You must have been on Mars to have missed the immense attention GLP-1 has gained recently due to its role in weight loss and diabetes treatment. This is largely due to the rise and accessibility of GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy.
If like me you have no idea what GLP-1 stands for, what it actually is, where it's come from and what it's doing on every device across the world, the below is a crash course in the current number one trend in health and wellness
What is GLP-1?
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a hormone produced in the gut that plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels, appetite and digestion. It is part of the incretin family, which means it helps stimulate insulin release after eating, preventing blood sugar spikes.
You must have been on Mars to have missed the immense attention GLP-1 has gained recently due to its role in weight loss and diabetes treatment. This is largely due to the rise and accessibility of GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy.
Discovery
In the early 1980s, researchers discovered proglucagon, a precursor protein found in the pancreas and intestines. They found that this protein was processed differently in the gut than in the pancreas, leading to the production of GLP-1.
Scientists soon found that GLP-1 had multiple metabolic benefits, including:
• Stimulating insulin release
• Suppressing glucagon (which raises blood sugar)
• Slowing gastric emptying (making you feel fuller longer)
• Reducing appetite and food intake
Fast Forward
It wasn't until the 2010s that researchers noticed Type 2 diabetes patients taking GLP-1 drugs lost weight, likely due to their effects on appetite suppression and slowed digestion.
This led to the development of higher-dose versions of GLP-1 drugs specifically for obesity: Saxenda was approved for weight loss in 2014 and then Wegovy was approved in 2021, demonstrating even more dramatic weight loss results.
Explosion
The launch of Wegovy and Mounjaro saw weight loss results become more striking than ever. Studies showed patients could lose up to 15-20% of their body weight, making these drugs far more effective than any previous weight loss medication.
Celebrities and influencers began endorsing their efficacy, further fueling the hype. Demand for Ozempic, launched in 2022, skyrocketed causing global shortages. Social media was full (pardon the pun) of user stories of "easy" weight loss.
Future
Never let it be said that the drug companies don't go after the money! Pharma are now developing even more powerful GLP-1-based medications including oral versions and longer-lasting injections.
The GLP-1 train is well and truly full steam ahead.
How to Activate Your GLP-1 Naturally
(No Injections Required)
• How it helps: Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may support GLP-1 secretion. Some research indicates that curcumin can enhance insulin sensitivity and help balance glucose levels, which could indirectly increase GLP-1.
• Suggested use: Common doses range from 500–2000 mg per day
• How it helps: Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a role in glucose metabolism. Some studies have suggested that magnesium supplementation can increase GLP-1 secretion, which might improve insulin sensitivity and glucose control.
• Suggested use: Recommended intake varies, but typical doses range from 200–400 mg per day.
• How it helps: RLA is a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to have beneficial effects on glucose metabolism. Some studies suggest that RLA can increase GLP-1 secretion, thereby supporting better blood sugar control.
• Suggested use: Typical doses are between 300–600 mg per day.
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There's still no magic pill or quick fix to weight management.
Whilst weight-loss jabs are certainly providing many users with a better quality of life, a balanced diet and being more active are the best ways to support a healthy weight.
