GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide-1) drugs, such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), are commonly prescribed for weight loss and managing type 2 diabetes. These medications work by increasing insulin production, reducing appetite, and slowing gastric emptying. However, for those seeking Natural Alternatives to GLP-1 Weight Loss Drugs due to side effects, cost, or personal preference, several natural strategies can promote weight loss and regulate blood sugar without pharmaceuticals.

High-fiber foods help control appetite by slowing digestion, mimicking the effect of GLP-1 drugs. Soluble fiber, found in oats, flaxseeds, and beans, forms a gel-like substance in the stomach, helping you feel fuller for longer. Insoluble fiber, present in vegetables and whole grains adds bulk to the diet and supports digestive health. Both types are essential for regulating blood sugar and managing weight.

Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that alternates between fasting and eating windows. Popular methods like the 16:8 plan (fast for 16 hours, eat for 8 hours) have been shown to enhance fat burning, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce appetite naturally—similar to GLP-1 medications.

Improving gut health is another effective approach to weight management. Probiotics, particularly Lactobacillus gasseri and Bifidobacterium breve, have been shown to help reduce fat mass and improve metabolism. Incorporating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut can promote a healthier digestive system and support weight loss.

If you’re considering it or are on the journey to medication assisted weight loss , there are some things to consider. As these medications become more popular and accessible, it’s important to discuss your larger health issues for consideration, as these medications can be attained online. Most folks that I work with are sharing good outcomes with weight loss and managing co-occurring health issues. Type II Diabetes and PCOS are just a few. There seems to be evidence, that some folks do not produce GLP-1.

While these medications seem to quiet what is referred to as “food noise” that chatter in our head that tells us we’re hungry when we are not, what they don’t do is give us tools to manage our stress eating without Ultra Processed Food or UPCs.

These foods are designed in labs to produce the “bliss effect”. The perfect combination of sugar, fat, and salt that hijacks our brain and creates a feedback loop that tells us we need/want more. These foods increase anxiety and depression, wreak havoc on our gut microbiome, and are directly related to metabolic syndrome. Michael Moss has recently devoted an entire book to this, “Sugar, Salt, Fat”.

The Food and Mood program, as previously described offers us a set of tools to manage our emotions and stress without food. Effective Communication, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Mindfulness are the major components of this toolbox.

By using Effective Communication skills and not assuming all communication is “confrontation”, we learn reflective listening and the importance of empathy and validation. Speaking from the perspective of “I” rather than “you” allows us to communicate our thoughts and feelings without blame, rather than stuffing our feelings with food and avoiding issues... Learn much more and contact us HERE

Cannabis contains a compound called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is primarily responsible for its psychoactive effects. THC interacts with the brain's cannabinoid receptors, influencing mood, perception, and cognition.

While research is ongoing, studies suggest a correlation between cannabis use and the onset or exacerbation of certain mental health conditions, including:

• Psychosis: Some individuals, particularly those with a genetic predisposition, may experience increased risk of psychotic symptoms after cannabis use.

• Schizophrenia: Cannabis use can trigger or worsen symptoms of schizophrenia in vulnerable individuals.

• Depression and Anxiety: Although cannabis is often used to self-medicate these conditions, long-term use may lead to increased symptoms.

• Addiction: Cannabis can be addictive, and withdrawal symptoms can contribute to mental health challenges.

• Individual Differences: The impact of cannabis varies from person to person. Factors such as genetics, age, and frequency of use play a role.

• Legalization and Accessibility: Increased availability of cannabis may contribute to earlier and more frequent use among young people, potentially increasing the risk of mental health issues.

• Self-Medication: People with underlying mental health conditions may turn to cannabis as a self-medication strategy, which can complicate treatment... Learn much more and contact us HERE