A Girlfriend's Guide to GLP1's for Weight Loss

To GLP or Not to GLP? That is the question my friends. And the answer is not easy but I’m here to help break it down in an easily digestible way for all you lovely ladies out there who have been pondering this question.

For some, especially those managing diabetes or cardiovascular disease, GLP medications are often recommended and can play an important role in protecting long-term health. In those cases, the benefits are clear and medically supported. If the goal is purely weight loss, however, taking a GLP can become more of a personal choice. These medications can certainly help kickstart progress, but the same results can often be achieved through other approaches — without the added cost or the potential risks of adding another drug into your daily routine.

Whatever you choose, us women in the age range between 40–60 years young are the highest utilizers of these high-dollar items. And what happens during these years? Hormone havoc — that’s what. And it sucks. Out of the blue, you start to gain weight, especially in your belly, and your sleep patterns are anything but normal and you haven’t done anything differently! You are not eating more, you are not exercising less, you are just adding pounds to the scale with no fault of your own. To top it all off, you likely feel somewhat socially isolated because you all of a sudden are apparently “quite irritable”, or at least that is what your friends, children, coworkers, and random strangers on the street will tell you. And, your new BFF is not your high school buddy anymore, but that little paper fan you keep in your purse for those freakish acts of random sweating you are now experiencing.

So how do you get back on track, at least with your weight management initiatives? It starts with a heart-to-heart conversation with your primary care provider. And then, you weigh your options…

Option 1: To GLP…

Pros:

• Significant weight loss can be achieved for a good amount of people. The exact percentage of “responders” is hard to estimate as it depends on the dose of drug and other variables. The kick-start that these medications give some individuals can be a game changer. While some will succeed at weight loss quickly without medications, for others it is more challenging and these can really help give those individuals that boost of confidence that they needed to succeed.

• Can help decrease “food noise” as your hunger hormones are not as active which means you don’t really think about snacking as much as normal and you feel full quicker.

Cons:

• It is an injection and often involves incremental dose increases over a designated period of time. Although they are working on some new oral medications, at the present time most require you inject yourself with a needle once a week — which can be a show-stopper for some.

• Side effects: Number one downside is the gastrointestinal side effects. Some people can handle them and others simply cannot. The most common are nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation. There are other side effects such as potential increased risk of pancreatitis, bowel obstruction, certain types of cancer, and loss of bone mineral density.

• Loss of lean muscle mass: Because these medications curb appetite, your daily calorie and protein consumption will likely decrease significantly. This leads to your body breaking down muscle instead of fat and the end result is that your resting metabolic rate (RMR) suffers. For this reason, it is highly recommended to begin a consistent resistance training program so that you can build muscle and maintain your RMR. Increasing daily protein intake also helps of course, although if the medication curbs your appetite too much you may find it hard to gulp down a protein shake.

• Rebound weight gain: This is a real thing which can happen after you stop taking a GLP. Research is still being conducted with regards to the exact mechanism involved.

• Cost: The prices without insurance coverage can range anywhere from $500–$1,500 per month, so extremely expensive! While most plans will cover this type of medication for diabetes or even cardiovascular protection, only some will cover these for weight loss.

  
  

  

Option 2: Not To GLP…

Pros:

• All natural and side effect free. You’re letting your body do what it was designed to do — heal, balance, and thrive without the added layer of medication.

• Extra spending money. Instead of shelling out $500–$1,500 a month, you can invest in things that truly enrich your life: a gym membership, a personal trainer, a lifestyle coach, massage or yoga classes, or even meal-prep services that deliver delicious, nutrient-packed food right to your door.

• Preservation of lean muscle mass. By fueling your body properly with protein and nutrient-rich foods, you’re maintaining muscle and keeping your metabolism strong — no “starving your way” into weight loss.

• More sustainable habits. When you build a lifestyle around healthy choices — balanced meals, strength training, daily movement, stress management, and quality sleep — those habits stick around for the long haul. No quick fixes, no yo-yo dieting… just confidence, strength, and energy that keeps growing.

• Whole-person wellness. Choosing the lifestyle route means you’re not just working on the scale — you’re also improving mood, energy, focus, and long-term health.

Cons:

• Requires a bit more patience but it can be well worth it in the long run. The changes can feel slow if you aren’t setting realistic goals, and you may hit a few plateaus along the way. But remember, slow and steady wins the race.

• Demands consistency. Real results require you to show up for yourself regularly with healthy food choices, movement, stress relief, and sleep.

• Willpower fatigue is real. Some days will feel harder than others, and the scale doesn’t always move as quickly as we’d like. That’s why accountability and support (a coach, a workout buddy, or a group program) can be game-changing. Believe in yourself and never, ever give up!!

  
  

"I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work"

— Thomas Edison 

Takeaway Tips:

1. Managing GLP side effects — Smaller meals are key as is the avoidance of greasy or spicy foods! And a little practical advice: do NOT start or increase your dose right before a big social event, wedding, or first date unless you want to spend more time in the bathroom than on the dance floor.

2. Everyone is different! Remember, God created all of us and we are all so special and unique and that is to be cherished. What works for some just doesn't work for others so don't ever feel like something is wrong with you or that you aren't trying hard enough with any goal you set. Just find what works for you girlfriend! What makes you feel confident and what makes your heart smile is all that matters.

3. Fuel your body with hormone-friendly foods — Think colorful veggies, healthy fats, and protein-rich meals that help balance the rollercoaster of midlife hormones.

4. Get strong — Resistance training is your best friend. Strong muscles protect your metabolism and keep you feeling fierce.

5. Remember the power of protein — It helps preserve muscle, keeps you full, and stabilizes blood sugar.

6. Protect your sleep — Poor sleep equals more cravings, more stress hormones, and more belly fat. Guard your rest like it’s gold.

7. Phone a friend if needed: Some of us really benefit from an accountability buddy. Whether that person is a friend or a health and wellness professional, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Remember, this is your health and happiness you’re dealing with!

Whether you GLP or not, the real secret sauce for weight loss is finding an approach that works for you — one that keeps you healthy, happy, and confident in your own skin. Medications can be a helpful tool, but they’re not magic. YOU ARE! And remember, that however you go about your weight loss journey, continue to practice healthy habits that are enjoyable and sustainable. And guess what, POOF! Before you know it, you will find yourself soaring to magical places you never thought possible!

Shine brightly my friends!!

(FYI: Keep in mind, this is a simple pros and cons piece on this super hot topic in women's health. For more of the science behind this novel class of medications, send me an email and I will hook you up;)