What Is GLP-1? How This Hormone Helps You Lose Weight

You may have heard the term “GLP-1” in conversations about weight loss medication, especially with the rising popularity of drugs like Ozempic and Saxenda. But what exactly is GLP-1, and how does it help people lose weight? This article explains the science in plain language so you can make informed decisions about your health.

GLP-1: Your Body's Natural Appetite Regulator

GLP-1 stands for Glucagon-like Peptide-1. It is a hormone naturally produced in the cells lining your small intestine in response to eating. When you consume food, GLP-1 is released and performs several important functions:

In people with obesity, the GLP-1 signalling system may not function as effectively. This is where GLP-1 receptor agonist medications come in -- they supplement and amplify your body's natural GLP-1 response.

How Do GLP-1 Medications Work?

GLP-1 receptor agonists are injectable medications that mimic the action of your natural GLP-1 hormone. However, unlike the natural hormone (which is broken down within minutes), these medications are engineered to last much longer in the body -- either for a full day or an entire week, depending on the specific drug.

When injected, GLP-1 receptor agonists bind to the same receptors as natural GLP-1 in the brain, pancreas, and gut. This produces a sustained appetite-reducing effect, slows digestion, and improves blood sugar control. The result is that patients naturally eat less, feel satisfied with smaller portions, and experience fewer cravings -- all of which contribute to meaningful, sustained weight loss.

Types of GLP-1 Medications Available

Several GLP-1 receptor agonists are available or emerging on the market. Here are the most relevant ones for weight loss:

Benefits Beyond Weight Loss

While weight loss is the primary goal for many patients, GLP-1 medications offer additional health benefits that make them particularly valuable:

• Improved blood sugar control -- beneficial for patients with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes
• Cardiovascular protection -- semaglutide has demonstrated reductions in major cardiovascular events in clinical trials
• Lower blood pressure -- weight loss combined with the medication's direct effects often reduces blood pressure
• Reduced inflammation -- emerging research suggests GLP-1 agonists may lower systemic inflammation markers
• Improved liver health -- studies indicate potential benefits for patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)

Who Is Eligible for GLP-1 Treatment?

GLP-1 medications for weight loss are generally recommended for adults who meet the following criteria:

For Asian populations, including Malaysians, some guidelines use lower BMI thresholds (BMI 27.5 for obesity, 23 for overweight) due to the higher metabolic risk at lower BMIs in this demographic. Your doctor will assess your individual health profile, medical history, and goals to determine whether GLP-1 medication is appropriate for you.

Who Should Not Take GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 medications are not suitable for everyone. They are generally not recommended for:

• Individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
• Patients with a history of multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
• Those with a history of pancreatitis (use with caution)
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Individuals with severe gastrointestinal conditions such as gastroparesis

A thorough medical assessment is essential before starting treatment. At Seimbang, our doctors conduct a comprehensive evaluation as part of your first consultation to ensure GLP-1 therapy is safe and appropriate for you.

What to Expect When Starting GLP-1 Treatment

Starting GLP-1 medication involves a gradual dose-titration process. You begin at a low dose, and your doctor increases it over several weeks. This allows your body to adjust and minimises side effects. Most patients begin noticing reduced appetite within the first week or two, with meaningful weight loss becoming apparent within the first month.

For best results, GLP-1 medication should be combined with lifestyle changes including a balanced diet and regular physical activity. The medication makes it easier to eat less and move more by reducing hunger and cravings, but it works best as part of a holistic approach to health.

The Bottom Line

GLP-1 receptor agonists represent a significant advancement in weight management. By working with your body's natural appetite-regulating system, these medications help patients achieve clinically meaningful weight loss that was previously difficult with diet and exercise alone. If you are struggling with weight management and meet the eligibility criteria, a conversation with a licensed doctor is the first step toward exploring whether GLP-1 treatment could be right for you.