7 Unexpected Benefits of GLP-1 Medications Revealed by Weight Loss Expert

What is GLP-1 and Why Does it Matter for Weight Loss?

"GLP-1 is a hormone that's made in your gut when you eat," Dr. Kate explains in her post. This crucial hormone performs multiple functions: signaling your pancreas to release insulin, improving satiety, and slowing down food digestion. Unlike medications that artificially boost GLP-1 activity, natural alternatives work with your body's own mechanisms for sustainable results.

The Problem with GLP-1 Medications

Dr. Kate highlights significant drawbacks of GLP-1 medications: "These drugs are expensive and rarely covered by insurance for folks who don't meet strict criteria." She notes that "50% of patients taking GLP-1 agonists experienced nausea," and according to a 2022 study, most participants regained their weight within a year after stopping the medication.

Natural Booster #1: Healthy Fats

"Often you need to eat more fat to lose fat," Dr. Kate reveals. Research shows that unsaturated, long-chain fatty acids strongly stimulate GLP-1 release. She specifically points to a study where "85 grams of pistachios" increased GLP-1 concentrations in overweight adults. Additionally, following a Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil for 28 days significantly boosted post-meal GLP-1 levels.

Natural Booster #2: Protein-Rich Foods

Research has found that "meals with higher amounts of protein stimulate GLP-1 secretion better than those with mostly carbs," Dr. Kate explains. She recommends eggs, which contain beneficial unsaturated fats and choline, and plain yogurt, which studies show can significantly increase GLP-1 production.

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Natural Booster #3: Flavonoid-Rich Spices

Dr. Kate identifies key spices that boost GLP-1: "Curcumin, the primary chemical in turmeric... cinnamon and rosemary." She also mentions green tea's EGCG content, though notes that concentrated supplements may be needed for optimal results.

Natural Booster #4: Berberine

"One of the natural GLP-1-boosting herbs that's getting a lot of attention is berberine," Dr. Kate shares. A meta-analysis found that "just one gram of concentrated berberine significantly lowered cholesterol, BMI, weight, fasting glucose, hemoglobin A1c, and other metabolic markers."

Natural Booster #5: Gut-Supporting Probiotics

Dr. Kate emphasizes the importance of healthy gut bacteria: "These healthy bugs make compounds called postbiotics, one category being short-chain fatty acids." She specifically mentions the bacteria Akkermansia, which not only increases GLP-1 but also enhances fat burning through thermogenesis.

Natural Booster #6: Polyphenol-Rich Foods

To support beneficial gut bacteria, Dr. Kate recommends polyphenols, noting that "the ones found in pomegranate are especially good at supporting Akkermansia." This creates a synergistic effect, enhancing both gut health and GLP-1 production.

Natural Booster #7: Mediterranean Diet

Dr. Kate points to research showing that following a Mediterranean diet, particularly one rich in olive oil, significantly increases GLP-1 levels. This dietary pattern combines many of the individual boosters into a sustainable eating approach.

Combining Natural GLP-1 Boosters for Maximum Results

"The beauty of working with your body using natural GLP-1 boosters is that you can stack these strategies to maximize your weight loss and blood sugar balance," Dr. Kate explains. While these natural alternatives won't deliver overnight results like medications, they offer a sustainable path to weight management with minimal side effects. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

Order From the Kids Menu

Her first tip? “Order from the kid's menu or lunch menu if you can!” she suggests. “Especially if there is a similar item. This is a great way to get smaller servings and save $.”

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Stay Away From the Bread or Chips

Don’t be tempted by a free teaser food. “Limit the bread baskets and chips that come before your meal! Listen, I love the Texas Roadhouse Rolls as much as anyone, but you can easily fill up on those if you aren’t careful! Enjoy a small amount, but be aware of earlier satiety with GLP-1 meds!” she says.

Order Condiments on the Side

Get your condiments on the side. “Ask for heavy sauces or dressings on the side if able! This can help you control how much is used. A lot of times, heavy sauces or dressings can be higher in fat, which may not be tolerated well with GLP-1 meds,” she writes.

Make Healthier Selections

Try to make healthier menu suggestions. “Opt for grilled, steamed, or baked items if able! Again, trying to limit the amount of fatty foods can help reduce GI side effects! If you wanted to get fried food, try to eat in small amounts to see how well it’s tolerated first,” she says.

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Center Your Meal Around Protein and Fiber

“Center the meal around protein and fiber!” she adds. “You can still enjoy your meal and get in protein and fiber! Start by eating the protein source first, and grabbing a side salad, or adding avocado or veggies for fiber!”

Split Up Your Meal

In another post, she reveals 5 more tips for eating at a restaurant on a weight loss drug. One of her suggestions? Cut portions in half. “Split a meal or box up half before you start eating,” she suggests.

Choose a High Protein Appetizer

You don’t have to order off the main menu. Sometimes an app is the healthiest option, she says. “Choose high-protein appetizers instead of big entrées (shrimp cocktail, meat skewers, small charcuterie plates),” she writes.

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Order Extra Veggies

When you get a choice of sides, make healthier selections and sub if possible. “Ask for extra veggies instead of starchy sides,” she says.

Eat Slow

Remember, it’s not a race to finish your meal. “Eat slow & check in with your hunger cues,” she suggests. This helps “with portion control,” she says.

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Choose Meals That Reheat Well

When choosing off the menu, try to focus on items that you can eat the next day. “Pick a meal that reheats well for leftovers,” she says. That way, “you get multiple meals out of one order!” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.