| Lately, there’s been a lot of buzz in the media about GLP-1—especially with the popularity of medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. I’d like to take a moment to break down what all this means and why it matters for your health.
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, but don’t let the name scare you—it’s actually a pretty amazing hormone your body makes naturally in your gut after you eat. Think of it as your body’s built-in helper for managing blood sugar and curbing hunger.
It helps your pancreas release insulin, slows down how fast your stomach empties (so you feel full longer), and even tells your brain you’ve had enough to eat. That’s why GLP-1 has become a hot topic in both weight loss and diabetes management—and why there are now medications designed to mimic its effects.
The cool part? There are natural ways to support your own GLP-1 production too. Let’s take a closer look.
So what exactly does GLP-1 do in your body?
💉 Insulin Secretion: One of GLP-1’s key jobs is to help your pancreas release insulin—but only when your blood sugar rises after eating. This is important because it helps your body lower blood sugar levels without causing dangerous drops, which is a big reason why GLP-1 medications are used for type 2 diabetes.
🍽️ Appetite Regulation: GLP-1 also communicates with the brain, especially the areas that control hunger and satiety. It tells your brain, “Hey, we’re full,” which helps reduce cravings and makes it easier to eat less without feeling deprived.
🕒 Gastric Emptying: Another fascinating function—GLP-1 slows down how quickly your stomach empties food into the small intestine. This means you feel full longer after meals, which can naturally reduce how often you feel the urge to snack or overeat.
⚖️ Weight Management: Because it helps control appetite, reduce food intake, and stabilize blood sugar, GLP-1 plays a big role in healthy weight loss. This is why it’s become such a popular focus in both the medical world and the wellness space.
In short, GLP-1 is a multitasking hormone that helps your body manage food intake and energy more efficiently.
What are natural ways of boosting your body’s GLP-1?
🥦 Fill Up on Fiber
Veggies like leeks, artichokes, and asparagus are rich in prebiotics (like inulin) that help stimulate GLP-1 release.
🍵 Enjoy Polyphenol Power
Green tea, cranberries, and pomegranate not only support gut health but may also encourage GLP-1 activity—partly by feeding beneficial microbes like Akkermansia.
🍗 Protein is Key
Whey protein and lean meats help trigger GLP-1 while also promoting satiety and lean muscle mass.
⏰ Try Intermittent Fasting
Time-restricted eating (like a 10-hour eating window) may naturally enhance GLP-1 signaling and support blood sugar balance.
🏋️♀️ Move Your Body
Regular physical activity—both strength training and cardio—boosts GLP-1 levels and improves appetite regulation.
🧘♂️ Lower Stress, Raise GLP-1
Chronic stress and elevated cortisol can blunt GLP-1. Practices like deep breathing, nature walks, or meditation may be helpful.
💊 Support with Supplements
Consider Akkermansia and GLP-1-targeted prebiotics and probiotics, such as those from the Pendulum brand—studied for their role in metabolic health and natural GLP-1 support.
In summary, GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a naturally occurring hormone that plays a key role in regulating blood sugar, reducing appetite, and promoting a lasting sense of fullness. It also slows stomach emptying and supports weight management—making it a powerful ally in both metabolic health and diabetes care. While medications can mimic its effects, there are also natural ways to enhance your body’s own GLP-1 production through diet, lifestyle, supplements, and gut health support.
Bob Wood, R.Ph.
Supporting Your Health, Holistically |
