Holistic alternatives to GLP-1 weight loss drugs
Over the last few years, talk of GLP-1 weight loss drugs has been everywhere. While the results are compelling, the side effects can be downright terrifying. For those of us nervous to be first in line to try a new medical intervention to lose weight, there are other options. Pendulum was one of the first companies to introduce probiotics that mimic GLP-1 drugs, and now others have started following their lead. Alone or paired with supplements, these safe and holistic alternatives may be a good way to enjoy the benefits of GLP-1 simulators without incurring the risks.
What are GLP-1 drugs and how do they work?
Ozempic, Rybelsus, Victoza, Trulicity, Byetta, Bydureon, Adlyxin are “GLP-1 agonist drugs.” GLP-1 is Glucagon-Peptide-1, a naturally occurring hormone that regulates blood sugar, decreases appetite and slows down food digestion. An “agonist” is a manufactured substance that attaches to a cell receptor and causes the same action as the naturally occurring substance.
GLP-1 agonist drugs are manufactured substances that mimic the effects of the blood sugar regulating hormone. Costs vary widely, but without insurance generally amount to about $1,000 monthly. Side effects may include nausea and vomiting, burping, gas, fatigue, constipation, diarrhea and dizziness. Due to the fact that they slow down digestion, gut health can be a major issue from these drugs. Bacterial overgrowth, poor microbial diversity and reduced nutrient absorption are just a few of the trickle-down problems resulting from these medications.
What are another alternatives? Researchers have found that gut bacteria can have very similar effects.
Akkermansia: stimulates L-cells to produce GLP-1, making it the #1 strain for metabolic health. It lives in the mucosal layer and helps minimize permeability. Higher akkermansia levels mean lower fasting glucose, better waist-to-hip ratio and increased insulin sensitivity. It improves triglyceride levels and body fat distribution. Akkermansia naturally decreases due to age, menopause and stress.
Anaerobutricum hallii: is a microbe that produces butyrate, increases GLP-1 levels and has anti-inflammatory properties. Low levels are found in people with Type Two Diabetes.
Clostridium beijerinckii and clostridium butyricum are butyrate producers and support GLP-1 production. They help convert fiber into butyrate. Low butyrate production is associated with irritable bowel disorders, poor immunity, metabolic syndrome, celiac disease and colorectal cancer. Clostridium butyricum increases SCFA, butyrate producing bacteria in the gut,and GLP-1 secretion.
Bifidobacterium infantis is a primary fermenter, produces SCFA and is a vital strain in the immune system.
Probiotics do not have immediate effect like Ozempic as they need time to operate.
Probiotic options from Pendulum:
GLP-1 Probiotic: Includes akkermansia, clostridium butyricum and bifidobacterium infantis.
Glucose Control Pro: Contains clostridium butyricum, clostridium beijerinckii, anaerobutyricum hallii, akkermansia muciniphila, bifidobacterium infantis and chicory inulin.
Metabolic Daily Pro: Composed on clostridium butyricum, clostridium beijerinckii, bifidobacterium infantis, anaerobutyricum hallii andakkermansia muciniphila.
Akkermansia 100
Akkermansia 500
Other probiotic manufacturers have jumped on the bandwagon with similar products, including Metagenics with Ultra Flora Weight Management with Akkermansia.
Supplements:
Herbs/supplements may be used alone or in combination with probiotics. Some listed below, such as berberine and inositol, may cause mild stomach upset so it is advised to research thoroughly and start very slowly. (Most herbs have multiple effects/benefits; i.e. berberine is also used to treat stomach bacteria and promote healthy digestion and heart health. It is a good idea to look at each herb’s benefits and side effects relative to your own health.)
Berberine: activates the enzyme AMPK, which regulates metabolism and fat expenditure. It can reduce blood sugar and decrease insulin resistance.
Inositol: known to help the body use glucose more efficiently, promote fat metabolism, and regulate appetite/reduce food cravings.
Calocurb Amarasate Appetite Control: composed of hops known to help curb appetite and cravings and reduce calorie intake.
Tri-Glycemic (Gaia): formulated to promote healthy glucose, lipids, blood pressure and body composition using BLP1, bitter melon, ginger and fig.
AMPK Activator (Gaia): Activates AMPK and SIRT1 while supporting blood sugar with astragalus, ginseng, lemon, knotweed, ginger and bilberry.
Waistline Control (Life Extension): Meratrim proprietary blend uses a peptide complex to boost satiety.
Other supplements that are GLP-1 Agonists: L-Arginine, Curcumin, Cinnamon, Soybean, Resveratrol and Gardenia
It may take trial and error to find the right combination of probiotics and supplements that work for you. Hacking the GLP-1 hormone is a new concept…even more so on the probiotic/supplement side of things. The good news is that natural alternatives are much less likely to have harmful side effects, and may even help other health issues you may be dealing with.
All supplements above are available at 25% off through my Fullscript link.
**When using supplements, it is advised that you consider interactions with medications and seek medical advice before taking them. Always start one at a time, and build up slowly over several days.
