6 min read, 1023 words
Anti-Obesity Medication Semiglutide/GLP 1
Is Ozempic or Zepbound the end-all-be-all solution to weight loss? GLP-1 drugs, or AOM’s (anti-obesity medication’s) are clearly the latest trend in regards to weight loss. We’ve heard the AOM’s have been used by many celebrities, Oprah, Ashley Benson, and Sharon Osbourne now these medications are becoming more available and used by the best of us. Are they worth all the hype, what do these medication do, and what ,if any, are the side effects.
First off, what is this medication and how does it contribute to weight loss?
GLP-1 (short for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) medications are a class of drugs that mimic the natural GLP-1 hormone your body releases after eating. They play a major role in blood sugar regulation, appetite control, and digestion. Here’s how they affect your stomach and hormones:
🔬 How GLP-1 Medication Work:
🧠 Affect Hunger Hormones & the Brain
- Increase satiety (fullness) by acting on receptors in the brain’s appetite-regulation centers.
- Reduce hunger by lowering levels of ghrelin (the “hunger hormone”).
- Helps to decrease the “food noise”. Meaning less likely to think about food.
- As a result, many people naturally eat less without feeling as hungry.
🥣 Slow Down Stomach Emptying (Gastric Emptying)
- GLP-1 medications slow down the rate at which food leaves the stomach, helping you feel full longe
- This contributes to smaller portions and fewer cravings.
🩸 Regulate Insulin and Glucagon
- Increase insulin secretion (when blood sugar is elevated).
- Decrease glucagon (a hormone that raises blood sugar).
- Together, this improves blood sugar control, particularly after meals.
⚖️ Impact For Weight Management
- By reducing appetite, increasing feelings of fullness, and improving insulin function, GLP-1 medications effectively promote weight loss
Common GLP-1 Medications:
- Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus, Zepbound)
- Liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda)
- Tirzepatide (Mounjaro – a dual GLP-1/GIP agonist)
⚠️ Common Side Effects of GLP-1 Medications
While AOM’s/GLP-1 medications can be incredibly effective for appetite regulation, blood sugar control, and weight loss, they also come with side effects—especially during the first few weeks as your body adjusts.
Here are the most commonly reported side effects:
🚫 Gastrointestinal Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Stomach pain or bloating
- Indigestion or heartburn
🧠 Other Side Effects:
- Fatigue or low energy
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Dehydration
- Changes in taste or reduced interest in food
These side effects usually occur as the medication slows gastric emptying and changes how your brain and gut respond to food and hormones. The good news is that the side effects typically improve over time.
Body Composition Side Effect:
AOM’s/GLP-1 medications promote weight loss—however, without proper nutrition and resistance training, a notable portion of that weight may come from muscle loss.
✅ How to Manage GLP-1 Side Effects
Here are some practical ways to ease the transition and reduce discomfort:
1. Start with Small, Frequent Meals
- Large meals can trigger nausea or fullness.
- Eat smaller portions and spread them throughout the day.
- Avoid high-fat, greasy, or fried foods which can make nausea worse.
- Be sure to be choosy about the food, choose nutrient dense food over lower quality, less nutrient dense or “junk” type food.
- Make protein the priority, preserving muscle mass is essential.
2. Stay Hydrated
- Sip water consistently throughout the day.
- If you’re struggling with nausea or diarrhea, try electrolyte drinks (like Pedialyte or LMNT) to stay balanced, (if problem persists, always consult your physician )
3. Eat Slowly and Mindfully
- Eating too quickly can worsen indigestion and nausea.
- Chew thoroughly and pause between bites to give your brain and stomach time to sync up.
4. Limit Trigger Foods
- Spicy, fatty, or heavily processed foods may irritate your stomach.
- Stick to bland, easy-to-digest meals like broth-based soups, plain rice, toast, bananas, applesauce, or eggs during rough days.
5. Adjust Your Timing
- Some people feel better taking their injection at night, so they sleep through the peak side effects.
- Always follow your prescriber’s instructions, but let them know if you’re struggling—they may adjust your dosage or timing.
6. Increase Fiber Gradually
- If constipation is a problem, don’t overload on fiber all at once.
- Introduce it slowly with foods like oatmeal, berries, or steamed vegetables, and increase water intake to help it move through.
7. Talk to Your Provider
- If side effects persist or interfere with daily life, don’t hesitate to reach out.
- Your healthcare provider may adjust your dose or suggest anti-nausea medication during the adjustment phase.
Weight Regain
Early studies show that nearly three-quarters of the weight lost while on GLP-1 medications is often regained after stopping the medication. Paying close attention to nutrition for building healthy and sustainable eating habits while taking the AOM. Think of the drug as a kick starter to the forever change. When the the drug is no longer in use, the appetite will most likely return. Wise use of the time while taking the AOM/GLP-1, this time can be used to retrain eating habits. Studies show if load bearing exercise and eating adequate protien are not in place a significant amount of muscle loss can be lost. Again, paying close attention to nutrition (and exercise) to ensure proper food choices and protect from muscle loss.
🎯 A Coach Can Help You Navigate the Journey
While GLP-1 medications affect your chemistry, lasting transformation still depends on your daily actions and support. There is nothing better than having a personal Coach. A Coach will:
- Build a nutrition routine that works with your new hunger patterns
- Choose foods that nourish without triggering side effects
- Stay consistent and motivated—even when things feel tough
- Build an exercise routine that tones your body, retain muscle and decrease the fat.
Take a peak at FNN (Fitness and Nutrition Nation’s) Fitness and Nutrition courses.
Our Sustainable 12 week weight loss program offers guidance for lasting weight loss. Whether you’re on AOM/GLP-1 already or just looking to build sustainable habits, our program allows you to learn life long skills with help from weekly expert, private coaching. You will learn how to eat and exercise for life.
– Coach Marie 🥦
