03/11/2026
🧬Wellness Wednesday 🧬
GLP-1 medications were originally developed for diabetes…
but researchers discovered something unexpected during clinical trials.
Patients weren’t just improving their blood sugar……….They were losing weight. That discovery changed the entire field of metabolic medicine. For decades obesity was treated as a behavioral problem. The science now suggests it is much more accurately described as a hormonal and metabolic signaling disorder involving the gut, brain, pancreas, and liver.
Scientists were studying a hormone naturally produced in the gut called Incretin aka GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) that is released when we eat. (The gut is SO important to many aspects of our health! )
This hormone helps regulate blood sugar by signaling the pancreas to release insulin and by slowing the release of glucose from the liver.
It turns out GLP-1 doesn’t just affect blood sugar — it also communicates with the brain’s appetite centers, helping regulate hunger and satiety.
What GLP-1 medications do:
• reduce appetite by signaling fullness in the brain
• slow gastric emptying so food stays in the stomach longer
• improve blood sugar regulation
• reduce spikes and crashes that drive cravings
The result for many people is reduced calorie intake without constant hunger.
Scientists are now developing medications that target multiple metabolic hormones, which is why you may hear them described as different “generations.”
Generation 1 – GLP-1 agonists
These mimic the GLP-1 hormone alone and primarily regulate appetite and blood sugar. (12-15% body weight reduction)
Generation 2 – Dual agonists (Approx. 20% body weight reduction)
These activate two hormones involved in metabolism. For example, tirzepatide activates both GLP-1 and GIP, improving insulin signaling and metabolic regulation.
Generation 3 – Triple agonists (in development) (approx. 25% body weight reduction)
These target GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors, which may influence appetite, metabolism, and energy expenditure simultaneously.
The goal of these newer medications is to better address the hormonal drivers of metabolic disease, not just appetite. These medications initially intended for diabetes is now used for weight loss in non-diabetic patients.
With weight loss the risk is losing muscle mass and nutrients in addition to fat.
They work best when paired with:
• adequate protein
• resistance training
• sleep optimization
• insulin sensitivity strategies
Otherwise, muscle loss and weight regain can occur when stopped.
General diet recommendations for individuals prescribed GLP1s include:
1g of protein per 1 lb of body weight and 25-30g of fiber daily
Commonly recommended supplements:
• Electrolytes – prevent fatigue and headaches
• Magnesium – supports bowel function and sleep
• Omega-3 fatty acids – support heart health
• Protein supplementation if dietary intake is low
You should always visit with your physician before starting medications, supplements or diets to ensure that your overall health is being considered. This is not a recommendation but intended to help you have informed conversations with your physician.
Thank you to everyone who submitted such thoughtful questions about GLP-1 medications and metabolic health!!!
I love seeing people curious and engaged about their health. There were so many great questions. I promise I will get around. to addressing them all!
