Oct 1 (edited) • General discussion
My honest thoughts on GLP-1s
Hi Ladies,
There's a topic I've been thinking about a lot lately, and I know you've probably been wondering about it too: GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy.
Everyone seems to be talking about them. Maybe your doctor has mentioned them. Maybe a friend is using them. Maybe you've considered asking about them yourself.
Today, I want to share my perspective on these medications - not as someone selling you something, but as a certified menopause coach who's been helping women navigate sustainable weight loss during perimenopause.
What Are GLP-1s?
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1. It's actually a hormone your body produces naturally in your intestines after you eat. This hormone does several important things:
- Signals your brain that you're full
- Slows down how quickly food leaves your stomach
- Helps regulate blood sugar by stimulating insulin release
- Reduces appetite
GLP-1 medications are synthetic versions of this hormone.
These medications were originally developed for Type 2 diabetes management, but their weight loss effects led to FDA approval for obesity treatment and have recently been used.
How Do They Work?
When you inject these medications (they're typically weekly injections), they mimic your body's natural GLP-1 hormone but at much higher levels and for much longer duration.
The result? You feel significantly less hungry. Food doesn't sound appealing. You get full quickly. Your blood sugar stabilizes. And yes, you lose weight - often substantial amounts.
Sounds amazing, right?
Here's where I want to have an honest conversation with you.
My Guarded Perspective
I'm not anti-medication. I believe pharmaceuticals have their place, especially for managing serious health conditions. But I am deeply concerned about how quickly and broadly these medications are being prescribed, particularly to women in perimenopause who are experiencing normal (though frustrating) hormonal weight changes.
One of my clients was offered a prescription when she complained about a frustrating 8lb weight gain to her GP. I don't think 8lbs warrants a prescription. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this in the comments.
Here's why I'm cautious:
1. We Don't Have Long-Term Data
These medications have only been widely used for weight loss for a few years. We simply don't know the long-term effects of suppressing appetite and slowing digestion for years or decades. What happens to your metabolism? Your gut health? Your relationship with food?
The studies we do have show concerning patterns when people stop the medication - most regain the weight, often plus additional pounds, because they haven't learned sustainable eating habits or addressed the root causes of their weight gain.
2. The Side Effects Are Significant
The most commonly reported side effects include:
- Severe nausea and vomiting
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Gallbladder problems
- Pancreatitis risk
- and others
But here's what concerns me most...
🚫 3. Muscle Loss Is Real and Dangerous
When you lose weight rapidly on GLP-1s, you're not just losing fat. Studies show that up to 40% of the weight lost can be muscle mass.
For women in perimenopause who are already fighting muscle loss due to declining estrogen, this is devastating. Muscle is what keeps your metabolism strong, your bones dense, your blood sugar stable, and your body functional.
I've seen this firsthand. My father-in-law was one of the early users of Ozempic for his Type 2 diabetes. The medication destroyed his muscle mass and significantly impacted his cognitive function. Watching someone you love deteriorate like that changes your perspective on "miracle drugs."
4. They Don't Address the Root Cause
GLP-1s suppress symptoms (hunger, appetite, high blood sugar) but they don't fix why those symptoms exist in the first place. They don't:
- Balance your hormones
- Improve insulin sensitivity naturally
- Build muscle
- Teach you sustainable eating habits
- Reduce inflammation
- Support your gut health
- Address stress and cortisol
When you stop the medication - and most people eventually do because of side effects, cost, or personal choice - you're right back where you started, often worse off because of muscle loss.
5. Serious Medical Supervision Is Essential
If you and your doctor decide a GLP-1 is appropriate for you, it MUST be used under serious medical supervision with:
- Regular monitoring of muscle mass
- Adequate protein intake (even harder when you're not hungry)
- Consistent strength training
- Nutritional support
It's my belief after watching my father-in-laws swift decline, that taking these medications without this level of support is irresponsible.
I know it's a hot topic. There is a place for these types of medications and for those, I do not judge and am grateful we have the option to aid in their metabolic health journey. I am NOT a doctor, and it's important that you always consult with your physician.
I'd love to open this up for discussion. The more we talk and connect, the less alone we feel.
Have you been offered a GLP-1? Don't get me wrong - it's tempting! I'd love to hear your thoughts!
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My honest thoughts on GLP-1s
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