GLP1 refers to glucagon-like peptide 1, and this unique compound has gained a significant amount of interest in the health and fitness world in the last few years. Glucagon-like peptide 1 is a hormone produced endogenously by the body and plays an essential role in hunger and blood sugar regulation.
There has been an increase in the use of GLP1 medications as therapeutic agents, particularly for those with diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular health conditions. Because of the latest research showing promising benefits in the use of GLP1 receptor agonists on many aspects of health, these medications and therapies are becoming more widely available to the general public.
Let’s take a closer look at why everybody is getting excited about GLP1, and why you should be getting excited too.
Weight Loss
GLP1 medications have been shown to help people lose weight in a healthy way. They can aid appetite regulation and reduce the risk of overeating by promoting a feeling of fullness. They do so by slowing gastric emptying rate and increasing satiety signals to the brain.
The appetite suppressing and satiety inducing effects of GLP1, therefore, make it beneficial as a therapeutic agent for weight management. Those with obesity may benefit from taking GLP1 medications to lower their appetite and make it easier to achieve a calorie deficit for sustainable and enjoyable weight loss.
Blood Sugar Regulation
Individuals with type 2 diabetes may take GLP1 medications to improve their blood sugar regulation. GLP1 agonists may be prescribed alongside insulin for diabetics to provide a more holistic approach to diabetes management.
GLP1 increases insulin secretion when blood glucose concentration is high, supporting the body’s efforts in lowering blood sugar levels and maintaining glucose homeostasis. At the same time, it decreases glucagon secretion to prevent the blood sugar-elevating effects of this hormone and maintain optimal blood glucose levels.
Cardiovascular Health Benefits
Recent research has shown that GLP1 medications can improve cardiovascular health. They may help to lower blood pressure in those with chronically high bloo pressure and improve lipid profiles to decrease the risk of hypertension, atherosclerosis, and coronary artery disease (CAD).
Certain GLP1 receptor agonists (medications that activate the GLP1 receptor and stimulate the same response as endogenous GLP1), such as semaglutide and liraglutide, can lower the likelihood of strokes and heart attacks. GLP1 therapies may, therefore, be used alongside conventional antihypertensive (blood pressure-lowering) medications for optimal cardiovascular health.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Liver disease can include non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition that GLP1 medications may help to treat.
NAFLD can lead to chronic liver disease, liver failure, and type 2 diabetes, and is mainly treated with lifestyle changes. However, research suggests that GLP1 receptor agonists can help to lower inflammation in the liver, aid weight loss, and improve metabolic health to reduce the severity of NAFLD.
