New Prescription Medication, GLP-1 Promotes Weight Loss.
You might have heard, there is a new prescription medication called GLP-1, which promote weight loss. GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone in your gut that is naturally produced after you eat. It plays a critical role in regulating your appetite, blood sugar, and digestion. Originally developed to treat Type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 medications are now also widely used (12% of US population and growing fast) and are reported to reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness. For many people, this leads to eating smaller portions and, over time, weight loss. Early evidence suggests GLP-1 may benefit people with heart disease by lowering cardiovascular risk, and they may also slow the progression of chronic kidney disease, and with arthritis or chronic joint discomfort, as even a modest drop in weight can ease discomfort and improve mobility. Also, the Alzheimer’s Association indicates there are promising, clinical trials have shown mixed results, and researchers are still investigating how GLP-1s positively impacts dementia and Alzheimer’s patients.
A Constant ‘ Food Noise’ Craving
I can understand why some people are labeling this a ‘miracle drug. I constantly hear “food noise”—the persistent, intrusive thoughts about food and as previously stated, once I start eating, it is hard for me to stop. I am not alone as this ‘food noise ‘ craving, as a lot of people we interviewed talked about this food craving, as indicated by my interview with Philippe who is pictured in my Facebook post as eating a big ice-cream Sunday. (CB post 6/13/26 in Disjoin France) A 2026 report in US News, indicates that while exact percentages vary by population and diet history, an estimated 57% of people with overweight or obesity experience hearing food noises. As it turns out “Food Noise” may be genetic. Tuffs Medicine indicates for many overeating is not a lack of willpower; rather, it is heavily influenced by a combination of genetics, biology, and the environment.
Opposing Opinions
I had a follow-up interview of my 12/11/25 Pathways to Longevity interview (See above under Make Incremental Changes), with my friend Dr. Andrew, who is professor emirates at Harvard Medical School on 6/23/26. I noticed the Dr. Andrew had lost some weight. When I asked about it, he said he was using GPL-1 medication with excellent results. This is different advice from an August 22, 2023 TdL interview with Dr. John. When I asked Dr. John about the new weight loss drugs, he said that “Apparently it works, but nobody knows how or why it works or if there are any after effects. It could be dangerous.”
Benefits and Risks
According to Mayo Clinic, all medication like GLP-1, comes with both benefits and risks, as follows: For many, the positive effects can be life-changing, with better blood sugar control, sustained weight loss and even improvements in conditions linked to obesity like diabetes heart disease and dementia. At the same time, there are important considerations to keep in mind such as high costs, potential for lifelong use, short term gastrointestinal side effects. On the Long-term, side effects are uncertain as this is a new use for GLP-1, but include a) loss of muscle mass. (Over 30% of weight loss on GPL-1 medications can be from muscle loss.) b) Reduced bone density, as sustained weight loss can accelerate bone mineral loss, raising fracture risk. c) Uncharted decades-long effects, such as potential organ-system impact. Understanding both sides will help you have an informed conversation with your healthcare provider. So, obviously consult with your doctors
For Me
For me, I seem to be stuck at 180 pounds after losing 45 pounds in 4 years, using holistic methods. It is tempting to just go the GPL-1 route, because I can’t seem to get my weight any lower. A friend of mine Alicia said, “You take Lipitor to keep your cholesterol down, don’t you? Why not take advantage of GLP-1 to lower your weight? Good question. However, I am going to stay the holistic (eat less, exercise more) course, rather than taking another medication.
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WARNING This publication contains the ‘opinions’ and ideas of its author, Carl Max Birkelbach and is intended to provide helpful and useful information material on the subjects addressed. However, it is understood by the readers that the author is not engaged in rendering medical, health or any kind of personal or professional advice or services. Further, this publication is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition and should not be relied upon for any medical purposes. The reader should always consult with competent professional services before adopting any of the suggestions or draw any conclusions based on the opinions expressed in this publication. The author hereby specifically disclaims any responsibility or liability for any loss, personal or otherwise, which is incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, because of the use or application of any of the contents of this publication. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call emergency services 911 immediately.