Review of how GLP-1 Shots Help You Lose Weight
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a hormone produced in the intestine that plays a central role in glucose metabolism, appetite regulation, and energy balance. GLP-1 receptor agonists, medications that mimic this hormone, have revolutionized the management of type 2 diabetes and obesity. By enhancing insulin secretion, reducing appetite, and slowing gastric emptying, they help patients achieve significant and sustained weight loss.
GLP-1 is secreted by intestinal L cells in response to nutrient intake. Once released, it stimulates insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner, suppresses glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, and acts on appetite centers in the brain to reduce hunger and cravings. Together, these effects promote improved glycemic control and meaningful weight reduction.
Unfortunately, Some will Stall in Weight Loss even on shots
However, many patients experience a weight loss plateau after an initial period of success. This is a normal physiological response rather than treatment failure. As the body loses weight, energy requirements decline and metabolic adaptation occurs. GLP-1 therapy primarily works by reducing caloric intake—often by 16% to 39%—so as calorie intake stabilizes at a lower level, further weight loss may slow or stop. In addition, reduced food intake can lead to lower nutrient consumption, potentially causing fatigue, decreased activity, and subtle metabolic slowing.
Patients with obesity frequently have baseline nutrient deficiencies, especially vitamin D, magnesium, and iron. When GLP-1 therapy further reduces total food intake, these deficiencies can worsen. Vitamin D deficiency is particularly common and can contribute to fatigue, mood changes, and reduced metabolic efficiency—all of which may mimic or exacerbate a plateau. Addressing nutritional adequacy can therefore help maintain progress.
Strategies to Overcome Weight Loss Plateaus During GLP-1 Therapy
- Reassess total calorie intake – Track intake for one week. Many patients gradually increase calories as appetite suppression fades. Your calorie intake may have slipped higher.
- Assess muscle mass, we use SECA analysis.
- Ensure adequate protein – Target at least 1.0–1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight to preserve lean muscle mass and support metabolism. Creatinine and collage may help as well.
- Add resistance or strength training – Building muscle improves resting energy expenditure and enhances body composition.
- Address nutritional deficiencies – Supplement vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, and iron as clinically indicated. Replete deficiencies that limit energy and performance. We can offer some blood testing.
- Evaluate medication adherence and dosing schedule – Missed doses or delayed injections can reduce appetite control and efficacy.
- Optimize hydration – Mild dehydration can be misinterpreted as hunger and may impair metabolism.
- Prioritize sleep – Inadequate sleep raises cortisol and ghrelin, hormones that increase appetite and reduce fat oxidation.
- Reintroduce moderate activity – Incorporating low-impact cardiovascular activity, like brisk walking or cycling, enhances fat mobilization.
- Check hormone status, particularly testosterone. We use BioTE pellet therapy.
- Consider adjunctive diet medications,
- Review thyroid and metabolic labs – Hypothyroidism or insulin resistance can blunt weight loss despite therapy.
- Adjust goals and expectations – Weight loss often proceeds in phases. A plateau may represent a new metabolic set point before further loss resumes
For many individuals, the key is patience and consistency.
GLP-1 receptor agonists continue to support appetite regulation and metabolic benefits even during a plateau period. The focus should shift toward maintaining lean mass, ensuring adequate nutrition, and reinforcing lifestyle habits that sustain long-term success.
As seen on Tik Tok posts, recent research suggests that micronutrient supplementation, especially with vitamin D, can help correct deficiencies that may contribute to fatigue and slower metabolic rates. If normal vitamin D levels, there is no evidence that adding it will kick start weight loss. There is no strong evidence vitamin K2 directly influences weight loss, maintaining balanced nutrient intake supports overall well-being and helps prevent the metabolic slowdown that can accompany extreme caloric restriction.
Weight loss plateaus are part of the physiological adaptation to reduced energy intake. By combining GLP-1 therapy with personalized nutrition, strength-based exercise, micronutrient monitoring, and behavioral support, most patients can move past plateaus and maintain healthy, sustainable weight reduction.
References:
- Mozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional Priorities to Support GLP-1 Therapy for Obesity. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.
- Gudzune KA, Kushner RF. Medications for Obesity: A Review. JAMA. 2024;332(7):571-584.
- Drucker DJ. GLP-1-based Therapies for Diabetes, Obesity and Beyond. Nat Rev Drug Discov. 2025.
- Nauck MA, Meier JJ. Incretin Hormones: Their Role in Health and Disease. Diabetes Obes Metab. 2018;20 Suppl 1:5-21.
- Kumar N, D’Alessio DA. Slow and Steady Wins the Race: 25 Years Developing the GLP-1 Receptor as an Effective Target for Weight Loss. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2022;107(8):2148-2153.
