If you’re considering using GLP-1 for weight loss, you probably have lots of questions for your doctor. At the top of the list for many people: How much weight can I lose in a month? Or how quickly can I lose 20 pounds? (Another common question: Do I qualify? Take this short quiz to see find out.)
The answer to these questions is not as straightforward as you might think. “How much weight you’ll lose is truly individualized,” says Cathy Epps, PharmD, Chief Pharmacist at ReflexMD and an operational, clinical, and compliance consultant in Pompano Beach, Florida. “Every person’s body reacts differently to GLP-1.”
To understand why, it helps to understand how GLP-1 works. GLP-1 is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This means it imitates the function of a hormone called GLP-1, which gets released in your GI tract whenever you eat.
GLP-1 prompts your body to increase its insulin production, which lowers your blood sugar. GLP-1 also signals your brain to control your appetite and creates a sensation of fullness in your stomach. But how quickly it prompts these changes—and the intensity of them—varies by person.
If you’re thinking about taking a GLP-1 to assist your weight loss journey, talk to your doctor or chat with a ReflexMD Wellness Advisor now. Then, read on for five ways to improve your chances of success.
Fact #1: Losing weight on GLP-1 might not happen right away
A month is most likely not long enough to see major results on GLP-1. Taking it is not like being on a calorie-restrictive diet, where you can drop pounds right out of the gate. That happens because your body releases glycogen, a carbohydrate that makes you lose water weight, according to the Mayo Clinic.
GLP-1 doesn’t operate that way. Instead, you shed weight on it because it’s an appetite suppressant, the Cleveland Clinic explains. Depending on the person, this effect may not kick in all that quickly, although it will happen eventually.
“You will experience appetite suppression, whether it starts in your first week or your tenth week,” says Dr. Epps. The smart move: Keep expectations in check.
Fact #2: You have to take GLP-1 the right way—and shift your habits
You need to take GLP-1 as recommended and with your doctor’s guidance. You’ll also have to follow a healthy reduced-calorie diet and exercise regularly, following your doctor’s advice on how often to work out. GLP-1 has magical qualities but it’s not a magic bullet.
Consult with a ReflexMD prescriber to determine whether a GLP-1 could be right for your needs.
Fact #3: You need to choose the right foods
You might not feel super-hungry once GLP-1 starts to work in your body. This doesn’t mean you won’t be tempted by your favorite treats, though.
“You could have a cupcake for dinner, but that wouldn’t be helpful,” Dr. Epps stresses. “Eating sugar, or something like white bread, will cause a spike in your blood sugar.” This can counteract the effectiveness of GLP-1, and if you eat like that regularly you may stop losing weight.
Instead, go for healthy options from each food group. “You should eat protein, preferably at every meal,” says Dr. Epps. “This is because GLP-1 can cause muscle loss. Other good choices for a balanced diet while taking GLP-1 include veggies, nuts, and complex carbs.”
Keep your portions sensible, depending upon how many calories per day your doctor recommends you eat. Craving a snack? Go ahead and indulge—about read the right way to snack when taking GLP-1 first!
Fact #4: You can easily manage the side effects
A study in JAMA Network Open—which confirmed other findings that GLP-1 is clinically effective for weight loss—found that the most common side effects are, in order, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue. (Read more about how to manage GLP-1 side effects.)
These issues could make it harder to eat the healthy foods that help GLP-1 function properly in your body—and make it tough to exercise as well.
The solution? “Small, frequent meals spaced throughout the day,” says Dr. Epps. Eating this way will help settle your stomach and give you energy, and aid in keeping your blood sugar level as well.
It also helps to be aware that these side effects tend to fade away!
Fact #5: Consistency is king
Losing weight with GLP-1 means pacing yourself. If you stay consistent and do what’s instructed, you most likely will see results. Give yourself time to adjust—and celebrate each win as it comes.
If you think a weight loss medication like GLP-1 might be right for you, chat with a ReflexMD Wellness Advisor now or take our short quiz to see if you qualify.
