Introduction to GLP-1

In recent years, GLP-1 (Glucagon Like Peptide -1) has emerged as a critical component of the management of type 2 diabetes.
GLP-1 is a hormone released from the gut in response to food intake and helps to manage glucose homeostasis. It enhances insulin secretion from the pancreas, inhibits glucagon release and slows gastric emptying which contributes to prolonged satiety. These mechanisms make GLP-1 crucial for both glucose control and appetite regulation, which is why it has now been introduced for weight loss and obesity management worldwide.
A GLP-1 Agonist is a medication which mimics the effects of natural GLP-1 within the body. You might know GLP-1 Agonists better by their trademarked medication names Ozempic, Weygovy or Saxenda, these are home injection pens for daily or weekly self-administration.
These medications have been around since the early 2000’s but were predominantly used as physician prescribed medication for diabetics, in recent years their self-selected use for weight loss has sky rocketed with celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Sharon Osbourne and James Corden confirming they have used these medications to achieve their weight loss. It is estimated that in the UK, there are approximately 500,000 people taking GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide for weight loss, with the vast majority (95%) purchasing these medications privately, often through online providers.
These numbers seem set to grow and GLP-1 seems set to be an ongoing part of the weight loss landscape.
If you are considering taking or are taking a GLP-1 Agonist then here are a few points to consider.

1

Before starting a GLP-1 agonist, it’s crucial to understand potential side effects, especially gastrointestinal issues like indigestion, nausea, dehydration and diarrhoea.
2

Discuss with your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks, including whether it’s suitable for you, especially if you have a pre-existing health condition, are taking any long-term medication, have kidney or liver issues, or are planning a pregnancy.
3

Always get a prescription from a registered healthcare professional and be aware of potential side effects like pancreatitis, thyroid cancer or gallstones.
4

These medications can interfere with the absorption and effectiveness of certain other medications, particularly oral medications, due to its effect of slowing down stomach emptying.

You might think that these Weight Loss Medications would be something that were against at The Body Retreat, but actually we feel that for the right individual, under the right medical supervision and when integrated with a comprehensive wellness programme that provides the tools and support to adopt and maintain healthy habits for life will only enhance the benefits of GLP-1 therapy.