Recently, interest in glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) has grown quite a bit. Over the past year, Google Trends shows a 30% increase in the phrase “what is GLP-1.” Related terms have seen similar upticks.
This new interest might be due to the increase of name-brand GLP-1 medications advertising to the general public. For instance, Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk, Ro, and Hims and Hers all took out ad spots in the 2026 Super Bowl. And NPR reported that nearly 2,000 ads for compounded GLP-1 formulations ran on Meta in April 2025 alone.
Scientists are also taking more of an interest in GLP-1 treatment. GlobalData reported that 16.4% of all GLP-1 trials were conducted in 2025.
But how does GLP-1 peptide work? We’ll answer this question in-depth, explaining how this hormone affects blood sugar, digestion, and appetite.
What’s GLP-1 peptide?
GLP-1 peptide is a hormone your body naturally produces after eating. It affects your body in multiple ways, but two of the most important are blood sugar and appetite regulation.
Blood sugar
GLP-1 peptide improves blood sugar by boosting insulin production and decreasing glucagon production.
Insulin moves glucose, often called blood sugar, out of the bloodstream and into cells, where it can be used for energy. The pancreas releases insulin after you eat, and GLP-1 peptide encourages this organ to produce more.
Glucagon raises blood sugar when it’s lower, like after working out or between meals. Excess glucagon can spike blood sugar. Short term, high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) causes issues like fatigue or brain fog. Long-term, hyperglycemia can lead to problems like pre-diabetes and diabetes, which affects nerve, kidney, heart, and brain function. To prevent this, GLP-1 peptide limits glucagon release.
Overall, the result is fewer sharp spikes and drops in blood sugar. Steadier blood sugar has several benefits, like more balanced energy levels, less cravings for carb-heavy foods, and improved concentration.
Appetite
GLP-1 peptide sends signals to the areas of the brain involved in regulating appetite. These signals reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness, influencing how much and how often you eat.
At the same time, GLP-1 peptide slows the speed at which food leaves the stomach. You’re full sooner and longer, keeping you more satisfied after a meal.
Together, these effects influence both the biological and behavioral sides of eating: how the body handles food and how the brain responds to it. That’s why GLP-1 treatment has become an important tool for weight management.
What’s GLP-1 medication, and who can benefit?
GLP-1 medications like Ozempic® and Wegovy®, also called GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), are designed to mimic the natural hormone’s effects. Often, people take GLP-1 RAs for weight loss and type 2 diabetes management. Talk to your doctor to see whether GLP-1 treatments fit into your care plan.
Are there side effects or risks from taking GLP-1 RAs?
Yes. Though not everyone experiences side effects, the most common include:
- Gastrointestinal issues, especially when starting a treatment or adjusting the dose
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Loss of appetite
- Headaches
- Upset stomach
- Acid reflux
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
If you’re considering using GLP-1 injections, ask Maven Clinic’s qualified clinicians how this medicine fits into your care plan.
What researchers are still learning about GLP-1 treatments
The FDA has approved several GLP-1 RAs to manage the following:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Weight
- Metabolic dysfunction associated with fatty liver disease
- Reduced risk of recurrent issues with coronary artery disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease
- Moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea
But the medicine may have even more benefits, which researchers are still looking into. So far, large clinical trials indicate that GLP-1-based treatments can reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death in people with type 2 diabetes. Recent research suggests these benefits may also extend to people with obesity, even without diabetes.
Because GLP-1 RAs interact with the brain pathways that relate to reward and impulse control, studies are also exploring their role in treating substance use disorders. Early findings suggest a possible reduction in alcohol and nicotine cravings.
Understanding GLP-1 treatment with guidance from Maven Clinic
At Maven Clinic, care goes beyond doctors just issuing prescriptions. Our holistic GLP-1 treatment plans also take into account your nutrition, hormonal health, and stage of life, approaching metabolic health as a system, not a single intervention.
If you’re still deciding whether GLP-1 treatment is right for you, reach out to a qualified clinician at Maven Clinic to explore more options.
FAQ
Is GLP-1 a hormone or a medication?
GLP-1 peptide is a hormone our bodies produce naturally in the gut. It helps regulate blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. GLP-1 RA medications like Trulicity® and Foundayo® mimic the effects of this hormone to support blood sugar control and help with weight management.
How quickly does GLP-1 start working in the body?
Your body releases natural GLP-1 shortly after eating, and signals reach the pancreas, brain, and digestive system within minutes. Medications that mimic GLP-1 may take longer to produce noticeable effects, with timelines depending on the individual and the treatment option.
Does GLP-1 peptide only affect blood sugar levels?
While GLP-1 peptide plays a key role in regulating blood sugar, it also influences several other processes in the body. This includes slowing digestion, promoting feelings of fullness, and signaling the brain about appetite and energy balance.
Do lifestyle habits affect natural GLP-1 levels?
Certain lifestyle factors, such as diet, physical activity, and sleep, may influence how your body releases and responds to GLP-1 peptide. Researchers continue to study how these factors interact with the body’s metabolic signals.
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