What are GLP-1/GIP medications?
If you’ve been hearing a lot about GLP-1 medications lately, you’re not alone! These medications have been making waves in the world of and weight loss. But what exactly are they, and how do they work? Let’s break it down in a simple and easy-to-understand way.
Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) and gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP)are the two primary hormones secreted from the intestine when you ingest food. These hormones stimulate insulin production by your pancreatic cells. Keeping insulin levels stable can play a key role in weight loss because insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar and fat storage. Here’s how it works.
1. Prevents Fat Storage
When insulin levels are consistently high—often due to frequent consumption of sugary or processed foods—your body stays in “fat storage mode.” This means that instead of burning stored fat for energy, your body is more likely to store excess glucose as fat. Keeping insulin stable helps your body switch to “fat-burning mode” instead.
2. Reduces Hunger and Cravings
Insulin spikes can lead to blood sugar crashes, which trigger intense hunger and cravings, especially for high-carb, high-sugar foods. When insulin remains stable, blood sugar levels stay more balanced, reducing sudden hunger spikes and making it easier to eat fewer calories.
3. Improves Energy Use
When insulin is stable, your body can better regulate energy usage. Instead of relying on quick sugar spikes, your body can gradually break down stored fat for fuel. This helps with sustained energy levels and encourages weight loss over time.
4. Supports Hormonal Balance
Insulin interacts with other hormones like cortisol (stress hormone) and leptin (the hormone that signals fullness). Stable insulin levels help prevent excess cortisol (which can promote belly fat storage) and allow leptin to function properly, so your brain recognizes when you’re full.
By keeping insulin levels steady—through balanced meals, reduced sugar intake, and GLP-1 GIP agonists—your body can more effectively burn fat, control appetite, and promote long-term weight loss.
How Does GLP-1 Work in Your Body?
To understand how these medications help, it’s helpful to know about the natural GLP-1 hormone that your body already makes. This hormone, produced in your small intestine, plays several important roles:
Helps Release Insulin: GLP-1 signals your pancreas to release insulin, which is essential for keeping your blood sugar in check.
Blocks Glucagon Secretion: Glucagon is a hormone that raises blood sugar levels. GLP-1 helps prevent too much glucagon from being released.
Slows Digestion: By slowing down how quickly food leaves your stomach, GLP-1 helps keep blood sugar levels more stable.
Reduces Hunger and Increases Fullness: GLP-1 sends signals to your brain that help you feel fuller for longer, which can reduce cravings and overall food intake.
GLP-1/GIP medications mimic the natural hormones in your body. These medications attach to GLP-1/GIP receptors and trigger the same beneficial effects, helping to regulate blood sugar, control hunger, and even promote weight loss.
With science-backed benefits and ongoing research into their potential, GLP-1/GIP medications are helping many people take control of their health in new and exciting ways.
Studies have found that people who are overweight or obese may have a reduction in GLP-1/GIP effects, especially if they have had frequent weight fluctuations due to yo-yo dieting. Reprogramming your metabolic system isn’t about restricting calories or implementing extreme physical activity into your routine. Instead, it’s about incorporating impactful and sustainable changes in the foods you eat, how you sleep, how much you exercise, and how your emotional health is supported.
The FDA-approved medication Semaglutide, which also goes by the brand name Ozempic or Wegovy is being used as a tool to help with weight loss.
Tirzepatide(Manjaro) works similarly to the other drugs in the GLP-1 family, but it stimulates both the GLP-1 and the GIP hormone receptors involved in blood sugar control: Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) and, Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide (GIP). This unique dual action makes it the first-in-class medicine that acts on both of these receptors. For this reason, Tirzepatide which was recently approved by the FDA, is thought to reduce weight in greater amounts and works better for individuals with a larger amount of weight to lose.
Common Side Effects of Semaglutide & Tirzepatide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound)
Some people will experience no side effects from these medications, however, side effects can occur. You are at a higher risk of experiencing side effects when you first start taking GLP-1/GIP medications, or when you increase a dosage. Most side effects are mild and improve over time. With the help of our highly experienced registered nurses at Ciao Bella Med Spa in Lincoln NE, we can help you to minimize and treat any side effects you may experience.
Most Common Side Effects:
Upset Stomach – This can include vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.
Bloating & Gas – Some people feel full or gassy.
Heartburn or Burping – Acid reflux can be a problem for some.
Less Hunger – Helps with weight loss but may take time to adjust.
Tiredness – Feeling more fatigued than usual.
Less Common but Important to Watch For:
Severe Stomach Pain – This could be a sign of pancreatitis (an inflamed pancreas).
Gallbladder Issues – Symptoms like pain in the upper right belly or nausea after eating fatty foods.
Dehydration – This can lead to kidney problems if you don’t drink enough water.
Thyroid Concerns (Rare) – In animal studies, there was a possible risk of thyroid tumors.
Tips to Feel Better:
Eat small meals and avoid greasy or spicy foods.
Drink plenty of water.
Start slow—your body needs time to adjust!
If you are interested in finding out if you qualify to take these medications you can contact Ciao Bella Med Spa located in Lincoln, NE at 402-416-5636 or schedule an appointment online at www.ciaobellamedspa.net to see one of our licensed healthcare professionals.
