLP-1 agonist, make sure you’re also getting the right personalized nutrition, lifestyle, and emotional support from a trained professional, like an integrative registered dietitian nutrition specialist. The right support will help you achieve and maintain your goals!

Here are three actionable steps, one for each —nutrition, strength training, and emotional support/wellbeing—that can help you support yourself if your on a GLP-1 agonist drugs:

Incorporate more fiber-rich foods: Focus on whole grains, legumes, vegetables, and fruits to support digestion, enhance satiety, and prevent nutrient deficiencies during weight loss.

Strength train 2-3 times per week: Include resistance exercises like squats, lunges, and weightlifting to build and maintain muscle, which can prevent muscle loss while on GLP-1 medications.

Mindful stress management: Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to manage emotional shifts that may arise during lifestyle and medication changes.

Support worth When using a GLP-1 agonist medication for weight loss, personalized nutrition and lifestyle care are more important than ever. While the medication can help regulate appetite and blood sugar, it’s essential to support your body with the right fuel and habits for long-term success.

Maximizing Weight Loss with GLP-1 Agonists: The Power of Personalized Nutrition and Lifestyle Support

Working with a trained professional, such as a registered dietitian nutrition specialist, provides the tailored guidance you need to optimize your results. A personalized approach ensures you’re getting the right nutrients, managing any side effects, and creating sustainable lifestyle changes that work in harmony with your medication. This individualized support is key to achieving and maintaining your weight loss goals while promoting overall health and well-being.

Sources

  1. KFF Health Tracking Poll (April 23-May 1, 2024).
  1. Ronveaux CC, Tomé D, Raybould HE. Glucagon-like peptide 1 interacts with ghrelin and leptin to regulate glucose metabolism and food intake through vagal afferent neuron signaling. J Nutr. 2015 Apr;145(4):672-80. doi: 10.3945/jn.114.206029. Epub 2015 Feb 4. PMID: 25833771; PMCID: PMC4381768.
  1. Filippatos TD, Panagiotopoulou TV, Elisaf MS. Adverse Effects of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists. Rev Diabet Stud. 2014 Fall-Winter;11(3-4):202-30. doi: 10.1900/RDS.2014.11.202. Epub 2015 Feb 10. PMID: 26177483; PMCID: PMC5397288.
  1. Muzurović EM, Volčanšek Š, Tomšić KZ, Janež A, Mikhailidis DP, Rizzo M, Mantzoros CS. Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists and Dual Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide/Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists in the Treatment of Obesity/Metabolic Syndrome, Prediabetes/Diabetes and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease-Current Evidence. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther. 2022 Jan-Dec;27:10742484221146371. doi: 10.1177/10742484221146371. PMID: 36546652.

There is Google Sheets doc “timeline document” meant to accompany the “Why You Need a Personal Health Timeline (And How To Create One). blog”.

Virginia Darrow-Menegaz
Latest posts by Virginia Darrow-Menegaz (see all)