Expert insights on GLP-1 medications with Dr. Michael Murray

“Simply put, GLP-1 medications mimic glucagon-like peptide-1, a natural hormone released after eating. This hormone helps regulate fat metabolism, control appetite, improve insulin function and manage blood sugar levels.”

“Known as GLP-1 agonists, these drugs are often taken as a once-weekly injection and have shown impressive results in clinical trials—around 60% of people with obesity achieve a 20% weight loss. However, most regain about two-thirds of the lost weight within a year after stopping GLP-1 agonists, emphasizing the need for long-term lifestyle and nutritional support.”

 

Is the GLP-1 trend here to stay?

“GLP-1 agonists were first introduced in 2005 as diabetes medications, but they have since entered the mainstream. With nearly every major pharmaceutical company investing in GLP-1 drugs, their popularity is expected to continue growing.”

How do GLP-1 medications change eating habits?

“By mimicking the body’s natural satiety signals, GLP-1 medications lead to key changes in eating habits, including:

• Reduced appetite and cravings: Users feel full faster, leading to smaller portions and fewer cravings for sugary, high-calorie foods.
• More mindful eating: Hunger suppression encourages intentional eating rather than emotional or impulse-driven habits.
• A shift towards protein-rich, nutrient-dense foods: With reduced hunger, users focus on quality over quantity, prioritizing nutritious food.

While these effects support weight loss, long-term success requires sustainable dietary and lifestyle changes.”

Are there challenges with GLP-1 medications?

“GLP-1 users face four challenges:

• Digestive issues: GLP-1 agonists slow stomach emptying, which can cause nausea, bloating and discomfort. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and consuming easily digestible foods like smoothies, protein shakes and pureed fruits and vegetables can help.
• Decreased food intake: With a suppressed appetite, some users may struggle to eat enough, increasing the risk of malnutrition. A nutrient-dense diet is essential to support metabolic and physical changes.
• Muscle loss: GLP-1 medications can lead to muscle loss, which affects metabolism. Muscle mass is the fat-burning furnace of the body, so losing it can make weight loss more difficult in the future. It may even accelerate the development of sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass. Combating this requires staying active and engaging in strength and resistance training, while ensuring adequate protein intake – generally, one gram per kilogram of body weight is recommended.
• Facial changes: Rapid weight loss can cause the loss of collagen and fat in the face, leading to sagging skin and a more hollowed appearance.”

What dietary changes would you recommend to anyone taking GLP-1 medications?

“Mindful nutrition is key. The Mediterranean diet—rich in whole foods like fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts and olive oil—can be particularly beneficial. A high-potency multivitamin and mineral supplement also helps ensure adequate nutrient intake.”

“For some of the challenges mentioned above, supplementing the diet with hydrolyzed collagen peptides can be helpful. In addition to being a protein source, collagen peptides provide the building blocks for collagen production and have been shown in several double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials to help maintain skin elasticity and hydration. This makes them a potential solution to the impact of GLP-1 medications on facial appearance.”

How can users manage stopping GLP-1 medications?

“Think of a broken arm in a cast - if left too long the muscles atrophy. Similarly, long-term reliance on GLP-1 agonists may weaken the metabolism, making weight maintenance harder. A well-rounded approach, including regular physical activity, a nutritious diet and proper supplementation, ensures a smooth transition. Another valuable option is using natural GLP-1-boosting supplements, which help signal the body to continue producing and releasing its own GLP-1.”

What is the role of supplements?

“Supplements can be a valuable tool for individuals using or coming off GLP-1 medication. For example, high-quality protein supplements help preserve muscle mass and ensure daily adequate protein intake. As mentioned above, hydrolyzed collagen peptides, such as Peptan^®, boost protein consumption while also offering a range of benefits, including improved skin elasticity and hydration, sports nutrition and more.”

Are there supplements that can boost GLP-1 secretion?

“We’re seeing the emergence of supplements that naturally enhance GLP-1 production, offering a non-pharmacological approach for consumers. One example is Nextida^® GC, a specific collagen peptide composition that has been shown to stimulate GLP-1 secretion. A recent proof-of-concept study found an increase in GLP-1 secretion in a healthy population when consumed 30 minutes before a meal (Grasset). As a natural supplement, it aligns with the body’s processes. Beyond its effects on protein consumption, it also offers broader metabolic benefits. The same study found that Nextida GC reduced post-meal glucose spikes by 42%, making it a promising option for supporting consumers seeking long-term metabolic health.”

Read more about the science behind Nextida GC