If you’re having trouble losing weight, you’re not alone. Scientists are constantly looking for better ways to help people manage their weight. Recently, they discovered that a hormone in our bodies called GLP-1 plays a big role in hunger and how our bodies process food. New medications that act like this hormone could offer a new way to lose weight.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar and appetite. Produced in the intestines, it gets released after you eat and has several important effects on your body.
GLP-1 has become a focus for treatments for type 2 diabetes and obesity. This is where medications like semaglutide come into play. Semaglutide mimics GLP-1 but lasts longer and works more effectively. It tricks your body into thinking you’ve eaten, boosting insulin production, reducing sugar levels, and decreasing hunger.
Originally created for type 2 diabetes, semaglutide also helps with weight loss. Now, it’s being considered as a weight loss treatment.
GLP-1 analogs, like semaglutide, have shown promise in aiding weight loss. These medications work by:
Clinical trials and real-world evidence suggest that these medications can help many people lose more weight than diet and exercise alone. But their effectiveness can vary depending on factors like:
It’s important to know these medications are not a magic fix. They work best when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Over time, their effects can plateau, meaning weight loss might slow down or stop.
Research is still evolving, and we don’t know everything about the long-term effects of GLP-1 medications. Here’s what we do know:
Common side effects include:
More severe, but less common issues are:
Some people might not adapt to the medication at all. Research is ongoing about the possibility of long-term side effects, including cancer.
GLP-1 receptor agonists might be prescribed to people who meet certain criteria, but deciding to use them should be based on individual health, weight loss goals, and potential risks. Some people shouldn’t take these medications, including:
Always provide your full medical history to your doctor before starting any new medication.
These medications can be quite expensive, costing hundreds or even over a thousand dollars a month without insurance. They also come in different forms, some taken daily and others weekly.
While these drugs can aid in weight loss, the effects don’t last forever. Most people’s weight plateaus after a few months, and stopping the medication often leads to weight regain. This means you might need to continue taking the medication long-term, which can be costly. Stopping suddenly can cause side effects or rapid weight gain.
Probiotics, beneficial bacteria for gut health, might also help your body produce more GLP-1. Scientists are still studying this potential link.
Bioma is a probiotic supplement that supports gut health and might indirectly influence GLP-1 levels. It creates a healthy gut environment, potentially promoting natural GLP-1 production.
Bioma contains a mix of probiotic strains and other ingredients aimed at supporting gut health.
While pharmaceutical GLP-1 agonists strongly increase GLP-1 activity, some natural ways might help boost GLP-1:
GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide show promise for weight loss but should be approached with caution. They are relatively new and lack long-term safety data. Many users experience significant side effects, and weight regain is common after discontinuation. Long-term use might be necessary to maintain weight loss, raising concerns about unknown health risks and costs.
These medications can lead to significant weight loss and help control blood sugar in type 2 diabetes, but they still require lifestyle changes. The high cost, potential for severe side effects, and limited long-term safety data must be considered.
It’s essential to talk to a healthcare provider to weigh the benefits, risks, and costs for your situation.
