Episodes

  • Potential of GLP-1 Agonists in Alzheimer’s Disease

    Potential of GLP-1 Agonists in Alzheimer’s Disease
    Aug 15 2024
    Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia characterized by memory loss, cognitive decline, and a decline in the ability to perform daily tasks (e.g., planning and organizing). It can also affect mood and personality and impair judgment and language. Research has shown that Alzheimer’s results from amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in brain tissue, which affect communication between brain neurons. The quest for effective treatments remains a high priority. Among the promising therapeutic avenues being investigated, GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) agonists, traditionally used for managing type 2 diabetes and weight, have garnered significant attention for their potential benefits in Alzheimer's disease. In this podcast, we’ll discuss the potential use of GLP-1 agonists in Alzheimer’s disease and how they work. Understanding GLP-1 Agonists GLP-1 agonists are a class of medications primarily used to enhance insulin secretion and improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity. They mimic the effects of the natural hormone GLP-1, which is involved in glucose metabolism and appetite regulation. Besides their glucose-lowering properties, GLP-1 agonists have been observed to have various effects beyond glucose control, including neuroprotective properties. Mechanisms of Action of GLP-1 Agonists in Alzheimer's Disease Neuroprotection: GLP-1 agonists have been shown to exert neuroprotective effects in preclinical models of Alzheimer's disease. They may help protect neurons from damage and death, which is crucial in a disease characterized by widespread neuronal loss. The mechanisms through which GLP-1 agonists provide neuroprotection include reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis (cell death). Amyloid Beta and Tau Pathology: Alzheimer's disease is marked by the accumulation of amyloid beta plaques and tau tangles in the brain. Some studies suggest that GLP-1 agonists might influence the pathology associated with Alzheimer's disease by reducing amyloid beta deposition and tau phosphorylation. While these effects have been observed in animal models, translating these findings to human patients requires further research. Cognitive Function: Clinical trials and studies have explored the impact of GLP-1 agonists on cognitive function in Alzheimer's patients. Preliminary results are promising, with some research indicating that GLP-1 agonists may improve cognitive function and slow cognitive decline. This effect is thought to be linked to the drugs’ ability to enhance neurogenesis (the formation of new neurons) and synaptic plasticity (the ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken over time). Metabolic Regulation: Alzheimer’s disease has been associated with metabolic dysfunctions, including insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism. GLP-1 agonists, by improving insulin sensitivity and glucose regulation. This might address some of these metabolic abnormalities, potentially offering an additional benefit in managing Alzheimer’s disease. Clinical Evidence and Future Directions Research into the use of GLP-1 agonists for Alzheimer’s disease is still in its infancy, and larger, well-designed clinical trials are needed to confirm their efficacy and safety in this new context. Moreover, while GLP-1 agonists show promise, they are not without side effects, including stomach-related side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. As such, their use in Alzheimer’s disease will require careful consideration of the risk-benefit profile for individual patients. Thanks again for listening to The Peptide Podcast. We love having you as part of our community. If you love this podcast, please share it with your friends and family on social media, and have a happy, healthy week! We're huge advocates of elevating your health game with nutrition, supplements, and vitamins. Whether it's a daily boost or targeted support, we trust and use Momentous products to supercharge our wellness journey. Momentous only uses the highest-quality ingredients, and every single product is rigorously tested by independent third parties to ensure their products deliver on their promise to bring you the best supplements on the market.
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    4 mins
  • Weight Loss Plateau with GLP-1 Agonists

    Weight Loss Plateau with GLP-1 Agonists
    Aug 8 2024
    In the journey of weight loss, everyone eventually reaches a plateau, even when using newer GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound). This phase is where the body finds a new set point and weight. During this plateau, some individuals may experience a gradual increase in appetite or “food noise”, while others can maintain their current state. Other metabolic markers like blood pressure and A1c, stabilize or only fluctuate slightly. It’s important to remember that everyone will plateau. And it’s impossible to predict the specific timing, percentage of weight loss, or speed at which a person will reach their plateau when they start a GLP-1 agonist. What do the studies say? Clinical studies show that this plateau typically occurs a little over a year (about 60 weeks) into treatment with semaglutide. However, a common myth is that if you hit a weight loss plateau while using these medications, it means they are no longer working. And this myth can lead to unnecessary frustration and discontinuation of treatment. I like to remind patients that reaching a new set point is a common phenomenon in many health conditions. For example, a patient on blood pressure medication will not become hypotensive indefinitely, and similarly, blood glucose levels will not decrease indefinitely with diabetes medications. So it should be no surprise that you won’t lose weight indefinitely while taking a GLP-1 agonist. This evolutionary mechanism is essential for protecting the body against extremes. In this podcast, we’ll talk about strategies to move past the weight loss plateau if you haven’t yet met your weight loss goal. Understanding Weight Loss Plateaus A weight loss plateau occurs when you stop losing weight despite maintaining your diet and exercise routine. This is a common experience for many people on a weight loss journey, regardless of whether they are using GLP-1 agonists or not. Several factors can contribute to a plateau: Metabolic Adaptation: As you lose weight, your metabolism slows down because your body requires fewer calories to maintain a smaller body size. Reduced Caloric Deficit: You may lose weight quickly initially, but as you progress, the caloric deficit narrows, slowing down weight loss. Water Retention and Muscle Gain: Changes in water balance and muscle mass can temporarily affect weight measurements. Behavioral Factors: Over time, adherence to diet and exercise routines can wane, impacting progress. Why GLP-1 Agonists Are Still Effective During a Plateau GLP-1 agonists continue to work by regulating appetite, improving insulin sensitivity, and promoting satiety. These mechanisms support long-term weight management and metabolic health, even if weight loss temporarily stalls. Plateaus do not negate these ongoing health benefits. Strategies to Overcome a Weight Loss Plateau Reevaluate Your Caloric Intake: As you lose weight, your caloric needs decrease. Adjust your daily caloric intake to reflect your new body weight and activity level. Consider consulting a dietitian to ensure your nutrition plan is optimal. Increase Physical Activity: Incorporate more physical activity into your routine. Adding strength training can help build muscle, which can boost metabolism. When we lose weight, we lose both muscle and fat. Physical activity is crucial during a weight loss journey because it helps preserve lean muscle mass and boosts metabolism, ensuring that the weight loss is primarily fat rather than muscle. Monitor Macronutrient Balance: Ensure you are consuming the right balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Protein, in particular, can help preserve muscle mass and promote satiety. Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for overall health and can aid in weight loss. Sometimes, perceived plateaus are due to water retention, which can be mitigated by drinking adequate water. Manage Stress and Sleep: Stress and poor sleep can negatively impact weight loss. Incorporate stress-reducing activities such as mindfulness, yoga, or hobbies you enjoy, and aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Review Medication Adherence: Ensure you are taking your GLP-1 agonist as prescribed. Consistency is key to reaping the full benefits of the medication. Both semaglutide and tirzepatide should be taken once weekly. Be Patient and Persistent: Understand that plateaus are a normal part of the journey. Patience and persistence are crucial. Celebrate non-scale victories, such as improved energy levels, better blood sugar and blood pressure control, and enhanced overall health. Increase Dose: Increasing the dose of a GLP-1 agonist may be necessary for some individuals, but it isn't always the solution. Some individuals may need dosage adjustments more frequently than every four weeks for optimal results. The goal is to find the optimal dose at which you continue to lose weight gradually, experience appetite suppression, and have minimal ...
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    7 mins
  • Debunking the Myth: "You Can't Stop Taking GLP-1 Agonists"

    Debunking the Myth: "You Can't Stop Taking GLP-1 Agonists"
    Aug 1 2024
    One common misconception about GLP-1 agonists, such as semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound), is that once you start taking them, you can never stop. This myth can deter individuals from considering these highly effective medications for weight loss. In this podcast, we’ll debunk this myth and provide a clearer understanding of how GLP-1 agonists can be included in a comprehensive health plan. Understanding the Role of GLP-1 Agonists GLP-1 agonists help with weight loss and diabetes management by: Reducing appetite and promoting feelings of fullness. Slowing gastric emptying, leading to longer periods of satiety. Enhancing insulin sensitivity and lowering blood glucose levels. These effects make it easier for individuals to adhere to a healthy diet and lifestyle, leading to weight loss and improved metabolic health. Can You Stop Taking GLP-1 Agonists? Yes, you can stop taking GLP-1 agonists, but there are important considerations: Risk of Weight Regain: Stopping GLP-1 agonists without a plan may lead to weight regain. This is because the medication's appetite-suppressing and metabolic effects will decrease, making it harder to maintain a calorie deficit and consume smaller portions. Lifestyle Changes: To sustain weight loss after stopping GLP-1 agonists, individuals must continue to follow healthy eating habits, engage in regular physical activity, and make other lifestyle modifications (e.g., focus on stress management, sleep, and fixing hormonal imbalances). Gradual Transition: In some cases, a gradual reduction in dosage may be recommended to help the body adjust and minimize the risk of weight regain. Medical Supervision: Before discontinuing GLP-1 agonists, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on how to transition off the medication and implement strategies to maintain weight loss. Successful Maintenance After Stopping GLP-1 Agonists To successfully maintain weight loss after stopping GLP-1 agonists, consider the following strategies: Regular Monitoring: Keep regular appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor weight and metabolic health. Healthy Diet: Continue following a balanced diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. You’ll also want to focus on the order in which you eat certain foods: starting with vegetables, then lean proteins and healthy fats, and finally, complex carbohydrates. This will help keep your blood sugar levels stable, avoiding spikes and crashes in energy. Hydration: Did you know that dehydration is often confused with hunger? The general rule is to take your weight in pounds and divide the number in half. This is about how many ounces of water you should drink daily. Physical Activity: Regular exercise can increase energy levels, enhance sleep quality, and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. It also helps alleviate chronic pain and stress, leading to improved mood and overall well-being. But most importantly, regular exercise helps prevent the loss of lean muscle mass and in turn boosts our metabolism. Engage in regular physical activity, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week. Behavioral Strategies: Use behavioral strategies to manage emotional eating and stress, such as mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), or joining a support group. Set Realistic Goals: Set realistic and achievable goals for weight maintenance and overall health. Thanks again for listening to The Peptide Podcast. We love having you as part of our community. If you love this podcast, please share it with your friends and family on social media, and have a happy, healthy week! We're huge advocates of elevating your health game with nutrition, supplements, and vitamins. Whether it's a daily boost or targeted support, we trust and use Momentous products to supercharge our wellness journey. Momentous only uses the highest-quality ingredients, and every single product is rigorously tested by independent third parties to ensure their products deliver on their promise to bring you the best supplements on the market.
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    5 mins
  • Appetite Changes on GLP-1 Agonists

    Appetite Changes on GLP-1 Agonists
    Jul 25 2024
    GLP-1 agonists, such as semaglutide (Wegovy), are popular medications for weight loss that work by mimicking the action of the GLP-1 hormone, which helps regulate appetite and blood sugar levels. While these medications can be very effective, some individuals might experience fluctuations in their appetite over time. If you've noticed that your appetite seems to be coming back even while on a GLP-1 agonist, you’re not alone. In this podcast, we’ll discuss why this might be happening and what you can do to manage it. Why Appetite Might Return Adaptation Over Time Body Adaptation: As you continue with the medication, your body might adapt to the drug's effects. This adaptation can sometimes lead to a gradual decrease in the medication's effectiveness in controlling hunger. Tolerance Development: Similar to other medications, the body can sometimes develop a tolerance, which may reduce the appetite-suppressing effects of GLP-1 agonists. Dietary and Lifestyle Factors Caloric Deficit: If you’ve been eating fewer calories, your body may signal hunger more strongly as it tries to maintain its energy balance. Nutrient Imbalance: Eating a diet that's lacking in essential nutrients can lead to increased hunger and cravings. Dehydration: Symptoms of mild dehydration, such as headache, fatigue, lightheadedness, and difficulty concentrating, can mimic those of hunger. You’re not getting enough sleep: Sleep is closely connected to hormonal balance, especially hormones that control hunger and fullness. When you’re sleep-deprived, leptin, which signals that you're full, drops, making you feel hungrier and more prone to overeating. Meanwhile, ghrelin, the hormone that boosts appetite, increases with lack of sleep, intensifying cravings and contributing to weight gain. Emotional and Psychological Factors Stress and Emotional Eating: High stress or emotional challenges can lead to changes in appetite and eating patterns, sometimes overriding the effects of appetite-regulating medications. Hormonal Fluctuations Hormonal Changes: Your body is pretty smart. It knows what to do to maintain itself. When you lose weight and reach a new lower weight, your body might push back. This happens because of ghrelin, the “hunger hormone”. When you lose weight, levels of ghrelin go up, making you hungry again. Tips to Help Stay Full Longer Focus on Protein Include Protein-Rich Foods: Protein can help keep you full longer by promoting satiety. Incorporate lean meats, beans, lentils, tofu, and Greek yogurt into your meals. Eat Fiber-Rich Foods Incorporate Fiber: Foods high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, can help you feel fuller for longer periods. Fiber slows down digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. But remember to start slow. Too much fiber can cause constipation. Stay Hydrated Drink Water: Sometimes thirst is mistaken for hunger. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help manage your appetite and prevent overeating. The general rule is to take your weight in pounds and divide the number in half. This is about how many ounces of water you should drink daily. Monitor Portion Sizes Control Portions: Eating smaller, balanced meals more frequently can help regulate hunger and prevent overeating. Be mindful of portion sizes and try to avoid large, infrequent meals. Mindful Eating Practice Mindfulness: Pay attention to your hunger cues and eat slowly. Mindful eating helps you recognize when you’re actually hungry and when you’ve had enough. Regular Physical Activity Exercise Regularly: Engaging in physical activity can help regulate your appetite and improve overall metabolism. Aim for a mix of cardiovascular, resistance, and flexibility exercises. This will help preserve lean muscle mass, which is important for maintaining a higher metabolic rate. Manage Stress Stress Reduction Techniques: To control emotional eating, incorporate stress-management practices into your routine, such as meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises. Consult with Your Healthcare Provider Review Your Medication: If you’re consistently experiencing increased appetite despite following these strategies, discuss it with your healthcare provider. They might adjust your dosage or suggest an alternative treatment plan. Thanks again for listening to The Peptide Podcast. We love having you as part of our community. If you love this podcast, please share it with your friends and family on social media, and have a happy, healthy week! We're huge advocates of elevating your health game with nutrition, supplements, and vitamins. Whether it's a daily boost or targeted support, we trust and use Momentous products to supercharge our wellness journey. Momentous only uses the highest-quality ingredients, and every single product is rigorously tested by independent third parties to ensure their products deliver on their promise to bring you the best ...
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    7 mins
  • Does Semaglutide Cause NAION?

    Does Semaglutide Cause NAION?
    Jul 18 2024

    In a recent study published in JAMA Ophthalmology, researchers explored a possible link between the medication semaglutide and a rare type of eye stroke called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). In this podcast, we’ll explain what this means and why it's important.

    What is NAION?

    NAION is a condition that affects the optic nerve, leading to sudden vision loss in one eye. It's considered a rare eye stroke and is not related to artery disease.

    What is Semaglutide?

    Semaglutide is a medication used to help manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes and is also prescribed for weight loss. It works by increasing insulin secretion in response to meals, which helps regulate blood sugar levels. Semaglutide also helps reduce appetite and increase feelings of satiety, leading to lower calorie intake. It slows the emptying of the stomach, prolonging the feeling of fullness after eating.

    The Study's Findings

    The researchers discovered a link between semaglutide and NAION. However, it's important to note that this is just a link. It doesn't prove that semaglutide causes NAION. Showing a connection is only the first step, and proving causation is much more challenging.

    Possible Explanations

    1. Rapid Changes in the Body: When someone starts taking semaglutide, their body undergoes quick cardiovascular and metabolic changes. These changes could trigger NAION, rather than the medication itself being the direct cause.

    2. Common Risk Factors: People who take semaglutide often have conditions like high blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnea, or diabetes. These conditions already put them at higher risk for NAION. Semaglutide might just be a common factor among these patients, rather than the cause of their eye issues.

    Study Limitations

    The authors note that since their institution specializes in eye conditions, they are more likely to encounter higher numbers of NAION cases. This may limit the generalizability of their findings to other settings.

    Additionally, the study's records indicate only whether a medication was dispensed to a patient, not whether it was actually taken as prescribed. This distinction is important for accurately assessing the medication's impact.

    Furthermore, due to NAION's rarity, the analysis included only a small number of cases, which can complicate the interpretation of statistical results.

    What Does This All Mean?

    Scientists need to conduct further studies to determine if semaglutide directly causes NAION or if other factors are at play. And they should be conducted in a larger and more diverse population.

    Expert Picks:

    If you’d like to listen about the benefits of semaglutide, check out the following podcasts:

    • Long-Term Health Benefits of Semaglutide for Weight Loss

    • How GLP-1 Agonists Like Semaglutide Fight Inflammation

    • The Use of GLP-1 Agonists in Post-Heart Attack Care

    Thanks again for listening to The Peptide Podcast. We love having you as part of our community. If you love this podcast, please share it with your friends and family on social media, and have a happy, healthy week!

    We're huge advocates of elevating your health game with nutrition, supplements, and vitamins. Whether it's a daily boost or targeted support, we trust and use Momentous products to supercharge our wellness journey.

    Momentous only uses the highest-quality ingredients, and every single product is rigorously tested by independent third parties to ensure their products deliver on their promise to bring you the best supplements on the market.
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    4 mins
  • How Do GLP-1 Agonists Affect Metabolism?

    How Do GLP-1 Agonists Affect Metabolism?
    Jul 11 2024
    What is Metabolism? Metabolism refers to the biochemical processes in which our bodies convert food and drink into energy. This energy is then used to fuel bodily functions such as breathing, circulating blood, and repairing cells. Metabolism is divided into two categories: Catabolism: Catabolism is the set of metabolic pathways that break down molecules into smaller units to release energy. It involves the breakdown of complex molecules such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into simpler ones like glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids. This breakdown process releases energy, which is captured in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy carrier in cells. In simple terms, catabolism is the breakdown of molecules to obtain energy. Anabolism: Anabolism is the set of metabolic pathways that construct molecules from smaller units. These biosynthetic processes require energy, which is often derived from ATP produced during catabolic reactions. Anabolism is responsible for the growth and repair of tissues, the storage of energy, and the production of molecules necessary for cellular functions. In simple terms, anabolism is the synthesis of compounds needed by the cells. How Does Metabolism Maintain Weight? Our body weight is determined by the balance between the calories we consume and the calories we expend. Metabolism plays an important role in this balance: Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR): This is the amount of energy expended while at rest. It accounts for about 60-80% of daily calorie expenditure and includes the energy required for vital functions like breathing and keeping the heart beating. Thermic Effect of Food (TEF): This is the energy required for digestion, absorption, and removal of ingested nutrients. It accounts for about 10% of daily energy expenditure. Physical Activity: This includes all movements, from exercise to daily activities like walking or cleaning. It can vary greatly among individuals and is the most variable component of our energy expenditure. What Happens to Our Metabolism When We Lose Weight? When we lose weight, several changes occur in our metabolism: Reduction in BMR: Loss of Lean Body Mass: During weight loss, especially if it’s rapid or involves severe calorie restriction, some of the weight loss can be from lean muscle mass. Since muscle tissue is more metabolically active than fat tissue, a decrease in muscle mass leads to a reduction in BMR. Smaller Body Size: A smaller body requires fewer calories to maintain. As you lose weight, your body mass decreases, and thus the energy required to sustain basic bodily functions also decreases. Adaptive Thermogenesis: Metabolic Adaptation: The body responds to caloric restriction and weight loss by becoming more energy-efficient. This means that for a given level of activity, the body will burn fewer calories. This adaptive thermogenesis is believed to be a survival mechanism developed during periods of food scarcity in human history. Decreased Energy Expenditure from Physical Activity: Reduced Body Mass: When you weigh less, the energy cost of physical activities decreases. For instance, walking or running requires less energy if you are lighter. Why Steady Weight Loss is Better than Rapid Weight Loss Steady, gradual weight loss is generally considered more effective and sustainable than rapid weight loss for several reasons we just mentioned: Preservation of Lean Muscle Mass: Slow weight loss helps preserve lean muscle mass, which is crucial for maintaining a higher metabolic rate. Sustainable Habits: Gradual weight loss encourages the development of healthy, sustainable habits rather than quick fixes that are difficult to maintain. Also, keep in mind that rapid weight loss can lead to nutrient deficiencies, as it often involves restrictive diets that may lack essential nutrients. This can cause deficiencies that may impact overall health, energy levels, immune function, and more. It’s imperative that we focus on adequate intake of lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates in addition to vitamins and minerals to maintain our metabolism. Also, slow, steady weight loss is associated with a lower risk of regaining the lost weight compared to rapid weight loss. How GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Affect Metabolism GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists, such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) help with weight loss and affect metabolism. They work by: Increasing Insulin Secretion: GLP-1 agonists increase insulin secretion in response to meals, which helps regulate blood sugar levels. Reducing Appetite: These medications help reduce appetite and increase feelings of satiety, leading to lower calorie intake. Slowing Gastric Emptying: GLP-1 agonists slow the emptying of the stomach, which prolongs the feeling of fullness after eating. When we lose weight, it can have both positive and negative effects on metabolism: Positive Effects: ...
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    10 mins
  • Best Foods While on a GLP-1

    Best Foods While on a GLP-1
    Jul 4 2024
    When embarking on a weight loss journey, it's important to be aware that losing weight can sometimes result in the loss of muscle mass along with fat. This unintended muscle loss can lead to decreased strength, slower metabolism, a less toned appearance, or extra skin. To counteract this, it's essential to incorporate foods that support muscle maintenance and growth into your diet. Consuming adequate protein, healthy fats, and nutrient-dense carbohydrates can help preserve muscle mass, ensuring that your weight loss is both healthy and sustainable. In this podcast, we’ll discuss what foods are best to help maintain muscle mass while taking a GLP-1 agonist like semaglutide or tirzepatide. How does weight loss affect muscle mass? Weight loss can affect muscle mass in several ways, depending on how the weight loss is achieved: Caloric Deficit: Weight loss typically requires a caloric deficit, meaning you consume fewer calories than your body needs to maintain its current weight. If the deficit is too large or if protein intake is insufficient, the body may start to break down muscle tissue for energy, leading to a loss of muscle mass. Exercise: Incorporating strength training or resistance exercises during weight loss can help preserve and even build muscle mass. Conversely, focusing solely on cardio without any form of resistance training may lead to a higher proportion of muscle loss. Protein Intake: As we mentioned, adequate protein intake is important for preserving muscle mass during weight loss. Protein provides the necessary building blocks (amino acids) for muscle repair and growth. Insufficient protein can lead to muscle catabolism, where muscle tissue is broken down. Rate of Weight Loss: Rapid weight loss often results in a higher percentage of muscle loss compared to slower, more gradual weight loss. A slower rate of weight loss allows the body to better preserve muscle tissue while losing fat. To minimize muscle loss during weight loss, it's important to: Include resistance training in your exercise routine Consume adequate protein Avoid excessively large caloric deficits Aim for a gradual and sustainable rate of weight loss What foods help maintain muscle mass while losing weight on a GLP-1? Remember that this discussion doesn’t include all foods that can help support muscle maintenance and growth but it’s a good start. Chicken breast: It’s high in quality protein (22 grams per serving) and leucine. Chicken breast is also low in calories, which can help you lose weight. Try removing the chicken skin to help lower the amount of saturated fat. Fish (Salmon, Tuna): Fish is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory effects and support muscle recovery. Studies also show that omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce muscle soreness. One serving of salmon provides about 20 grams of protein while one serving of fresh tuna provides about 28 grams of protein. Eggs: A complete protein source that contains all essential amino acids, as well as vitamins and minerals like vitamin D and leucine (amino acid), which support muscle function. Eggs are often called the “perfect protein”. One large hard-boiled egg provides about 6 grams of protein. Greek Yogurt: High in protein and often lower in sugar than regular yogurt, Greek yogurt also provides probiotics that support digestive health. Like eggs, Greek yogurt provides all essential amino acids. Pro tip: Keep in mind that Greek yogurt is better than plain yogurt as it provides nearly double the amount of protein (17 grams per serving) that plain yogurt provides in the same portion size. If you’re watching carbohydrate intake, Greek yogurt has about half as much as regular yogurt. Also, plain Greek yogurt is better than flavored Greek yogurt. This is because flavored yogurt has added sugar. Low-fat cottage cheese (2% milk fat): Another dairy product high in protein and also contains casein, a slow-digesting protein that’s beneficial for muscle maintenance during periods of fasting (such as overnight) and weight loss. There are about 30 grams of protein in one serving of low-fat cottage cheese. Legumes (Lentils, Chickpeas): Plant-based sources of protein, fiber, and micronutrients like iron and magnesium, which support muscle function and recovery. Nuts and Seeds: Rich in healthy fats, protein, and micronutrients like vitamin E , iron, and magnesium. Baru nuts and almonds are high in fiber and polyphenols that help your body recover from strenuous exercise. Each provides about that out 7 grams of protein per serving. Tofu and Edamame: Plant-based sources of protein also provide phytoestrogens and minerals like calcium, which are beneficial for lean muscle growth. One serving of firm tofu provides about 11 grams of protein while cooked edamame provides about 18 grams of protein. Quinoa: A whole grain that is also a complete protein like eggs and Greek yogurt. Quinoa provides ...
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    9 mins
  • Digestion and the Impact of GLP-1 Agonists

    Digestion and the Impact of GLP-1 Agonists
    Jun 27 2024
    Digestion is a complex process that involves breaking down food into nutrients that the body can absorb and use. For a healthy person, the time it takes to digest meals and snacks can vary based on the type and composition of the food consumed. Keep in mind the digestive process varies significantly between healthy individuals and those with digestive disorders. While healthy individuals typically digest meals within a predictable timeframe, digestive disorders can cause delays or speed up this process. Keep in mind that GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound) influence digestion by slowing gastric emptying and regulating appetite, which can be beneficial for weight loss and diabetes management but may pose challenges for those with certain digestive conditions. In this podcast, we’ll discuss how digestion is impacted by digestive orders and how GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound) affect digestion. The Digestive Process Explained Starting in the Mouth: The digestive process begins in the mouth when you chew food. Chewing breaks down food into smaller particles, and saliva, which contains an enzyme that starts the digestion of starches, moistens the food, making it easier to move along the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Moving to the Esophagus: When you swallow, food travels down the esophagus. Here, peristalsis—rhythmic contractions—automatically propel the food forward. At the lower end of the esophagus, a circular muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxes to allow food to pass into the stomach and then closes to prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. Stomach Function: Once food reaches the stomach, muscles in the stomach wall mix it with stomach acid and enzymes, creating digestive juices that break the food down into a liquid mixture called chyme. The Small Intestine: In the small intestine, food mixes with digestive juices from the pancreas, liver, and gallbladder. The walls of the small intestine then absorb nutrients into the bloodstream before peristalsis moves the remaining mixture forward. Large Intestine Function: Undigested food, fluids, and damaged cells from the GI tract's lining enter the large intestine or colon. Here, water is absorbed, transforming the waste material from liquid to stool. Peristalsis then moves the stool into the rectum, where it is stored until it is expelled during a bowel movement. Typical Digestion Times: Liquids: Water and other clear fluids pass through the stomach quickly, usually within 20-30 minutes. Simple Carbohydrates: Foods like fruit, white bread, and sugary snacks are typically digested within 30-60 minutes. Complex Carbohydrates: Whole grains, quinoa, vegetables, and legumes take longer, around 2-3 hours. Proteins: Meat, dairy, and other high-protein foods generally take 3-4 hours to digest. Fats: Fatty foods such as nuts, cheese, and fried foods are the slowest to digest, often taking up to 6 hours or more. On average, the entire digestive process, from ingestion to elimination, can take about 24-72 hours in healthy individuals. Digestion in Individuals with Digestive Disorders Digestive disorders can significantly alter the time it takes for food to move through the digestive system. Conditions such as gastroparesis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can disrupt normal digestive function. Gastroparesis: This condition, often caused by diabetes or other underlying issues, slows stomach emptying. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and bloating. In gastroparesis, digestion can be severely delayed, with food remaining in the stomach for prolonged periods, sometimes up to several hours longer than normal. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS can cause both accelerated and delayed digestion, depending on whether diarrhea-predominant (IBS-D) or constipation-predominant (IBS-C) symptoms are present. IBS-D can lead to faster transit times, while IBS-C can slow digestion, causing significant delays in the passage of food. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis involve chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, which can disrupt normal digestion. Depending on the severity and location of inflammation, digestion can be faster or delayed. What is the Impact of GLP-1 Agonists on Digestion? GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) agonists, such as semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound), are medications primarily used for managing type 2 diabetes and obesity. These drugs mimic the action of the GLP-1 hormone, which plays an important role in regulating appetite, insulin secretion, and gastric motility. Slowed Gastric Emptying: GLP-1 agonists slow the rate at which food leaves the stomach. This effect can help increase feelings of fullness and reduce overall food intake, contributing to weight loss. In healthy individuals, this slowed gastric emptying can extend...
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    10 mins