Sometimes progress in the world of weight loss medications creeps along, and sometimes it makes a huge leap forward, as it recently has with GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide. These medications have proven so effective, they’ve completely changed how people all over the world lose weight.
But how exactly do these medications work? Isn’t there a catch? How can you know if GLP-1 is right for you? If you’re new to GLP-1 and are looking for more information, our team at Radiant Skin of Zionsville, IN, is here to help you along every step of the way.
What Are GLP-1 Medications?
GLP-1 stands for “glucagon-like peptide-1,” which is a hormone naturally produced by your body. This hormone plays a key role in regulating your blood sugar levels as well as reducing appetite. A “GLP-1 receptor agonist” is any medication that mimics the effects of this hormone so that the body’s receptors respond in the same way.
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are classified as GLP-1 medications, though they work slightly differently. Semaglutide activates GLP-1 receptors, while tirzepatide activates both GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors.
These medications were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, as they have been clinically proven to be highly effective for curbing blood sugar. It didn’t take long, however, for researchers to notice the significant weight loss patients were experiencing. Soon, GLP-1 medications began receiving FDA approvals for weight loss as well.
How GLP-1 Medications Promote Weight Loss
GLP-1 medications promote weight loss through multiple mechanisms that play off of each other, which is why it’s so much more effective than virtually all other weight loss medications and strategies. These mechanisms include suppressing appetite, slowing gastric emptying, controlling blood sugar and reducing food cravings.
Appetite Regulation
When you take semaglutide or tirzepatide, the medication activates receptors in your hypothalamus, the brain region responsible for appetite control. Essentially, the medication tells your brain, “You’re satisfied, you can stop eating now.” This takes much of the willpower out of what often feels like an ongoing (and losing) battle against hunger and cravings, which is where so many weight loss plans fail.
After starting GLP-1 you will begin to feel full sooner during meals and stay satisfied for significantly longer, cutting down on those sneaky snacks that tend to sabotage your efforts.
Slowed Gastric Emptying
The term gastric emptying refers to how long it takes food to leave your stomach. This is an extremely important metric for weight loss for two key reasons.
First, when food takes longer to leave the stomach, you will feel fuller for longer periods of time after your last meal. The other major benefit of slowed gastric emptying is the calming effect it has on blood sugar spikes. When sugar is allowed to enter the bloodstream more gradually, you can avoid those harsh spikes and crashes that trigger cravings while affecting your energy and mood.
Blood Sugar Management
Delayed gastric emptying isn’t the only way in which GLP-1 medications significantly boost your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar. These medications also strengthen your body’s insulin response by signaling the pancreas to release more of this vital hormone exactly when it is needed.
Adding yet another layer to its ability to promote healthy blood sugar levels, GLP-1 medications also suppress the secretion of glucagon, a hormone that signals your liver to release stored glucose.
While patients with diabetes may not take GLP-1 primarily for weight loss, both diabetics and non-diabetics alike can reliably lose weight by helping the body control these spikes while preventing the storage of excess calories as fat.
Reduced Food Cravings
Finally, in addition to all three mechanisms listed above, GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide can actually lower the dopamine release associated with consuming food.
This embodies the more mindful and practical philosophy behind weight loss that actually works. It’s not about constantly depriving yourself, but reframing your mindset and retraining your mind and body to respond to food differently.
What to Expect From Your GLP-1 Treatment Plan
The first step in a successful GLP-1 treatment plan is to start with intention and lay out a clear action plan, both of which are best addressed in an initial consultation appointment. Your provider will meet with you to discuss your expectations of treatment, in addition to making sure you are eligible to receive GLP-1 medication. Patients with certain allergies, sensitivities or disorders may need to find alternative weight loss approaches.
For most patients, starting a GLP-1 treatment plan means starting with small doses and gradually increasing them over a period of several weeks or months. This approach helps minimize potential side effects while allowing your body to adjust to the medication.
Most people notice reduced appetite within the first few weeks of treatment. Weight loss typically begins soon after, with steady progress over the following months. Results vary based on individual factors, but many people achieve significant weight reduction when combining medication with healthy lifestyle choices.
These medications work best as part of a comprehensive approach. Combining them with balanced nutrition, regular physical activity and adequate sleep maximizes your results and supports long-term success.
Lose the Weight and Keep It Off With Radiant Skin
At Radiant Skin, we understand that sustainable weight loss requires more than just medication. It demands personalized care, ongoing support and a holistic approach to your wellness. Our experienced team specializes in helping you achieve and maintain your health goals through innovative treatments like semaglutide and tirzepatide.
We’ll work closely with you to develop a customized treatment plan that addresses your unique circumstances and weight loss objectives. Throughout your journey, you’ll receive expert guidance, regular monitoring and the encouragement you need to succeed.When you’re ready to stop struggling and get real, dramatic results with GLP-1, call Radiant Skin at 317-344-2972 or book online to schedule your consultation. Let us help you discover how GLP-1 medications can support your path to a healthier, more vibrant you.
