What Is GLP-1? Benefits, Side Effects, and Natural Alternatives

Understanding GLP-1: A Powerful Ally in Weight Management and Metabolic Health

In the world of metabolic health and weight management, few topics are generating more buzz than GLP-1 receptor agonists. Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, these medications are now at the forefront of obesity treatment — and for good reason.

But what exactly is GLP-1, how does it work, and what are the benefits and possible risks? Let’s break it down based on science-backed evidence and clinical data.

What is GLP-1?

GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) is a naturally occurring hormone produced in the gut in response to eating. It plays a critical role in:

• Stimulating insulin secretion

• Suppressing glucagon (a hormone that raises blood sugar)

• Slowing gastric emptying (how fast food leaves the stomach)

• Increasing satiety (the feeling of fullness)

Because of these effects, GLP-1 helps regulate blood glucose and contributes to appetite control.

Clinical Use: GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

Pharmaceutical companies have developed GLP-1 receptor agonists — synthetic versions of GLP-1 — to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. Common FDA-approved GLP-1 medications include:

• Semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®)

• Liraglutide (Victoza®, Saxenda®)

• Dulaglutide (Trulicity®)

These drugs mimic the natural hormone, providing longer-lasting benefits with once-weekly or daily dosing.

Benefits of GLP-1 Agonists

1. Effective Weight Loss

GLP-1 medications are highly effective in promoting weight loss. In the STEP 1 clinical trial, participants taking semaglutide 2.4 mg (Wegovy®) lost an average of 14.9% of their body weight over 68 weeks, compared to 2.4% in the placebo group.
(Source: Wilding et al., New England Journal of Medicine, 2021)

This makes GLP-1 one of the most effective pharmacological tools for obesity management.

2. Blood Sugar Control

GLP-1 agonists lower hemoglobin A1C (a long-term measure of blood sugar) by 1–1.5% on average in people with type 2 diabetes.
(Source: Nauck et al., Diabetes Care, 2009)

This not only improves glycemic control but reduces the risk of complications like nerve damage, vision loss, and kidney disease.

3. Heart Health

Several GLP-1 agonists have shown cardiovascular benefits. For example, liraglutide reduced the risk of major adverse cardiac events by 13% in the LEADER trial.
(Source: Marso et al., NEJM, 2016)

This makes them particularly valuable for patients with both obesity and heart disease risk.

Potential Side Effects

While generally well-tolerated, GLP-1 agonists can cause side effects, particularly when treatment is first started or doses are increased:

Common:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Constipation

• Reduced appetite (which may be desired)

These symptoms usually subside after a few weeks as the body adjusts.

Serious (but rare):

• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas

• Gallbladder disease: Especially with rapid weight loss

• Kidney injury: Usually secondary to dehydration

• Thyroid C-cell tumors: Seen in rodents, but relevance to humans is unclear. Contraindicated in those with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).

Important: GLP-1 medications are prescription-only and should be used under medical supervision, particularly for those with pre-existing gastrointestinal, pancreatic, or thyroid conditions.

Who Might Benefit from GLP-1 Therapy?

• Adults with type 2 diabetes

• Individuals with a BMI ≥30 (or ≥27 with obesity-related conditions)

• Patients struggling with appetite control or emotional eating

• People at risk for cardiovascular disease

This therapy is often part of a comprehensive lifestyle approach including dietary changes, increased physical activity, and behavioral support.

Supplements That May Support GLP-1 Function Naturally

Though not a replacement for medication, some nutrients may enhance natural GLP-1 production or mimic similar metabolic effects:

• Berberine: May improve insulin sensitivity and support GLP-1 signaling

• Inulin (prebiotic fiber): Fermentation in the gut may promote GLP-1 release

• Whey protein: Stimulates GLP-1 secretion post-meal

Customers interested in natural metabolic support can ask our team instore or message us online at PlanetSupplements.com about these scientifically backed options.

Final Thoughts

GLP-1 therapy represents a breakthrough in metabolic medicine — offering powerful weight loss, blood sugar control, and cardiovascular benefits. While not a magic bullet, it’s a valuable tool for those struggling with obesity and diabetes when combined with lifestyle changes.

At Planet Supplements, we're committed to educating and empowering our community with the latest science, so you can make confident health choices. Whether you’re exploring natural alternatives or want to learn more about GLP-1-supportive supplements, we’re here to help.

Need help finding products that support metabolic health? Visit us in-store in Charlotte / Concord or shop online at PlanetSupplements.com. Our team is always ready to guide you.

References

1. Wilding, J.P.H. et al. (2021). Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. New England Journal of Medicine.

2. Nauck, M.A. et al. (2009). Incretin-based therapies: how do they work? Diabetes Care.

3. Marso, S.P. et al. (2016). Liraglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes. NEJM.