Better, lasting results with GLP-1s

No, GLP-1s are not new. In fact, the FDA approved the first GLP-1 for type 2 diabetes back in 2005 and this class of medications has proven to be effective at managing blood sugar since then. In recent years, the effectiveness of GLP-1s at treating obesity has led to a new era of robust GLP-1 development and a rapidly expanding market. Today, one in eight U.S. adults has tried a GLP-1 medication.

Yes, there are different GLP-1 receptor agonists, also known as GLP-1s. These medications are used primarily for the management of type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, for weight management. Each GLP-1 medication may differ in terms of dosage, administration frequency, and specific usage indications. Some GLP-1 medications have more name recognition than others, but examples include Wegovy®, Saxenda®, Ozempic® and Mounjaro®.

These breakthrough medications help promote weight loss in several ways. They can decrease appetite and hunger signals, leading to reduced food intake. They can help slow down the rate at which food moves through your stomach and small intestine, which can make you feel fuller longer. GLP-1s are also believed to help reduce “food noise,” which refers to heightened and/or persistent thoughts about food, often leading to food-related intrusive thoughts and unhealthy eating behaviors. GLP-1 medications also help improve your body’s response to insulin, which can lead to weight loss.

Yes, it matters what you eat while you are on a GLP-1. In fact, since you will likely have a reduced appetite, it’s very important that the smaller amount you eat is full of essential vitamins and minerals. In other words, each bite matters more and individuals taking GLP-1s should adopt an evidence-based approach to their nutrition. Nutrient-dense whole foods are vital for individuals taking GLP-1s. That’s why Omada’s care teams and our in-app, AI-powered nutrition tools are specially trained to support the unique health needs of our members taking GLP-1s.

Eating a balanced diet, which includes protein is always important, and is especially important while you are on a GLP-1. Rapid weight loss that may occur with the use of a GLP-1 medication can result in a loss of muscle mass. Studies suggest this muscle loss ranges from 25%-39% of total weight lost over the first 3-6 months of GLP-1 treatment. Losing muscle mass can affect your metabolism and make it harder to maintain weight loss long-term. Eating enough protein while you are on a GLP-1 can also help preserve lean muscle

Exercise is another way to help maintain muscle mass while you are on a GLP-1. Specifically, strength and resistance training can combat muscle mass loss while taking a GLP-1. Strength and resistance training don’t have to include gym memberships and fancy equipment. You can use your own body weight and even incorporate exercises into your daily routine, such as walking up and down stairs or doing squats. In some programs, Omada offers access to highly skilled Physical Activity Specialists who can help members with customized exercise plans during GLP-1 treatment⁴.

When you stop taking a GLP-1, your body will stop receiving signals from the medication that reduce hunger and slow digestion and you’ll likely notice your appetite return.  For many people, this leads to weight gain, but this doesn’t have to be the case.

Omada members who receive support  while on GLP-1s and after discontinuing are often able to maintain their weight. In a recent analysis, we found that one year after stopping a GLP-1, Omada members largely maintained their weight loss (just a 0.8% average weight change), on average.

Omada supports members during all stages of their GLP-1 journey. That means providing personalized care before, during and after GLP-1 use. Members in Omada’s GLP-1 companion program get access to a health coach, cardiometabolic specialist, a physical activity specialist, and AI-supported nutrition guidance to promote behavior change and lay a foundation for long-term weight maintenance.