How Do GLP-1 Agonists Work?

GLP-1 agonists (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) have become increasingly popular in the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Medications like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) mimic the effects of the natural hormone GLP-1, which is released in response to food intake.

GLP-1 slows gastric emptying (how quickly food leaves the stomach), increases feelings of fullness, and enhances insulin secretion while suppressing glucagon release. Together, these actions help lower blood glucose levels and reduce appetite—making it easier for individuals to consume fewer calories without constant hunger.

But while the appetite suppression can be powerful, the medication doesn’t rewire long-term habits or mindset around food. Many people lose weight on GLP-1 agonists, but without a structured plan for behaviour change, education, and nutrition, that weight is often regained when the medication stops.

That’s where coaching can play a vital role. Learning how to eat for energy, performance, and satiety—even when hunger is muted—is key. Likewise, supporting muscle retention through resistance training and protein intake is crucial, as rapid weight loss can lead to muscle loss if not properly managed.

GLP-1s are a tool, not a cure. They can create space for transformation, but lasting change requires structure, knowledge, and support. If you're using or planning to stop GLP-1 medications, working with a coach who understands both the science and the psychology can be the difference between relapse and resilience.