We are in the midst of a transformation in how we understand and manage weight loss. GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) and liraglutide (Saxenda/Victoza) have delivered significant success for people living with obesity and type 2 diabetes. These drugs mimic the hormone GLP-1, which regulates blood sugar, slows gastric emptying, and enhances satiety, leading to dramatic reductions in appetite and food intake (Drucker, 2021).
Here’s the reality: medications, while very helpful for weight loss and management, aren't the full solution. True metabolic health requires a holistic approach with considerations of various lifestyle changes including diet, exercise, stress management, and often overlooked, gut health. At Fitbiomics, we have developed a promising new player in this space derived from the microbiome of elite athletes: Veillonella atypica.
In this blog, we explore how the next generation of health interventions, particularly GLP-1s and microbiome support, can work synergistically to help people achieve their long-term wellness and health goals.
How Do GLP-1 Agonists Work?
GLP-1 receptor agonists are synthetic versions of the body’s natural Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 hormone. This hormone is released in the gut in response to raised glucose levels and has several key functions:
- Enhances insulin secretion
- Inhibits glucagon secretion
- Slows gastric emptying
- Promotes satiety by acting on the brain
When used therapeutically, these drugs significantly reduce appetite and help users lower caloric intake. They’re most effective when paired with lifestyle changes (Müller et al., 2019).
GLP-1 receptor agonists offer several benefits beyond weight loss, but come with potential side effects.
The Pros and Cons of GLP-1 Agonists
Key Benefits |
Common Side Effects |
|
Improved Blood Sugar Control Cardiovascular Benefits Reduced Visceral Fat Neuroprotective Effects |
Gastrointestinal Issues Loss of Muscle Mass Weight Regain After Discontinuation |
The Power of Tapping into Elite Athletes' Microbiomes
A breakthrough study found that Veillonella atypica, a bacterium found in overwhelming amounts in elite athletes, can improve endurance. How? By consuming lactate, a byproduct of fatigue, and converting it into propionate, a short-chain fatty acid that enhances energy metabolism (Scheiman et al., 2019). Proprionate is important in the weight loss journey across multiple fronts:
- Propionate = Clean Fuel: Boosts mitochondrial function, improving physical performance
- Lactate Conversion = Reduced Muscle Fatigue: Helps users sustain movement, which supports metabolic health
- Gut-Brain Signaling: Propionate interacts with appetite centers in the brain, aiding hunger regulation (van de Wouw et al., 2018)
This makes V•Nella a compelling complementary tool for GLP-1 users, who are advised to exercise regularly. With enhanced performance and energy, maintaining movement becomes more attainable, especially for those acclimating to increased physical activity.
From Rebound to Resilience
GLP-1 agonists are powerful catalysts for weight and diet management but not a long-term crutch for healthy outcomes. When paired with sustainable habits and the right gut bacteria, users can maintain weight loss and feel better overall.
By tapping into natural allies like *Veillonella atypica*, we unlock the next generation of performance-enhancing, metabolism-boosting tools. Whether you're using GLP-1s now or planning your wellness strategy for the future, don’t overlook the microbiome.
Check out our op-ed in Nutritional Outlook for a more detailed explanation of the impact the microbiome plays in supporting the weight loss journey and mitigating side effects of GLP-1 usage.
Listen to Our AI-Generated Podcast
We’ve created an AI-generated podcast that dives deeper into this topic—offering a fresh perspective on how GLP-1s are shaping the future of metabolic health, weight management, and long-term wellness. Check it out!
References
- Astrup, A., Rössner, S., Van Gaal, L., et al. (2020). Effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists on body weight in patients with obesity.Obesity Reviews, 21(1), e13089.
- Cani, P. D., & Delzenne, N. M. (2019). The role of the gut microbiota in energy metabolism and metabolic disease.Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care, 22(6), 471-477.
- Drucker, D. J. (2021). Mechanisms of action and therapeutic application of GLP-1 receptor agonists.Cell Metabolism, 33(3), 538-553.
- Hölscher, C. (2020). GLP-1 receptor agonists in Alzheimer's disease.Trends in Pharmacological Sciences, 41(4), 249-262.
- Lean, M. E., Astrup, A., & Roberts, S. B. (2018). The role of protein in weight loss and maintenance.American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 108(2), 399-407.
- Marso, S. P., Daniels, G. H., Brown-Frandsen, K., et al. (2016). Liraglutide and cardiovascular outcomes in type 2 diabetes.New England Journal of Medicine, 375(4), 311-322.
- Müller, T. D., Clemmensen, C., Finan, B., et al. (2019). The mechanisms underlying GLP-1-based therapies for obesity.Cell Metabolism, 29(4), 712-732.
- Rosenstock, J., Allison, D., Birkenfeld, A. L., et al. (2019). Effect of semaglutide on weight loss.Diabetes Care, 42(10), 1903-1911.
- Scheiman, J., Luber, J. M., Chavkin, T. A., et al. (2019). Meta-organismal interactions between human host and microbiome in elite athletes.Nature Medicine, 25(7), 1104-1109.
- Spiegel, K., Leproult, R., & Van Cauter, E. (2019). Impact of sleep debt on metabolic and endocrine function.The Lancet, 354(9188), 1435-1439.
- Wadden, T. A., Tronieri, J. S., & Butryn, M. L. (2019). Lifestyle modification for obesity: New developments in diet, physical activity, and behavior therapy.Circulation, 139(11), 180-196.