Understanding GLP1 Agonists (Semaglutide)A New Class of Drug for Diabetes and Weight Loss.

I am very excited this month to present some of the exciting information presented at the recent Metabolic Health Summit I attended in Sydney back in June. There is so much incredible research being done in the field of natural, complementary and Integrated medicine fields and how vastly important it is to remember that all human knowledge on medicine both natural and medical is a synthesis of our understanding of the complexities of them human body. In effect, there is no conflict in true medicine, all medicine down to the foods we eat are affected by culture, availability, understanding and research. Your body responds to all these factors and knows not of the divisions of natural and chemical. Yet it responds as it had evolved over millions of years, to our attitude, diet, emotions and quality of the foods and medicines we ingest; this is our human challenge. To see us as a whole organism, not just a sum of its parts.

This month a quick summary of a new class of drug, the GLP1 agonists and how they can be used safely and effectively to kickstart a healthier body. As mentioned in many articles in the past, we are multitudes, that is, we are millions of organisms that are constantly in the state of flux responding daily to what we eat and drink. Think of the last time you travelled and the effects that had on your digestion.  If your microbiome (gut bacteria) is healthy you are less effected than someone who has a simple diet and thus finds new foods more challenging.

When we have for a long time consumed a low fibre, high sugar and fat diet our microbiome reflects that and our liver enzymes, pancreatic enzymes and so forth have adapted to that diet so trying to change it rapidly results in us feeling we are failures as our bodies simply are unable to cope with the change, and scream for the sugar etc we are trying to cut out. In the past we used bitter foods that regulate appetite and assist digestion, like bitter greens, digestive bitters (such as you have in a cocktail) and herbs such as gentian that turn off the hunger receptor stimulating cells. These are very effective as they also stimulate the liver into detoxifying fats and toxins that have built up affecting TAS2R cells.

These new drugs (Monjaro, Ozempic etc) work differently and affect the GLP1 receptors that effect appetite by blocking them, delaying gastric emptying so you ‘lose your appetite’. They are drastic and have a host of effects on many other organs of the body. An interesting point is they have a positive effect on the microbiome! As we stop craving fats and sugars that feed the gut bacteria, those bacteria die off, which can cause bloating and gas that can be reduced with specific probiotics.  This can give those who have struggled to kick start their weight loss a head start.

However, these drugs also effect Cardiovascular system, kidneys, immune system, liver, pancreas and brain. This is where we may find many of the well-known side effects land, and this is how natural therapies can help. By supporting the changing gut bacteria with beneficial ones; using herbs to support the liver  as it begins to convert fats to clear from the body and reduce the strain on the Gall Bladder (very important); a precise and tailored eating and supplement plan to ensure muscle wasting is reduced so you don’t end up with that classic ‘Ozempic face’ and muscle fatigue; and adequate nutrient support to ensure you don’t lose vital vitamins and minerals  necessary for good health as well as good fibre to move it all through the system.

It's vital therefore to work with a natural therapist, and Chinese Medicine is incredible for diet therapy focused weight loss and foods that work with your constitution we can indeed mindfully use the tools that can help kick start your weight loss, with or without medical assistance.

Keep an eye out for the spring edition of this space and remember you can always check out our past articles on our website and here at the Mountain Monthly Website.

Until next time stay well

Dr Angela Palmer

Kinglake Chinese Medicine