I’m off a GLP-1 Mediction, and here’s what happened…

Recently I have been reflecting on my experience on a GLP-1 medication now that I have been off of it for about 5 months.

-Yes I have gained weight; 14 pounds, to be exact and it is not a good feeling

-I felt better overall on the medication. My recovery was better, and my overall sense of well-being was better

-Yes, my previous appetite is back, as well as the food noise and the “hanger”

-I have more mood swings and do not feel as emotionally regulated as I did before

-The GLP-1 negatively affected my sex drive. However, this could also be due to my reduced testosterone level

-My labs aren’t the same as they were, on the medication; my liver enzymes increased but so did my HDL which is a good thing

-My HRV (heart rate variability) has improved since being off the medication

-I am lifting heavier now that I am off the medication, and have PR’d some lifts
-I am still SOBER; no alcohol since February 2023.

While on a GLP-1 medication, I was able to quit drinking. For me, this was by far the best health benefit. Nevermind the weight-loss, but quitting this toxic substance, and feeling confident about it, has been life-changing. I am thankful that this habit stuck, and while I miss the loss of a ravaging appetite, it is not nearly the same as when I would drink alcohol. Alcohol was a fuel to eat more, experience hangxiety and sadness that would drive me to make poor nutritional choices. Even though my diet is far from perfect, I have omitted a source of empty calories that led me to reach for more empty calories.

This peptide is a tool that many people are using (and misusing) to lose weight, but also control diabetes, protect their cardiovascular health and avoid the long-lasting effects on their health that chronic disease can cause. But making an effort to improve my health without the help of a peptide is proving to be a challenge. I am just being honest. It was effortless, and the obsession over food, and “when and what will I eat” feeling was gone. It was one less thing I had to stress about. It wasn’t about laziness, it was about eating to fuel myself has been replaced by “what can I eat”. I do know that there are people who put down using this medication because of the misuse and misdirected care running rampant in our society. Not many are given a nutrition and exercise plan, after being started on this medication, and many women lose the weight and sacrifice strength and muscle, for being thin. Our society is far too obsessed with being tiny, and not being healthy and strong as they age. Thinness does not equal health.

With all this being said, as a medical provider, weightlifter, and regular exerciser, I know that I still need a coach desperately. Losing weight, and keeping it off is some of the most difficult work. Only someone who knows what it feels like to struggle with their weight truly understands. It’s not like body dysmorphia, it’s waking up being consumed with the idea of food, and eating. Sometimes feeling like no matter what you eat, it is not the right thing. It is not like binging, it is like no end to the hunger. The GLP-1 medication was my solution to this and I am having to relive what I spent the last year undoing. If you are reading this, and you are trying to lose weight, I urge you to consult with both a nutrition coach and a medical professional that understands health and longevity. Not just a quick-fix approach, but find individuals who understand food, nutrients, hormones, aging, exercise and muscle-building. And if you are currently thinking about going off a GLP-1 medication, I highly recommend a backup plan. I did not really have one, and thought my problems had been solved. I have tried tracking, but it is SO much different now that I snack frequently due to the increased appetite. I truly understand and know it has nothing to do with a lack of willpower. It is something that is almost automatic and occurs subconsciously. But the best part about reflecting is that I can seek a solution and not settle for just living through a big appetite. I can find professionals to use this to my advantage, coach me, and guide me to a better me.