As GLP-1 drugs are reshaping the weight loss landscape, peptides are becoming part of the conversation about improving results. If you don’t know what that means, you’re in the right place. Ahead, a registered dietitian and nutritionist explains what peptides are and how they can work with GLP-1 medications to support weight management.
Experts are not included
- Sahar Berjis is a registered dietitian and the founder of Inner Health and Wellness
- Jennifer Hanway is a holistic nutritionist
GLP-1s vs. Peptides
Although GLP-1s are technically peptides, they act in a very different way in the body than non-GLP-1 peptides. “Peptides are short chains of amino acids, designed to support the body by acting as small messengers,” says Sahar Berjis, registered dietitian and founder of Inner Health and Wellness. “They play a role in almost every system in the body, including metabolism, muscle maintenance, gut health, hormone balance, inflammation and recovery.”
In fact, peptides are prescribed and given under the care of a medical provider and cover many health categories. One common example is copper peptides, which have been used for many years in dermatology to support skin health and repair.
When it comes to weight management, peptides work in a similar supportive way. Although peptides do not directly cause weight loss, they may support weight management in indirect ways. As holistic nutritionist Jennifer Hanway explains, peptides don’t burn fat by themselves. Instead, they influence processes that affect body weight, such as appetite control, insulin sensitivity, inflammation, muscle maintenance and gut health.
GLP-1s work differently. They are an outlier in how they work specifically on appetite and blood sugar control. “They reduce gastric emptying and improve glucose-dependent insulin secretion, allowing most of the weight loss to come from the continued reduction of caloric intake rather than directly correcting metabolic dysfunction,” Hanway explains.
Do Peptides Have Side Effects?
Like all medications and supplements, peptides can come with side effects, which vary depending on several factors. The type of peptide, the dose, the method of administration and the person’s physiology can all influence how the body reacts. “Negative effects are often seen when the body is pushed too much or given something it doesn’t need—that’s why it’s important to be guided individually,” said Berjis.
Common side effects are usually mild and may include nausea, headache, temporary fatigue, changes in sleep quality or irritation at the injection site of the peptide injections. According to Hanway, the most dangerous side effects are often linked to non-medical use, such as packing more peptides without proper monitoring or using supraphysiologic doses, instead of the peptides themselves. He adds that problems can also stem from lifestyle factors, including eating less, not eating enough protein or calories and not exercising regularly.
Can Peptides & GLP-1 Be Used Together?
Experts agree that the two can be used together when considered and under medical supervision. “The combined approach helps address common challenges associated with GLP-1 use, including lean body mass loss, decreased metabolic rate, gastrointestinal discomfort and slow tissue repair,” Hanway said. Berjis adds that the goal is not rapid weight loss at all costs. When used correctly, GLP-1 and peptides can support weight loss without compromising strength, energy or overall well-being.
What to Expect When Using GLP-1s & Peptides?
You may wonder if combining GLP-1 with peptides increases the risk of side effects. In some cases, it may be the opposite. GLP-1s are often associated with nausea, constipation, fatigue and poor appetite. Berjis says that certain supportive peptides can help correct these effects by aiding digestion, supporting hydration and recovery and reducing burnout. More often than not, side effects are caused by poor nutrition, not getting enough protein or pushing the body too hard rather than from synthesis itself.
