GLP-1 Weight Loss: Powerful Medication, Comprehensive Approach
- 14 minutes ago
- 2 min read
GLP-1 peptides such as Semaglutide offer new treatment options for people with significant obesity or multiple health conditions that include obesity.
What Is It?
GLP-1 weight loss peptides are synthetic mimics of the naturally occurring hormone GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide 1), which is released after eating to signal fullness. The synthetic GLP-1 medication is engineered to last a long time in the body and can be injected once a week.
What Does it Do?
GLP-1s help people with obesity lose a significant amount of weight (1).
For those with Type 2 diabetes, there are added benefits (1):
Better blood sugar control
Reduced risk of major cardiovascular events, including heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death
Reduced progression of kidney disease and associated complications
What Do Doctors Observe?
People report feeling full after meals.
Appetite is reduced (including cravings and emotional eating).
Reduced appetite results in weight loss.
Points to Consider
Most side effects are mild and digestion-related, and more serious complications are less likely. It is important to note that rapid weight loss can lead to muscle loss, which can negatively affect metabolism, strength, and blood sugar control. It has also been observed that people may regain weight after stopping the medication.
Comprehensive Medical Weight Loss at TCIM
For people with significant obesity, GLP-1 weight loss peptides can be a powerful medical tool. However, it does not treat other factors, such as hormonal changes or underlying health conditions, and is more effective over the long term when paired with sustainable eating habits and increased physical activity. A comprehensive approach with the supervision of a knowledgeable practitioner offers the best chance of reducing the risk of side effects or muscle loss and maintaining results after the medication is stopped.
At TCIM, we are privileged to expertly guide you on your path to a healthy weight.
Source:
1. National Library of Medicine (US). Semaglutide injection [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2026 May 15 [cited 2026 Aug 13]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a618008.html
The Temecula Center for Integrative Medicine is an Integrative Medical Clinic specializing in all aspects of Functional Medicine.
Our focus is solely on the treatment and prevention of chronic disease and we specialize in helping patients with serious, life-altering illnesses.
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Dr. Erik Lundquist is the founder and medical director for the Temecula Center for Integrative Medicine. He is a member of the American Holistic Medical Association as well as the Institute of Functional Medicine. He specializes in endocrine disorders especially thyroid and adrenal dysfunction, chronic fatigue, migraine headaches, cardiometabolic disorders, and chronic pain.
