GLP-1 Agonists (Ozempic/Semaglutide) for Longevity and Anti-Aging: 2026 Update

By

Drugs like Ozempic (semaglutide for diabetes), Wegovy (higher-dose semaglutide for weight loss), Mounjaro (tirzepatide for diabetes), and Zepbound (tirzepatide for weight loss) mimic the gut hormone GLP-1, promoting fullness, slowing digestion, and enhancing insulin sensitivity.

In 2025, these therapies have solidified their role not just in obesity management but also in cardiovascular and kidney protection, with the World Health Organization issuing global guidelines endorsing their use for obesity as a chronic disease.

Ozempic vs Wegovy vs Rybelsus
Credit: GoodRx Health

Key Benefits in 2025

GLP-1 agonists continue to outperform expectations:
  • Significant Weight Loss: Clinical trials show 15-21% average body weight reduction over 68-72 weeks (e.g., Wegovy ~15%, Zepbound ~21%). Dual agonists like tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) often edge out single GLP-1 agents like semaglutide.
  • Blood Sugar Control: Superior glycemic management for type 2 diabetes, reducing HbA1c by up to 2.4%.
  • Cardiovascular Protection: Robust reductions in major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), including heart attack and stroke—benefits seen in both diabetic and non-diabetic patients with obesity.
  • Additional Perks: Emerging data highlight reductions in kidney complications, liver fat (for MASH), sleep apnea, and even early mortality risk in high-risk groups.
New in 2025: Oral formulations are advancing rapidly. Higher-dose oral semaglutide (up to 25-50mg) shows promise for weight loss comparable to injectables, while orforglipron (Eli Lilly's oral small-molecule GLP-1) delivered ~12-14% weight loss in phase 3 trials. Next-gen options like retatrutide (triple agonist) and amycretin are in late trials, potentially offering even greater efficacy.

Common Side Effects and Risks

While highly effective, GLP-1s aren't without drawbacks—most are gastrointestinal and dose-dependent:
  • Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Constipation: Affect up to 50% initially but often improve over time.
  • Muscle Loss: A notable "hidden catch" highlighted in 2025 Cochrane reviews—rapid weight loss can lead to sarcopenia (muscle wasting), reducing strength and energy. Mitigation: Pair with resistance training and high-protein diets.
  • Gastroparesis (Stomach Paralysis): Rare but serious; slowing digestion can worsen in predisposed individuals.
  • Thyroid Concerns: Boxed warning for potential thyroid C-cell tumors (based on rodent studies); human risk appears low per ongoing monitoring.
Start low and go slow to minimize issues. Long-term safety data (now over 10+ years for some agents) remains reassuring, but monitoring is key.

Natural Alternatives to Boost GLP-1 Production

For those seeking non-pharma options or complements to lifestyle changes, evidence supports natural ways to enhance endogenous GLP-1 secretion. These are milder (typically 2-5% weight loss vs. 15-20% from drugs) but safer and sustainable:
  • Berberine: Top evidence-based "nature's Ozempic"—activates AMPK pathways, improves insulin sensitivity, and indirectly boosts GLP-1. Dose: 1g/day; studies show modest weight loss and better glucose control.
  • High Soluble Fiber: Psyllium, inulin, oats—ferments into SCFAs that stimulate GLP-1 release. Aim for 25-30g fiber daily from foods like broccoli, apples, beans.
  • Curcumin (Turmeric): Anti-inflammatory; supports gut health and GLP-1 pathways. Best with black pepper for absorption.
  • Probiotics & Prebiotics: Strains supporting gut microbiome diversity (e.g., Akkermansia) enhance GLP-1.
  • Other Boosters: Green tea (EGCG), protein-rich meals, healthy fats (avocados, nuts), and stress/sleep management all promote natural GLP-1.
Combine with exercise (resistance + cardio) for synergy—preserving muscle while amplifying benefits.
At OneDayMD.com, we emphasize personalized, evidence-informed approaches: GLP-1 meds for those needing aggressive intervention, natural boosters for prevention/maintenance. Consult a provider before starting any regimen, especially if combining therapies.

Related: Are GLP-1s the first longevity drugs? (Nature 2025)

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Obstetricians and Gynecologists | O & G | in Johor (2020 edition)

By
Image
Gynaecology or gynecology is the medical practice dealing with the health of the female reproductive systems (vagina, uterus and ovaries), breasts and pregnancy related management. Literally, outside medicine, it means "the science of women". Almost all modern gynaecologists are also obstetricians and therefore the term obstetricians & gynecologists or O&G or OBGYN in short. In many areas, the specialties of gynaecology and obstetrics overlap. What's the difference between obstetricians and gynaecologists? Most gynaes are qualified with a post-graduate qualification in O&G i.e. MRCOG or Master of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Therefore, they are trained both in obstetrics as well as gynaecology. An obstetrician specialises in pregnancy related aspects of women's health whereas a gynae specialised in the 'non-pregnancy' related aspects. Next, you may also need to understand that there are 4 primary subspecialties in ob/gyn: 1) maternal fetal ...
Read more

18 Best Supplements to Reduce Cytokine Storm: Advanced Guide

By
Image
As of May 2024, there are more than 4,000 early treatment studies  that have been published and shared with the whole world. New ones are being added every day.  This is a review of the literature, covering multiple observational studies, randomized controlled trials and references related to natural supplements and cytokine storm with more than 300 studies and references. We know that while a large percentage of the population only experiences mild to moderate symptoms of COVID-19 and won’t require hospitalization, others experience severe symptoms and complications, require hospitalization, or may even die.  It appears one of the differences between those who have a mild illness and severe illness is related to the body's ability to reduce the hyperimmune response that leads to a cytokine storm and the hyper-coagulability (tendency for blood clots) that often accompanies it. The cytokine storm may be one possible way to ex...
Read more

16 Best Vitamin D3 Supplements of 2025

By
Image
A. Introduction Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, which means it dissolves in fats and oils and can be stored in your body’s fatty tissues and liver for extended periods.  Unlike other vitamins, vitamin D acts like a hormone, binding to receptors in nearly every cell. This explains its widespread impact on health. Scientists continue to uncover its wide-ranging effects, with  over 100,000 studies on PubMed since 1964 exploring its benefits . Vitamin D is essential for.. ✅ Calcium absorption – Critical for strong bones and teeth ✅ Muscle function – Helps prevent weakness and cramps ✅ Nerve signaling – Supports brain-body communication ✅ Immune defense – Fights infections and reduces inflammation ✅ Hormone regulation – Influences mood, metabolism, and more B. What is Vitamin D Good For? by labdoor.com 1. Bone Health Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption and bone metabolism. It's essential for the prevention of conditions like osteoporosis and osteomalacia, co...
Read more

8 Best Quercetin with Bromelain Supplements and Reviews of 2025

By
Image
Quercetin is found in an array of fruits, vegetables, and grains. This powerful flavonoid is a potent antioxidant that helps your body ward off harmful free radicals that can lead to chronic diseases. But that's not all - quercetin also boasts impressive anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate allergy symptoms, reduce inflammation, and even lower blood pressure. With so many incredible health benefits, it's clear that quercetin is a must-have nutrient for anyone looking to support their overall health and wellbeing. As the health benefits of the supplement become more widely known, the market has grown rapidly. The global quercetin market size was USD 1.4 Billion in 2023 and is likely to reach USD 4.2 Billion by 2032, expanding at a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 12.4% during 2024–2032. ( source ) There are many quercetin supplement brands available out there. Which one should you buy? Why do we provide so many options below? You may have your own ...
Read more

Cilantro and Chlorella for Heavy Metal Detox 2025

By
Image
Cilantro and Chlorella have been shown to be beneficial to human health in numerous research. Cilantro is a herb made from the fresh leaves of the coriander plant (Coriandrum sativum), while Chlorella is a single-celled green algae. What Vitamins Are in Cilantro? Cilantro includes vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, potassium, and manganese in its leaves. What Vitamins Are in Chlorella? Chlorella products contain large amount of good quality protein, dietary fibers, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as α-linolenic and linoleic acids. Chlorella products, in particular, contain vitamins D2 and B12, which are not found in plant-based diets, as well as higher levels of folate and iron than other plant-based foods. Cilantro and Chlorella Benefits Cilantro and Chlorella for Heavy Metal Detox Toxic metals like arsenic, lead, and mercury, are all around us. They’re in the ground we walk on, in the water we drink, and in the products we use every day. But high levels of most heavy meta...
Read more

I-LONGEVITY Protocol: Anti Aging Guide to Help People Prevent and Reverse Aging (2025)

By
Image
Can diet, lifestyle and anti aging supplements reverse your age? This comprehensive guide examines the latest, scientifically-backed anti-aging supplements and methods, drawing on over 1,000 references and studies. By exploring both the biological hallmarks of aging and the most promising interventions, this article aims to provide readers with practical, evidence-based insights into how to support healthy aging and potentially extend lifespan. However, search engine results for "anti-aging" are largely dominated by skin care products and beauty guides. In reality, anti-aging science goes far beyond skin deep.  Conventional medicine focuses on treating the symptoms of injury, illness or disease. This passive system of treatment can extend lifespan but does not proactively improve health, leaving millions of people with a poor quality of life in their later years and the associated economic challenges they face.A proactive...
Read more

12 Best Heavy Metal Detox Supplements of 2025

By
Image
Detoxifying the body from heavy metals can be an important step in maintaining overall health and wellness. Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and cadmium can accumulate in the body over time and can have negative effects on the brain, heart, kidneys, and other organs. Some people may be at higher risk of exposure to heavy metals due to their occupation or lifestyle. One way to detoxify the body from heavy metals is through the use of supplements. These supplements can come in various forms such as capsules, tablets, or powders and contain ingredients like chelating agents, antioxidants and natural herbs that work together to remove heavy metals from the body. These supplements are not a substitute for a healthy diet and should be used in conjunction with other healthy lifestyle choices. It's important to note that the effectiveness of heavy metal detox supplements can vary and it's always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider or a qualified practitioner before tak...
Read more

Zinc Gluconate vs Zinc Picolinate: What's the Difference?

By
Image
Zinc picolinate and zinc gluconate are forms of dietary supplements that we use to prevent zinc deficiency.  Zinc  is an essential mineral that our body can easily absorb. Therefore, if we do not get enough amount of zinc, we may have to take these dietary supplements as directed by the doctor. When choosing a zinc supplement, it’s important to consider the type of zinc, dosage, and supplement form. Types of Zinc Supplements   There are several types of zinc supplements. Supplements contain several forms of zinc, including zinc gluconate, zinc citrate and zinc picolinate. The percentage of elemental zinc varies by form.  Chelated zinc is a general form of supplementary zinc in which the zinc is chelated — or bound — to a compound to make it easier for the body to absorb. Zinc picolinate or zinc gluconate are formed when zinc is chelated to picolinic acid or glucon...
Read more

9 Best Organic Vitamin D3 Supplements 2025

By Dr Frank Yap, MD
Image
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is essential for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation.  However, not all supplements are created equal—many contain synthetic additives or low-quality ingredients.  If you're looking for a clean, organic, and highly absorbable vitamin D3 supplement, this guide will help you choose the best one. Why Choose Organic Vitamin D3? Conventional vitamin D3 supplements are often derived from lanolin (sheep’s wool) and may contain unwanted additives. Organic vitamin D3 offers: - Cleaner sourcing (lichen-derived for vegans, organic alcohol-free liquid forms) - Better absorption (paired with organic oils like coconut or olive oil) - No artificial fillers (non-GMO, gluten-free, and free from synthetic additives) How to Choose the Best Organic Vitamin D3 Supplement When shopping, consider.. - Source: Lichen-derived (vegan) or organic lanolin (for non-vegans). - Form: Liquid or softgels with organic oils for better absorption. - Dosage: 1,000–5,000 I...
Read more

Dr. Zelenko's Z-Stack Vitamin Cocktail: Review 2024

By
Image
The  Zelenko COVID-19 Protocols  was developed by Dr Vladimir Zelenko. The protocol has as its centerpiece, but not exclusive piece, the combined use of Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and Zinc as a means by which a person can both help to prevent or mitigate the contraction of  COVID-19 , or can actually treat the disease once it has been diagnosed.  A  retrospective study  analyzing Dr Zelenko's patient data was accepted for publication after a rigorous peer review process. The study finds that early intervention and treatment of high-risk patients with COVID-19 resulted in significantly fewer hospitalizations and deaths. The treatment consisting of zinc, low-dose hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), and azithromycin, is also referred to as "The Zelenko Protocol." Dr Zelenko has since updated his protocols to incorporate new evidence. He has since evolved his protocols to include a quercetin, zinc, vitamin D and C protocol for low-ris...
Read more