Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) medications have been receiving a lot of attention in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, obesity, and obesity-related conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, there are some natural strategies to increase GLP-1 and support health goals. Keep reading to learn about how to increase GLP-1 naturally.
Natural GLP-1 supplements
While GLP-1 is produced by your body naturally, there are also several natural products that can help increase its production and secretion.
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1. Berberine
Taking berberine supplements has been found to significantly increase the production and secretion of GLP-1 in the body. One animal study showed that it also increased insulin secretion and enhanced glucose tolerance in mice with obesity. This suggests that berberine could be a good solution for how to increase GLP-1 naturally as well as a possible adjunct therapy for those taking GLP-1 medication to aid with obesity and maintaining a healthy body weight. (19)
A comprehensive review of articles studying the anti-diabetic properties of GLP-1 induced by berberine found that in addition to its role in insulin secretion, berberine-induced GLP-1 also prevented mitochondrial damage and reduced both adipose tissue fat and oxidative stress. As a result, berberine may be a promising additional treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus. (1)
2. Probiotics
Probiotics are known for their role in improving gut health, but they have also been found to increase GLP-1 levels in the body. (11) Through glucose-induced GLP-1 secretion, they have been shown to enhance insulin secretion, making them a potential adjunct therapy to GLP-1 medication in treating type 2 diabetes. (18)
Specifically, Akkermansia municiphila is a gut microbe that has recently been discovered to secrete a newly identified protein named P9, and this protein stimulates GLP-1 production and secretion. A. municiphila, which can be taken as a probiotic supplement, may be a good solution for how to increase GLP-1 naturally. (20)
3. Psyllium
Psyllium, a soluble dietary fiber, is fermented in the gut to produce short-chain fatty acids which stimulate gastrointestinal motility and the release of GLP-1. (6) While more research is needed, psyllium supplements may be helpful in increasing GLP-1.
4. Curcumin
Several animal studies have found curcumin effective in enhancing L-cell numbers in the body, promoting and increasing GLP-1 secretion. While more human studies are needed, this suggests that curcumin may be effective in the treatment and prevention of diabetes and obesity-related metabolic disorders. (7)(17)
A clinical review also found that curcumin was an effective inhibitor of dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV), an enzyme that degrades GLP-1. By blocking this enzyme, curcumin may prolong gastric emptying, increase insulin sensitivity, and reduce the blood glucose effects of GLP-1. (12)
5. Ginseng
Ginsenosides, the major bioactive constituents of ginseng, have been shown to stimulate the secretion of GLP-1, providing possible anti-diabetic effects as a result. (8)(9)
Diet and lifestyle considerations
In addition to taking GLP-1 supplements, making certain diet and lifestyle changes has also been found helpful in naturally increasing GLP-1 levels. Specifically, eating more protein-rich foods, avoiding saturated fatty acids, and eating slowly and chewing more may have a positive impact on GLP-1 secretion and insulin levels. As a cooking alternative, olive oil has been found to induce GLP-1 response better than butter. (5)
The bottom line
If you or your patients are struggling with type 2 diabetes, obesity, PCOS, or other related conditions, there are several natural GLP-1 supplements you can take or recommend to help increase the body’s GLP-1 secretion. If you’re a patient, always check with your healthcare provider to find the right option for your treatment plan.
If you’re a practitioner looking to recommend supplements to support natural GLP-1 production, create a free Fullscript account today.
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