The emergence of GLP-1 receptor agonists has been one of the most significant breakthroughs in metabolic medicine in the last two decades. These medications mimic the effects of a naturally occurring hormone that plays a vital role in regulating appetite, metabolism, and blood sugar.
By understanding how these medications work, healthcare providers and patients can make informed decisions regarding their use for weight loss.
What are GLP-1 agonists?
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists are a relatively new class of medications designed to help people with Type 2 diabetes manage their glucose levels, and one of the main benefits is healthy fat loss. First approved by the FDA in 2005, these medications help patients lose belly fat when conventional methods fail or are out of reach.
“This new generation of weight loss medications works like a GPS system for your metabolism,” says Jessica Snyder, RD, from FuturHealth. “They help your body find its optimal path to burning fat and maintaining a healthy weight.”
While GLP-1 agonists were originally created to help diabetics, they’re now being used by a wide range of people who are tired of struggling to lose weight and keep it off.
How do GLP-1 receptor agonists work?
Ozempic and similar medications:
- Trigger the pancreas to release more insulin, which then controls the excess glucose in the blood
- Block glucagon secretion, preventing blood sugar levels from rising
- Slow digestion so the body releases less sugar from food into the bloodstream
- Tell the brain the stomach is full for a longer period of time, reducing appetite
The result is clinically-proven gradual weight loss. Many studies have shown that Ozempic and similar medications are effective at helping people lose belly fat. For example, in a 2021 double-blind clinical trial involving nearly 2,000 adults, participants lost an average of 15% of their body weight over the course of 68 weeks.
How is Ozempic prescribed?
Although a prescription isn’t necessary to obtain Semaglutide online, healthcare providers who prescribe Ozempic and similar medications do so for Type 2 diabetes and obesity.
How is a GLP-1 agonist medication administered?
Medications like Ozempic and Zepbound are typically administered as a subcutaneous injection, which is a shot given in the fatty tissue just under the skin. Subcutaneous shots are typically administered in the belly, outer thighs, back of the arm, or the upper buttocks. The shot doesn’t hurt, and most people don’t even feel it since the needle is a small gauge.
For those who do not want to inject their medication, there is a pill version of Semaglutide available.
Are there any side effects?
Just like other medications, there are potential side effects and contraindications. This is why it’s important for patients to have an open and transparent conversation with their doctor first. Many people find the side effects to be tolerable, while others don’t experience side effects at all. Everyone is different.
Lifestyle and dietary changes are required
Although GLP-1 receptor agonists are effective at helping people lose belly fat and control blood sugar, patients must also make lifestyle and dietary changes to get and maintain results. It’s not a medication that allows patients to eat whatever they want, and it’s advised to get a moderate amount of exercise.
It’s recommended that people taking Ozempic enjoy a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, lean protein, healthy fats, and whole grains while limiting sugar, sodium, red meat, and saturated fat. Eating heavy foods with saturated fat can worsen side effects, like nausea.
Foods like fish, chicken, beans, and tofu are excellent sources of lean protein. Oats, brown rice, and quinoa are healthy whole grains, and healthy fats include avocado, nuts, and olive oil.
Vegetables and fruits that are ideal to eat while taking a GLP-1 agonist include:
- Low-starch vegetables, like broccoli, carrots, and leafy greens
- Berries, apples, and pears
If these foods aren’t already part of someone’s diet, they should make changes gradually to minimize the potential for side effects.
It’s also important to eat smaller portions while taking these medications because of the way they slow digestion. Overeating while taking these medications can cause worsening side effects.
Metabolic medicine is always evolving
Medications like Ozempic and Zepbound have changed the way patients and their doctors approach the treatment of obesity and Type 2 diabetes. As medicine advances, the success of GLP-1 receptor agonists will continue to open new pathways for research in metabolic medicine, promising even more effective treatments in the future.
