Episodes

  • FAQs About Tirzepatide

    FAQs About Tirzepatide
    Sep 26 2024
    Curious about how tirzepatide can help with weight loss? From understanding how it works to managing potential side effects, many have questions about this medication. In this podcast, we’ll discuss the top questions to give you a clearer picture of how tirzepatide might fit into your weight loss journey. How does tirzepatide work for weight loss?Tirzepatide, marketed as Zepbound, mimics the action of GLP-1 and GIP, two hormones naturally released by your gut. These hormones are critical in regulating appetite and how much food you consume. By enhancing the feeling of fullness and reducing hunger, tirzepatide helps support weight loss. Specifically, it has the following effects: Slows stomach emptying, helping you feel full longer after meals. Decreases appetite, leading to reduced food intake. Reduces food cravings. Stimulates the pancreas to release more insulin, which lowers blood sugar levels. Reduces the liver’s new glucose production, further improving blood sugar control. These combined effects make tirzepatide a powerful tool for weight management and improving metabolic health. 1. How long does it take for tirzepatide to work? In clinical trials, people typically began to notice weight loss around 4 weeks after starting tirzepatide. This is when the medication reaches stable levels in the body. The trial lasted for 72 weeks, and the participants continued to lose weight throughout the study. However, the most significant results were observed during the first 8 to 9 months of treatment. 2. How much weight do people lose with tirzepatide? Tirzepatide is one of the most effective weight-loss treatments available. In clinical trials, people lost, on average, between 15% and 21% of their starting body weight after 72 weeks of treatment. Additionally, longer treatment with tirzepatide tends to lead to more significant weight loss. People in two different studies lost an average of 25% of their starting body weight when using tirzepatide for an extended period. 3. What’s the typical tirzepatide dosage for weight loss? The initial tirzepatide dosage is 2.5 mg once a week for the first 4 weeks. After that, the dose is increased to 5 mg weekly. Most people remain on the 5 mg dose for the long term. If necessary, the dose can be gradually increased. But the increases should be by no more than 2.5 mg at a time, and there should be at least 4 weeks in between each one. The maximum tirzepatide dose is 15mg weekly. 4. How long does tirzepatide stay in your system? Tirzepatide has a half-life of about 5 days, meaning that it takes this amount of time for your body to eliminate half of the medication. This helps determine when a medication starts wearing off and influences its dosing schedule. Since Tirzepatide’s half-life is 5 days, it only needs to be injected once weekly. On the other hand, a longer half-life means it takes more time for your body to fully eliminate a medication. In the case of tirzepatide, small amounts of the medication may remain in your system for up to 25 days after a dose. 5. How long do you need to take tirzepatide? The duration of tirzepatide treatment depends on your health and weight loss goals. It’s best to work with your healthcare provider to determine a timeline that suits your needs. Keep in mind that tirzepatide is designed for long-term use. Still, it may only be needed temporarily if you're able to adopt and sustain certain lifestyle changes after discontinuing the medication . Research shows that maintaining weight loss with tirzepatide is achievable with continued use. At the end of clinical trials, nearly 90% of participants maintained at least 80% of the weight they lost during the first 8 to 9 months. If you plan to stop taking tirzepatide, it’s important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a strategy to help maintain your weight loss. They can help create a plan to continue important lifestyle changes such as proper nutrition, regular physical activity, stress management, and quality sleep. 6. Can you change your tirzepatide injection day? Yes, you can adjust your tirzepatide injection day if needed (e.g., illness, vacation, side effects), but there are specific guidelines to follow. When switching injection days, make sure there’s at least a 3-day (72-hour) gap between two doses. For instance, if you typically inject on Saturdays, you could move it to Tuesday (or another later day in the same week). It's important to consult your healthcare provider before making this change. They can give you a safe and appropriate schedule based on your circumstances. 7. Can you switch from semaglutide to tirzepatide? Yes, you can switch from semaglutide to tirzepatide if you need additional support with weight management. Based on your current semaglutide dosage and any side effects you're experiencing, your healthcare provider may begin you on a lower dose of tirzepatide. This approach allows your body to adjust to tirzepatide ...
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    9 mins
  • SS-31

    SS-31
    Sep 19 2024
    What is SS-31? Ela-mep-ra-tide SS-31, also known as Elamipretide, is a synthetic peptide that has gained attention in the scientific and medical communities for its potential role in treating various age-related and degenerative diseases. It is a small, mitochondria-targeting peptide specifically designed to protect and improve the function of mitochondria, the energy-producing "powerhouses" of our cells. Since mitochondrial dysfunction is linked to many chronic illnesses and the aging process, SS-31 has sparked interest in its potential to restore cellular energy and combat diseases at the cellular level. In this podcast, we’ll discuss how SS-31 works and its potential benefits. How Does SS-31 Work? Mitochondria are essential for producing energy in cells through a process known as oxidative phosphorylation. During this process, mitochondria generate ATP, the primary energy source for most cellular functions. However, as we age or develop certain diseases, mitochondria can become less efficient, leading to oxidative stress and damage to cellular structures. This damage can result in various health issues, from muscle weakness to neurodegenerative diseases. SS-31 directly interacts with cardiolipin, a key phospholipid in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Cardiolipin plays an essential role in maintaining mitochondrial structure and function. When mitochondria are stressed or damaged, cardiolipin can become dysfunctional. SS-31 binds to cardiolipin and helps stabilize it, protecting mitochondria from further damage. This stabilization improves mitochondrial efficiency, reduces oxidative stress, and enhances energy production. Additionally, SS-31 helps reduce the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), harmful molecules that can contribute to inflammation and cellular damage. By reducing oxidative stress, SS-31 may help prevent further damage to tissues and cells, slowing the progression of disease and the aging process. Potential Benefits of SS-31 Research on SS-31 is still in the early stages, but some potential benefits of this peptide have been identified, particularly in the context of mitochondrial health and age-related diseases. 1. Improved Muscle Function SS-31 has been shown to enhance muscle function, particularly in older adults or those with muscle-related diseases. By improving mitochondrial efficiency, SS-31 may help increase muscle strength and endurance, potentially benefiting conditions like sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss) and muscular dystrophies. 2. Neuroprotection Since mitochondrial dysfunction is linked to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, SS-31’s ability to stabilize mitochondria may offer neuroprotective effects. Early research suggests that SS-31 may help protect brain cells from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation, which could slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. 3. Cardiovascular Health SS-31 may also have potential benefits for heart health. By protecting mitochondria in cardiac cells, SS-31 could help prevent damage to the heart and improve its function. Some studies have explored its role in treating conditions like heart failure and ischemia-reperfusion injury, where mitochondrial dysfunction plays a significant role. 4. Anti-Aging Properties Because mitochondrial damage is closely associated with aging, SS-31 may have anti-aging benefits. By improving mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative stress, SS-31 could help slow the aging process at the cellular level, promoting healthier aging and potentially extending lifespan. 5. Treatment of Metabolic Disorders There is growing interest in SS-31’s potential to treat metabolic disorders such as diabetes. Mitochondrial dysfunction is linked to insulin resistance, and improving mitochondrial function with SS-31 could enhance glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. 6. Increased energy levels SS-31 peptide boosts energy by targeting and protecting mitochondria, the "powerhouses" of your cells. Mitochondria generate ATP, the main energy source for cellular functions. As we age or experience stress, mitochondrial efficiency declines, leading to fatigue and reduced cellular energy. SS-31 works by stabilizing the mitochondria, preventing oxidative damage, and improving ATP production. This results in increased cellular efficiency, allowing you to feel more energized. It's like upgrading an old car engine—it runs smoother, more efficiently, and with less strain, giving you more stamina throughout the day. What to listen to next: To learn more about how other peptides can help with neurodegenerative diseases, listen to our podcast discussing the potential use of GLP-1 agonists in Alzheimer’s disease and how they work or DIHEXA and cognitive health. To learn more about how other peptides can help heart health, listen to our podcast about GLP-1 agonists in the context of post-MI management. Thanks again for listening to The Peptide Podcast. We love ...
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    5 mins
  • Differences Between Semaglutide and Tirzepatide

    Differences Between Semaglutide and Tirzepatide
    Sep 12 2024
    Two of the most promising treatments for obesity in recent years are semaglutide, a GLP-1 agonist, and tirzepatide, a dual GLP-1/GIP agonist. These peptides have garnered attention for their impressive efficacy in weight loss and metabolic improvement, but they differ in their mechanisms, dosing, side effects, and outcomes. In this podcast, we'll explore how these peptides compare. Semaglutide and tirzepatide work in similar but slightly different ways for weight loss Semaglutide works by mimicking glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that is naturally released by the gut in response to food. GLP-1 helps regulate appetite by increasing the feeling of fullness (satiety), slowing gastric emptying, and reducing the body's insulin resistance. It also stimulates insulin secretion, which helps control blood sugar levels, making it useful not only for weight loss but also for managing type 2 diabetes. Tirzepatide activates both GLP-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors. GIP is another hormone involved in insulin secretion, but it also plays a role in fat metabolism. By engaging both receptors, tirzepatide has a dual/additive impact: it not only boosts insulin sensitivity and appetite suppression (similar to semaglutide) but also enhances the body's ability to process fat and use it for energy — providing an added benefit for weight loss and metabolic health. Tirzepatide may result in greater weight loss compared with semaglutide Semaglutide has been shown to reduce body weight by 10-15% in most clinical trials, with some patients achieving even greater weight loss (up to 17% of total body weight). Additionally, it has proven effective in reducing blood glucose levels and improving insulin sensitivity, making it a great option for patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity. Tirzepatide has shown superior weight loss efficacy, with reductions of up to 20-25% of body weight in clinical trials. Its dual action on GLP-1 and GIP receptors may explain this enhanced efficacy. It also offers significant improvements in metabolic markers, including better glucose control and insulin sensitivity, which can especially benefit patients with obesity-related metabolic disorders (e.g., type 2 diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome) Semaglutide and tirzepatide have different doses Semaglutide is typically administered as a once-weekly injection. The dosing for weight loss starts at 0.25 mg per week and gradually increases in 4-week intervals to a maintenance dose of 2.4 mg per week. The gradual titration helps minimize side effects such as nausea. Sometimes, the semaglutide dose may be increased sooner than the 4-week interval based on the person’s response to the peptide. Tirzepatide is also administered as a once-weekly injection. The dosing for weight loss starts at 2.5 mg per week and gradually increases to a maintenance dose of 5 mg to 7.5 mg per week, with some people requiring higher doses (10 mg, 12.5 mg, or 15 mg). The dose is generally increased based on patient tolerance, similar to semaglutide but shouldn’t be increased sooner than 4 weeks. Semaglutide and tirzepatide have similar side effects Common side effects of semaglutide include: Nausea Vomiting Diarrhea Constipation Headache Tiredness These stomach-related side effects are usually temporary and go away on their own as the body adjusts to the medication. However, some people may experience more severe symptoms, necessitating a lower dose. Tirzepatide shares many of the same side effects as semaglutide, including: Nausea Vomiting Diarrhea Constipation Burping Flatulence Indigestion Keep in mind: Tirzepatide's side effects can sometimes be more pronounced, particularly during the dose-escalation phase. Some patients may also experience signs of low blood sugar, especially if used in combination with insulin. Semaglutide may be a better option if you have heart disease In March 2024, semaglutide received additional FDA approval for reducing cardiovascular risk in adults with heart disease who are overweight or obese. Clinical studies show that semaglutide reduced the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events—such as heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death—by 20%. Tirzepatide is currently being studied for similar cardiovascular benefits. Semaglutide and tirzepatide may have benefits for other health conditions Semaglutide has demonstrated positive outcomes in certain people with heart failure, and a recent study suggests potential kidney-related benefits for those with heart disease. It is also being studied as a treatment for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), also known as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, a condition caused by excess fat accumulation in the liver. Tirzepatide has shown promise for individuals with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea and may receive approval for this use by late 2024. Additionally, it is under investigation for potential benefits...
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    8 mins
  • 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