WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM
WHAT IS GLP-1?
GLP-1 is a hormone produced in the intestines in response to food intake.
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IT HAS SEVERAL FUNCTIONS:
​STIMULATES INSULIN SECRETION
Enhances the secretion of insulin from the pancreas in response to high blood glucose levels.
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INHIBITS GLUCAGON RELEASE
Reduces the release of glucagon, a hormone that increases blood glucose levels.
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SLOWS GASTRIC EMPTYING
Delays the emptying of the stomach, which helps control appetite and prolongs the feeling of fullness.
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PROMOTES SATIETY
Promotes Satiety: Signals to the brain to reduce food intake, contributing to weight loss.
HOW DO GLP-1 MEDICATIONS WORK?
GLP-1 medications are synthetic versions of the natural hormone or compounds that mimic its action.
THEY HELP REGULATE BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS AND SUPPORT WEIGHT MANAGEMENT THROUGH THE FOLLOWING MECHANISMS:​​
INCREASING INSULIN PRODUCTION
When blood sugar levels rise, GLP-1 medications stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin, helping lower blood glucose.
SUPPRESSING GLUCAGON RELEASE
By reducing the secretion of glucagon, these medications prevent the liver from releasing too much glucose into the bloodstream.
SLOWING GASTRIC EMPTYING
By delaying the rate at which the stomach empties its contents, GLP-1 medications help control postprandial (after meal) blood sugar spikes and promote a feeling of fullness.
REDUCING APPETITE
GLP-1 medications act on the brain to decrease appetite, leading to reduced calorie intake and potential weight loss.
WE OFFER TWO TYPES OF INJECTABLE PEPTIDES
Semaglutide
(Ozempic, Rybelsus, Wegovy)
Available as a weekly injection (Ozempic) and an oral tablet (Rybelsus) for type 2 diabetes, and as an injection (Wegovy) for weight management.
Tirzepatide
(Mounjaro)
A newer medication that targets both GLP-1 and another hormone, GIP, providing enhanced blood sugar control and weight loss benefits.
BENEFITS OF GLP-1 MEDICATIONS
IMPROVED BLOOD SUGAR CONTROL
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Effective in lowering and stabilizing blood glucose levels.
WEIGHT LOSS
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Helps with weight loss by reducing appetite and slowing gastric emptying.
CARDIOVASCULAR BENEFITS
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Some GLP-1 medications have been shown to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in people with type 2 diabetes.
LOW RISK OF HYPOGLYCEMIA
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Unlike some diabetes medications, GLP-1 medications have a lower risk of causing dangerously low blood sugar levels.
HOW DO GLP-1 MEDICATIONS WORK?
COMMON SIDE EFFECTS
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Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation are common, especially when starting the medication or increasing the dose.
SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS
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Rarely, GLP-1 medications can cause pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, or allergic reactions.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
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Not suitable for individuals with a history of certain thyroid cancers or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
WHY GLP-1?
​​GLP-1 medications offer significant benefits for managing type 2 diabetes and obesity by enhancing insulin secretion, reducing appetite, and promoting weight loss. They are generally well-tolerated, but as with any medication, they should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure safety and efficacy.
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schedule AN appointment with our Nurse Practitioner, Christa Wagnon.
