9 Natural Ways to Boost Your GLP-1

Recently there has been a lot of interest in glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) medications. Especially because of their impact on managing weight and overall metabolic well-being. GLP-1 is a hormone that is naturally secreted by the intestines and plays a role in controlling hunger levels, blood sugar regulation, and the digestive process. While many are turning to medications that target GLP-1 for weight loss purposes (like semaglutide medications, often used for diabetes and obesity). There is now a growing curiosity about how to encourage the body's natural production of this hormone. Read on to discover some natural ways you can increase your GLP-1 levels.

3 types of foods that increase GLP-1

First, it’s important to understand how adequate GLP-1 secretion plays a role, in weight reduction — according to BioMed Central, it delays the process of stomach emptying to make you feel full for periods after meals. It also sends signals to the brain to decrease hunger and food consumption making it easier to cut down on calorie intake — similar to an appetite suppressant. This hormone is also responsible for enhancing insulin sensitivity and regulating blood sugar levels — ultimately leading to improved metabolic health and weight control. Knowing this, it is easy to understand why people who are diagnosed with obesity can benefit from GLP-1 medications.

While medications are appropriate for many individuals, some individuals can benefit from exploring natural approaches to boost GLP-1 levels instead of relying on medication to supplement a good diet. Some researchers believe that certain food choices can stimulate the body's production and release of GLP-1 secretion in the intestines. These researchers, as discussed in various NIH research publications, propose that incorporating these foods into your meals or snacks could naturally increase your natural GLP-1 levels. Potentially assisting you in reaching your weight goals and improving insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels without the use of GLP-1 medications. Below are some food options that might help you enhance your GLP-1 levels naturally:

1. Healthy fats, such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, avocado, olives and olive oil, and flaxseeds

2. Lean proteins, such as fish, chicken, turkey, eggs, lean beef, low-fat dairy, tofu, and soybeans

3. Foods rich in soluble fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, flaxseeds, and chia seeds

Additionally, fermented foods, nuts and seeds, green tea, and spices like cinnamon and turmeric are also thought to be beneficial in raising GPL-1 levels naturally and improving overall gut health.

6 supplements that increase GLP-1

Although dietary changes are likely to have the greatest effect, increasing GLP-1 levels through supplementation might offer another avenue for adding to your body’s own natural GLP-1 production. As with all supplements, these are offered for your information. Please check with your doctor before adding any new supplements to your routine. Here is a list of supplements that researchers from various NIH resources note you should consider:

1. Psyllium

The water-soluble fiber psyllium comes from the husks of Plantago ovata seeds, commonly used to promote digestive health and regularity. It increases GLP-1 levels, probably due to fermentation in the gut, which also leads to GLP-1 secretion.

2. Berberine

Berberine is a compound in many plants that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Clinical trials show that berberine can increase GLP-1 levels and improve insulin sensitivity, both of which might support weight management and metabolic health.

3. Yerba mate

Yerba mate is a traditional South American herbal tea. It is a stimulant like tea, coffee or cocoa. When consumed rhythmically, yerba mate reportedly reduces feelings of hunger. Yerba mate has been shown to stimulate GLP-1 secretion in some studies, lending support to the drink’s credited ability to promote weight loss.

4. Curcumin

Curcumin, the active component in turmeric, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that curcumin can boost GLP-1 levels that can aid your management of glucose and weight.

5. Ginseng

Korean red ginseng also upregulates GLP-1 secretion, and may also help by reducing your cortisol levels and your blood sugar levels. So, ginseng might also be useful if you’re trying to raise your GPL-1 naturally — in fact, ginseng tea actually has many health benefits!

6. Wild bitter gourd (Momordica charantia)

Also known as bitter melon, the wild bitter gourd plant is related to cucumbers and melons and has long been used in traditional medicine to treat diabetes. Some researchers believe it could also help regulate the secretion of the body’s own glucose and GLP-1 hormone.

Medical weight loss near me

Solv can connect you with a licensed weight loss professional who can help you with your weight loss journey. If you’re interested in the latest in GLP-1 treatments to manage your weight or consulting with a nearby weight loss provider, Solv can help you find qualified specialists in your area — visit Solv to find weight loss help near you.