Curious About Semaglutide? A Balanced Guide to GLP-1s for Weight Loss

By GM | Published: August 13, 2025 | 8 min read

It’s impossible to ignore the buzz around a new class of medications for weight loss. Drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, known as GLP-1s, are changing the conversation around weight management. But with so much hype, it's hard to separate fact from fiction.

This is your balanced, no-nonsense guide to understanding GLP-1s (specifically semaglutide), how they work, and their role in a healthy lifestyle. **This is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.**

What Are GLP-1s and How Do They Work?

Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications called **glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.** That’s a mouthful, but the concept is simple: they mimic a natural hormone your body already produces.

Normally, your small intestine releases the GLP-1 hormone after you eat. This hormone tells your body to:

• Slow down digestion, making you feel full for longer.
• Signal to your brain that you are satisfied, reducing hunger.
• Help manage blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity.
• Quiet "food noise" or constant thoughts about food.

For many people, especially those with weight issues or Type 2 diabetes, this natural hormone system doesn't function optimally. GLP-1 medications essentially give this system a powerful boost.

The Different Ways to Take Semaglutide: Injections vs. Oral

When GLP-1s first arrived, they were only available as weekly injections. Now, oral options provide an alternative for those who are averse to needles.

• Injectables (e.g., Ozempic, Wegovy): These are taken once a week. Because they are injected directly, they have high "bioavailability," meaning a very high percentage of the drug enters the bloodstream and becomes active.
• Oral Tablets (e.g., Rybelsus): This is a pill you swallow daily. Because it has to pass through the harsh environment of your stomach, its bioavailability is much lower.
• Oral Drops (Sublingual): These drops are placed under the tongue daily. By absorbing through the tissues in your mouth, they bypass the digestive system, leading to higher bioavailability than tablets.

The Big Question: Is It Effective for Weight Loss?

Research shows that all forms of semaglutide can lead to weight loss, but the results vary by delivery method.

Injectables have shown the most dramatic results, with studies finding an average weight loss of nearly **15% of body weight** over 68 weeks. Oral tablets have shown more modest results, typically in the range of 5-10 pounds over several months. Research on oral drops is still emerging, but they are believed to be more effective than tablets.

Generally, oral versions may lead to slower, less dramatic results but can come with fewer side effects, making them a potential option for long-term weight management or for those looking to lose a smaller amount of weight.

Medication is a tool, not the entire strategy.

If you and your doctor decide a GLP-1 is right for you, you'll still need a solid nutrition and lifestyle plan to maximize your results. The Sustainable Shape-Up Blueprint is the perfect companion program to ensure you're building healthy habits for lasting success.

Discover the Companion Program

It's Not a Magic Bullet: The Crucial Role of Lifestyle

This is the most important takeaway: **GLP-1 medications do not work in a vacuum.** They are designed to be used *in combination with* diet and exercise. The medication helps control your appetite and "food noise," making it easier for you to stick to the healthy habits that actually drive fat loss.

To get the maximum benefit, you must put in the work:

• Dietary Changes: Focus on high-protein, fiber-rich foods to enhance the feeling of fullness. Limit processed and high-sugar foods.
• Consistent Exercise: Incorporate both strength training (to preserve muscle mass) and cardiovascular exercise (to burn calories).
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Prioritize sleep, hydration, and stress management to support your body's overall health and hormone function.

Potential Side Effects and Who Should Consider It

Like all medications, GLP-1s have potential side effects. The most common are gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. There are also more serious but rare risks to be aware of, including pancreatitis and thyroid tumors.

Deciding to take a GLP-1 is a significant medical decision that should **only be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider.** They will assess your health history, goals, and determine if you are a suitable candidate.