{"id":19089,"date":"2019-12-04T06:49:52","date_gmt":"2019-12-04T14:49:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/selfhacked.com\/?p=19089"},"modified":"2020-09-01T05:36:22","modified_gmt":"2020-09-01T12:36:22","slug":"glp-1-a-hormone-that-causes-weight-loss-and-good-cognitive-effects","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/selfhacked.com\/blog\/glp-1-a-hormone-that-causes-weight-loss-and-good-cognitive-effects\/","title":{"rendered":"What is GLP-1 & Does it Affect Weight & Cognition?"},"content":{"rendered":"

<\/a>Scientists think that glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) helps the body release insulin and keep blood sugar in check. Discover the science behind this hormone and whether certain natural factors can increase it.<\/p>\n

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Disclaimer:<\/em><\/strong> The aim of this post is to describe the scientific findings related to GLP-1. It includes some information about the clinical use of GLP-1 agonists as anti-diabetic medications. Please discuss your medications and symptoms with your doctor. <\/em><\/p>\n

<\/a>What is GLP-1?<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

<\/a>Definition<\/span><\/h3>\n

Researchers describe Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) as both a neuropeptide<\/em> and an incretin<\/em> [R<\/a>].<\/p>\n

A neuropeptide is a peptide compound that has an effect on the nervous system. An incretin is a metabolic hormone that reduces glucose<\/a> levels in the blood after meals.<\/p>\n

<\/a>Limitations<\/span><\/h3>\n

Note that GLP-1 is not the only hormone that affects blood sugar regulation and insulin production.<\/p>\n

Many other important enzymes like DPP-4, hormones – such as glucagon, growth hormone, epinephrine, cortisol, sex hormones, and thyroid hormones – and other pathways also impact blood sugar and insulin balance.<\/p>\n

Plus, blood sugar control can involve many other possible factors – including blood chemistry, environment, health status, and genetics – that may vary from one person to another.<\/p>\n

<\/a>GLP-1 Agonists<\/span><\/h3>\n

GLP-1 has received widespread scientific attention due to its involvement in insulin and blood sugar control. That\u2019s how a new class of medications was born, which are called GLP-1 agonists. These medications are typically given as injections (with the exception of semaglutide) [R<\/a>].<\/p>\n

Doctors may prescribe GLP-1 agonists to people with type 2 diabetes who have poor blood sugar control and are taking anti-diabetic therapy by mouth.<\/p>\n

Approved GLP-1 agonists include:<\/p>\n