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- Science-Backed Anti-Aging and Wellness Solutions
GLP-1 Medications & Weight Loss: What You Need to Know About Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, and Getting Results That Last
Let’s break it down.
What is a GLP-1?
GLP-1 stands for Glucagon-Like Peptide-1, a naturally occurring hormone released in your gut when you eat. It plays a key role in:
GLP-1 medications mimic this hormone, but in a more potent and longer-lasting form—helping you feel satisfied with less food and supporting better metabolic control.
- Signaling fullness to your brain
- Slowing gastric emptying (so you stay full longer)
- Regulating insulin and blood sugar levels
- Suppressing appetite
How GLP-1 Medications Help You Lose Weight
- Appetite Suppression They reduce hunger and cravings by acting on the hypothalamus—your brain’s appetite control center.
- Slower Gastric Emptying Food moves more slowly through your stomach, keeping you fuller longer and reducing the urge to snack or overeat.
- Improved Insulin Sensitivity GLP-1s lower blood glucose and insulin levels, which reduces fat storage and promotes fat burning—especially when paired with a low-glycemic or low-carb diet.
- Body Composition Benefits Studies show that weight lost with GLP-1 medications tends to come predominantly from fat, not muscle—which is ideal for long-term metabolic health.
What Kind of Weight Loss Can You Expect?
Weight loss varies depending on the medication, dose, and how well it’s combined with lifestyle changes.
On average:
- Semaglutide: ~15% total body weight loss after 12–16 months
- Tirzepatide: ~20% total body weight loss in the same time period
Results are dose-dependent and most effective when combined with dietary changes and exercise.
Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Names | Ozempic, Wegovy | Mounjaro, Zepbound |
| Mechanism | GLP-1 agonist only | Dual GLP-1 + GIP agonist |
| Appetite Control | Strong | Even Stronger |
| Avg. Weight Loss | ~15% | ~20% |
| GI Side Effects | Common | Slightly higher risk, but dose-dependent |
Contraindications to GLP-1 Medications
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- History of pancreatitis
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Severe gastrointestinal disease (e.g., gastroparesis)
- Known hypersensitivity to the medication or its components
Lifestyle Modifications to Maximize Results
GLP-1s can help you lose weight—but they don’t replace the need for behavior change.
The best outcomes happen when you pair your medication with these core habits:
Count your calories: You must create a calorie deficit! Consider using a Smartwatch with a paired App that will make it easier for you to know your calorie expenditure and to track your caloric intake. It is very easy to “drink around” your GLP-1 medication. If you drink too many calories (coffee drinks, alcohol, etc) you can sabotage your weight loss entirely despite taking your GLP-1 medication.
Prioritize Protein Aim for 80–120g per day depending on your body size. This supports lean muscle mass and improves satiety.
Move Your Body Daily Walking, stretching, light strength training, or any kind of consistent movement will support fat loss and metabolic health. To increase the calorie expenditure, add in some high intensity interval training to your weekly program.
Fasted Exercise Consider exercising on an empty stomach to maximize fat mobilization. Fasted exercise helps keep insulin low—which is key, since high insulin blocks fat oxidation.
Helpful Supplements:
☕ Caffeine (100–300mg) – Take 30–40 mins before exercise. Ex: medium Dunkin Donuts Coffee has approximately 210 mg caffeine.
🌿 Yerba Mate pre-exercise – Boosts GLP-1, supports fat burning even outside workouts: Can also be found in combination with caffeine beverages. Ex: Clean Cause Sparkling Yerba Mate
🌿 Berberine – Lowers blood sugar and insulin- ex: 500mg 2 to 3 times a day before meals
Additional Recommendations:
Focus on Whole Foods Minimize processed carbs and sugar. Emphasize high-fiber veggies, lean proteins, healthy fats, and low-glycemic carbs (especially later in the day if following a carb-cycling approach).
Hydrate Like It’s Your Job GLP-1s can lead to some fluid shifts and reduced thirst—so aim for 80–100 oz of water per day.
Track Your Progress Measure more than just weight: track how your clothes fit, your energy levels, your blood sugar, and mood. Weight is just one piece of the picture.
Final Thoughts:
GLP-1 medications are powerful tools, not magic pills. They make it easier to say no to cravings, regulate your metabolism, and create the kind of calorie deficit needed for fat loss—but the real success comes when you pair them with strategic lifestyle habits.
Whether you’re starting with Semaglutide or exploring Tirzepatide, having a provider who can guide your dose, support your nutrition, and keep you accountable is key.