How do GLP-1 injections support weight loss and lower blood sugar?

To understand how GLP-1 medications can aid in weight loss and lower blood sugar levels, it’s
important to first understand how the body processes sugars and carbohydrates. The human body takes in calories from
different types of food: proteins, which create and repair muscle; fats, which are used for energy and stored
energy; and carbohydrates, which serve as the body’s main source of energy—including sugar. A healthy diet helps
maintain muscle through adequate protein intake while reducing sugar levels and promoting fat-burning for energy.

GLP-1 based therapies, originally developed as a treatment for type 2 diabetes, works by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1
(glucagon-like peptide-1), which helps the body increase insulin production. This increase in insulin allows the
body to burn more sugar, helping to lower blood sugar levels and reduce fat storage.

What are GLP 1 medications?

GLP-1 stands for “glucagon-like peptide-1,” a hormone that stimulates insulin production and
plays a key role in regulating blood sugar and appetite. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, it mimics
the effects of this natural hormone. It not only helps the body produce more insulin but also slows down the
digestive process. As food moves more slowly through the system, it creates a longer-lasting feeling of fullness and
satisfaction, making it easier to eat less and feel content.

GLP-1 also helps regulate appetite in the brain, which means it can reduce both the physical sensations of
hunger and the mental perception of needing to eat—helping support long-term behavior change around food.

Why do some people experience side effects with GLP-1 injections?

The effectiveness of GLP-1 based therapies—and the potential for side effects—often depends on the level
of support and guidance provided by your healthcare provider. Many people who experience side effects either weren’t
given specific instructions or chose not to follow them. At Nuviva, we strongly recommend starting with
a very small dose. This allows your body to acclimate to the medication gradually and helps reduce the likelihood of
discomfort.

Because GLP-1 medications digestion, eating large meals can overwhelm the stomach, leading to side effects such as
nausea, diarrhea, acid reflux, or stomach upset. Instead, our nutrition coaches advise clients to eat small,
frequent meals spaced throughout the day. This helps support digestion, maintain energy levels, and avoid unwanted
symptoms.

How does Nuviva help patients succeed with
GLP-1 based therapies?

At Nuviva, we pair all medications and supplements with personalized medical guidance and structured nutrition coaching.
By taking a gradual approach to dose increases and focusing on the right types of food, our clients often tolerate the medication more comfortably and achieve more consistent, healthy weight loss.

This approach can mean the difference between struggling with side effects and feeling discouraged—and experiencing
real, sustainable progress without feeling like you’re constantly on the give up. With support from our medical team
and coaches, you’ll learn how to get the most out of all weight loss medications that are medically appropriate for you while building healthier habits that last.

Who can benefit from GLP-1 based therapies?

If deemed medically appropriate by our licensed providers, people who are overweight, diabetic, or prediabetic may benefit most from GLP-1 based therapies. Over time, especially with years of excessive carbohydrate intake, the body can become less efficient at burning sugars.
This results in increased fat storage and greater health risks. Type 2 diabetes, for instance, occurs when the body
loses the ability to produce enough insulin or when cells become insulin resistant—meaning the body can no longer
process sugar effectively.

GLP-1 weight loss medications can help reverse this trend by supporting insulin production, improving blood sugar control, and
reducing appetite, all of which contribute to weight loss and better metabolic health.

How can I get started ?

Taking the first step is easy. Reach out to us for a free, no-obligation consultation, and we’ll be happy to explain how weight loss medications (when deemed medically appropriate), combined with dietary and lifestyle changes—could help transform your health and quality of life. Our team is here to support you with expert guidance
every step of the way.