What You Need to Know

3 Key Takeaways

1. GLP-1 medications can support sustainable weight loss by regulating appetite, blood sugar, and fat metabolism, especially when paired with healthy lifestyle habits.
2. They are prescription-only and not suitable for casual weight loss, making a medical consultation essential before starting.
3. GLP-1 is not a magic solution, but a supportive tool for those with obesity or weight-related health issues struggling with traditional diet and exercise alone.

While eating less and moving more are essential for weight loss, they are sometimes not enough, especially when underlying health factors are at play. For many, deeper challenges like hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and metabolic dysfunction can make losing weight much harder than it seems.

This is where GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) comes in, a naturally occurring hormone that helps regulate hunger, digestion, and blood sugar. Recently, GLP-1 medications have become popular for helping people lose significant amounts of weight, particularly when combined with lifestyle changes.

What is GLP-1 and how does it work?

GLP-1, which stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, is a hormone naturally released in the gut. It belongs to a group of hormones called incretins, which are released after eating, helping your body manage blood sugar and energy use. They influence hunger signal, insulin secretion, and blood sugar levels. 

Primary functions include:

• Stimulates insulin release – GLP-1 tells your pancreas to release insulin only when your blood sugar goes up after a meal. This helps the body absorb glucose properly (for energy) without unnecessary spikes.

• Regulates blood sugar – GLP-1 also suppresses the release of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels. This then helps keep your glucose levels stable and steady.

• Slows down digestion – GLP-1 slows gastric emptying, delaying how fast food leaves your stomach. This help you feel full longer, reducing the impulse to overeat or snack between meals.

For further reading: GLP-1 Meds are Changing the Aesthetic Industry, Reports Say

What happens when GLP-1 levels are too low?

As previously mentioned, the GLP-1 hormone plays an important role in regulating appetite, blood sugar, and insulin production. When the body produces too little of it, it may contribute to overeating, increasing the likelihood of weight gain or obesity. 

Low levels of GLP-1 can lead to:

• Increased appetite and overeating – Reduced satiety signals to the brain may lead to larger meals and more frequent snacking.
• Increased risk of obesity – Overeating combined with reduced metabolic regulation can promote weight gain.
• Higher risk of type 2 diabetes – GLP-1 helps regulate blood sugar; low levels can impair glucose control.
• Impaired insulin secretion – Less GLP-1 can reduce insulin production, making it harder for the body to manage blood sugar levels.

Insufficient GLP-1 disrupts important processes that help maintain a healthy weight and stable blood sugar, increasing the likelihood of obesity and diabetes over time. GLP-1 medications, combined with positive lifestyle changes, can help restore balance by supporting appetite regulation and enhancing insulin response.

GLP-1: Effects on hunger and cravings

• Reduces appetite – Following a meal, your GLP-1 level increases, which then signals the brain that you’ve eaten enough food. This creates a feedback loop that curbs much calorie intake, helping in weight loss.

• Signals fullness – GLP-1 acts on the hypothalamus, the area in your brain that regulates appetite. Elevated levels of GLP-1, some studies show, suppress hunger hormones (like ghrelin) while boosting satiety hormones (such as leptin).
• Slows stomach emptying – Delayed gastric emptying or the slowed movement of the food from the stomach to the intestines promotes the feeling of satiety. This reduces appetite naturally, without the need for stimulants or extreme dieting.

GLP-1: Effects on blood sugar and fat storage

Unstable blood sugar can lead to energy crashes, cravings, and overeating. This then creates a cycle that contributes to (further) weight gain. GLP-1 helps by:

• Stimulating insulin only when needed (blood sugar levels rise)
• Reducing glucose spikes after meals
• Helping prevent the cycle of sugar cravings and binge eating

Research suggests that GLP-1 plays a role in fat metabolism too:

• It supports lipolysis (breaking down stored fat)
• It may help reduce lipogenesis (the creation of new fat)
• Consistent appetite and blood sugar regulation via GLP-1 activity may lower levels of visceral fat, the harmful fat stored around your organs.

What are GLP-1 medications for weight loss? 

GLP-1 medications, called GLP-1 receptor agonists, are designed to mimic the effects of the natural GLP-1 hormone. They bind to the body’s GLP-1 receptors, boosting its effect on appetite, digestion, and blood sugar. While originally developed for type 2 diabetes, they are now recognized for weight loss because of their appetite-suppressing effects.

In a clinical trial about the weight loss effects of semaglutide in obesity, researchers found that participants taking said medication lost an average of 15% of their body weight, compared to 2–4% in the placebo group. Studies also indicate that semaglutide is considered safe for long-term use when prescribed appropriately.

GLP-1 medications, such as semaglutide, liraglutide, and dulaglutide, are available in different brand names. They are prescription-only, which means you can only get them after a consultation with a healthcare professional who will write a prescription. You should not buy them from unregulated sellers like salons or social media, especially without prior consultation. 

Are GLP-1 medications right for me?

These medications aren’t for everyone. While they are approved for managing type 2 diabetes and obesity, not everyone with diabetes or carrying excess weight needs to take GLP-1 receptor agonists. GLP-1 is generally prescribed for:

• Adults with a BMI of 30 or higher (obese)
• Those with a BMI of 27 or higher who have weight-related health issues, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes

GLP-1 medications are best paired with a healthy diet or regular exercise. Keep in mind that they are not intended for casual weight loss. Always consult a healthcare professional to determine if they are right for you.

What to expect: Side effects and safety

GLP-1 medications are generally well tolerated, but side effects can occur, especially in the beginning. These may include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Bloating or mild stomach discomfort

In most cases, side effects lessen as your body adjusts to the medication. Your healthcare provider can help manage symptoms if they arise. Medical supervision is essential to ensure safety, proper dosage, and long-term results.

The role of GLP-1 in sustainable weight loss

GLP-1 isn’t a magic solution, but it can be highly beneficial when used as part of a comprehensive weight management plan. It helps:

• Control hunger
• Balance blood sugar
• Reduce fat storage
• Encourage long-term behavior change

If you’re considering GLP-1 medication, speak with a qualified healthcare provider. They can evaluate your health, discuss your goals, and create a personalized weight loss plan.

It is also important to keep in mind that sustainable weight loss is a journey; it’s about building healthy habits you can stick with. Whether you use medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of both, the goal is long-term health and well-being.

Let Cutis help

Ready to explore GLP-1 for weight management? Contact us to book your consultation with one of our aesthetic doctors in Singapore. Let’s create a plan that works for you.

Resources:

https://www.yourhormones.info/hormones/glucagon-like-peptide-1/

https://www.healthline.com/health/type-2-diabetes/considering-glp1s#glp-1-types

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-024-02996-7