What You Need to Know About GLP-1 Medications
You've probably heard about them. Maybe your doctor mentioned them, or perhaps you've seen celebrities discussing them, or friends have shared their experiences. GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, and Mounjaro have become household names practically overnight, and for good reason. These medications represent a significant advancement in how we approach weight management and metabolic health, but we know the GLP-1 landscape can also feel confusing and overwhelming to navigate.
Our team works regularly with clients considering initiating or currently using GLP-1 medications, and we provide clear, evidence-based education and nutrition guidance to help them make informed decisions about the inclusion of medication as part of their health journey. Some of what we share with our clients is included here to help you cut through the noise and better understand what GLP-1 medications actually are, how they work, and what you need to know if you're considering them as part of your particular health journey, however this information is not intended for the purpose of any particular recommendation for use. Understanding GLP-1: The Science Made Simple
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, which is a hormone your body naturally produces in your intestines when you eat. Think of it as one of your body's built-in appetite and blood sugar regulators. When you eat, GLP-1 is released and does several important things: it tells your brain you're getting full, slows down how quickly food leaves your stomach, regulates appetite, and helps your pancreas release the right amount of insulin to manage your blood sugar.
The medications we're talking about are GLP-1 receptor agonists, which means they mimic this natural hormone but last much longer in your system than the GLP-1 your body makes on its own. While your natural GLP-1 is broken down within minutes, these medications can work for days or even a week, depending on which one you're taking.
Originally, these medications were developed to help people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels. But researchers noticed something interesting: people taking these medications were also losing weight, often significant amounts. This led to further research and the approval of some of these medications specifically for weight management in people without diabetes.
The Different Players in the GLP-1 Family
You might be wondering about the different names you've heard. Let us help clarify the landscape:
Semaglutide is the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. While they share the same active ingredient, the difference between these two medications lies in their FDA-approved usage and dosage. Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes management, while Wegovy is approved for weight loss and is administered in higher doses than Ozempic to achieve optimal weight loss. Rybelsus is an oral form of Semaglutide.
Liraglutide is found in Victoza (for diabetes) and Saxenda (for weight management). This medication requires daily injections rather than weekly ones.
Tirzepatide is the newest player, found in Mounjaro (for diabetes) and Zepbound (for weight management). This medication actually targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, which may make it even more effective for some people.
The key thing to understand is that while these medications share similar mechanisms, they're not identical, and what works best can vary significantly from person to person.
How These Medications Support Weight Management
The weight loss effects of GLP-1 medications happen through several interconnected mechanisms. First and most noticeably, they significantly reduce appetite. Many people describe feeling satisfied with much smaller portions and having fewer food cravings throughout the day. This isn't “willpower;” it's a biological change in how your brain receives and processes hunger signals.
These medications also slow gastric emptying, which means food stays in your stomach longer, helping you feel full for extended periods after eating. Some people find they can eat a few bites of a meal and feel completely satisfied, whereas before taking a GLP-1 medication, they might have needed to eat much more to achieve that same feeling of fullness.
Additionally, GLP-1 medications can reduce what researchers call "food noise," the constant thoughts about food that many people experience. Clients often report they're surprised by how much mental space opens up when they're not constantly thinking about their next meal or snack.
From a metabolic standpoint, these medications can improve insulin sensitivity and help stabilize blood sugar levels, even in people without diabetes. This can lead to more stable energy levels throughout the day and reduced cravings for high-carbohydrate foods.
Potential Side Effects and Considerations
Like all medications, GLP-1 agonists can cause side effects, and it's important to understand what you might experience. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal in nature: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. These tend to be most pronounced when starting the medication or increasing the dose, and they often improve over time as your body adjusts.
The nausea can be particularly challenging for some people, especially in the first few weeks. We work with clients to develop strategies for managing this, including eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding foods that are high in fat or very spicy, and staying well-hydrated.
Some people experience what's called "Ozempic face" or rapid facial aging, which may be related to rapid weight loss rather than the medication itself. Other potential side effects can include fatigue, headaches, and changes in taste.
More serious but rare side effects can include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and thyroid issues. This is why it's crucial to work with a healthcare provider who can monitor you appropriately and help you weigh the benefits against the risks for your individual situation.
The Importance of Nutrition While Using GLP-1 Medications
Here's something that doesn't get talked about enough: these medications can significantly reduce your appetite, sometimes to the point where you're not eating enough to meet your basic nutritional needs or to maintain lean mass. This is where working with a registered dietitian is invaluable.
When you're eating much smaller portions, every bite needs to count from a nutritional perspective. We help clients focus on nutrient-dense foods that provide the protein, vitamins, and minerals their bodies need, even when their overall intake is reduced. Protein becomes especially important because rapid weight loss can lead to muscle loss if you're not consuming adequate amounts.
Many people find that their food preferences change while taking these medications. Foods that were once appealing might become unappealing, and some people develop aversions to certain textures or flavors. We work together to identify enjoyable foods that are both appetizing and nutrient-dense.
Hydration also becomes crucial, as some people find they're drinking less when their appetite is suppressed. Dehydration can worsen side effects like nausea and constipation, so we develop strategies to ensure adequate fluid intake throughout the day.
Setting Realistic Expectations
While the results from GLP-1 medications can be impressive, it's important to have realistic expectations. Not everyone will experience the average weight loss seen in clinical trials. Some people are "super responders" and lose more weight than average, while others may lose less or not respond to the medication at all.
The medication typically takes several weeks to months to reach its full effect, and weight loss usually happens gradually over time rather than all at once. Most people start to notice changes in appetite within the first few weeks, but significant weight loss often takes several months to become apparent.
It's also important to understand that these medications work best as part of a comprehensive approach that includes appropriate nutrition and physical activity. They're not magic bullets that work without any lifestyle changes, but rather tools that can make it easier to implement and maintain healthy habits.
The Long-Term Perspective
One of the most important things to understand about GLP-1 medications is that they're typically intended for long-term use. Most people regain weight when they stop taking the medication, which means it is often important to think of GLP-1 use as a long-term commitment rather than a short-term solution.
This reality makes it even more important to use the time while you're taking the medication to develop sustainable eating and exercise habits, gain insight into any emotional triggers to eat when not hungry, t and to address dysfunctional behaviors around food in order to maximize the impact of the medication and also potentially be able to titrate the dose over time. It can be helpful to think of the medication as a platform that enables an opportunity to learn new patterns and behaviors that will serve you well, whether you continue taking it indefinitely or eventually discontinue it.
Some people find that after being on the medication for an extended period, they've developed new habits and a different relationship with food that helps them maintain their progress even if they reduce or stop the medication. Others may need to continue taking it long-term to maintain their results.
Is a GLP-1 Medication Right for You?
This is a decision that should be made with your healthcare provider based on your individual medical history, current health status, goals, and life circumstances., These medications may be approved for people with a BMI of 30 or higher, or 27 or higher with weight-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea.
But beyond the clinical criteria, there are other factors to consider. Are you ready to commit to potential long-term medication use? Can you manage the potential side effects? Do you have realistic expectations about the timeline and amount of weight loss? Are you prepared to work on developing healthy habits alongside taking the medication?
Cost and insurance coverage are also important considerations, as these medications can be expensive without insurance coverage. Some people find that their insurance covers the medication when prescribed for diabetes but not for weight management, even though it's the same drug.
Working with Healthcare Professionals
If you're considering a GLP-1 medication, it's important to work with healthcare providers who understand these medications and can monitor you appropriately. This typically includes regular check-ins to assess how you're responding to the medication, monitor for side effects, and adjust the dose as needed.
Many people benefit from working with a team that includes their primary care doctor or an obesity medicine specialist, along with a registered dietitian who can help optimize their nutrition while taking the medication. This collaborative approach helps ensure you're getting the maximum benefit while minimizing potential risks.
The Bottom Line
GLP-1 medications represent an exciting advancement in our ability to help people achieve and maintain significant weight loss and improve their metabolic health. For many people, they can be truly life-changing tools that make it possible to break free from cycles of unsuccessful dieting and develop a healthier relationship with food.
However, they're not appropriate for everyone, and they work best when used as part of a comprehensive approach that includes attention to nutrition, physical activity, behavioral changes, and attention to emotional eating patterns. The decision to start one of these medications should be made thoughtfully, with realistic expectations and a commitment to the lifestyle changes that will support your long-term success.
If you're considering a GLP-1 medication, we encourage you to have an open conversation with your healthcare provider about whether it might be right for you. And remember, whether you decide to use medication or not, developing sustainable, healthy habits around food and movement is the foundation of long-term wellbeing. These medications can be powerful tools, but they work best when combined with the knowledge and skills to nourish your body well for life.
Ready to transform your relationship with food? Whether you're seeking support for eating concerns, looking to establish healthier family food dynamics, or simply want to feel more confident in your food choices, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us to schedule your complimentary discovery call.
