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David Foreman is a pharmacist, author, speaker and media personality known internationally as “The Herbal Pharmacist.” A graduate of the University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, Foreman currently consults with leading ingredient suppliers, helping them turn their clinical studies into digestible content through papers, webinars, seminars and books. He is also a regular contributor to most of the industry’s leading publications and trade events. Here he discusses how natural product retailers can navigate the use of GLP-1 support products with their customers.

Question: What is GLP-1 and how does it work?

Answer: GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone that serves as a master regulator of several crucial metabolic processes. When we eat, specialized cells in our intestines release GLP-1, which then triggers a series of effects throughout our body. Think of GLP-1 as a conductor in an orchestra, coordinating multiple musicians (our organs and systems) to play in perfect harmony. The hormone works through three main pathways:

Brain: GLP-1 communicates with our appetite control centers in the brain, helping us feel satisfied with our meals. This is similar to how a thermostat regulates temperature. When enough food has been consumed, GLP-1 signals that we’ve reached our “set point” and can stop eating.

Pancreas: GLP-1 helps the pancreas manage blood sugar by stimulating insulin production when needed and reducing glucagon (a hormone that raises blood sugar). This dual action creates a balanced approach to blood sugar control, like having a gas pedal and brake in a car.

Digestive System: In the digestive system, GLP-1 slows down the rate at which food leaves our stomach. This gradual release of nutrients helps prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar and prolongs the feeling of fullness.

Question: What are the public health implications of GLP-1 medications?

Answer: The widespread adoption of GLP-1 medications has created both opportunities and challenges for public health:

The Positive Impact
These treatments have shown remarkable effectiveness in addressing several major health concerns:

• Reduced rates of obesity-related complications

• Better management of type 2 diabetes

• Improved heart health outcomes

• Potential cognitive benefits

• Potential benefits for alcohol and drug dependence

The Challenges
Several significant concerns need to be addressed:

• Cost and access issues create treatment disparities

• Limited long-term data on extended use

• Supply chain pressures affecting medication availability

• Questions about effects on gut health and the microbiome

Question: What are natural ways to support our body’s GLP-1?

Answer: In medicine, “supporting the body” refers to a treatment approach that aims to assist the body’s natural healing mechanisms by providing necessary support and interventions that work with the body’s physiology. Example: A doctor recommends dietary changes and exercise for someone with high blood pressure rather than immediately prescribing medication.

Supporting the body’s natural production of GLP-1 is quite different than giving the body a “drug” version. GLP-1 agonists are not GLP-1 but a modified version of GLP-1 that is more active on a receptor. Natural GLP-1 is broken down quickly (the body’s natural process) versus GLP-1 agonists, which are designed to resist being broken down (allowing them to stay in the bloodstream longer).

Supporting the body’s natural production of GLP-1 can provide benefits. In an ideal situation, the goal would be to seek natural alternatives to help support the body’s natural production of GLP-1 and avoid the potential for undesirable side effects caused by its pharmaceutical counterpart (GLP-1 agonist).

Question: What should retailers consider when stocking GLP-1 support products?

Answer: Retailers need to be well-informed about these supplements to make educated purchasing decisions and effectively address consumer inquiries. Here are a few key points retailers should consider before stocking GLP-1 supplements:

• Quality and Efficacy: Make sure the products are supported by scientific research and have undergone safety and effectiveness testing. Seek brands that offer clear information about their ingredients and manufacturing processes.

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure the supplements comply with industry and government rules and regulations. A potential red flag is a company advertising their supplement as an alternative to GLP-1 agonists. This also includes verifying necessary certifications and approvals from relevant health authorities.

• Brand Reputation: Select products from respected brands known for producing high-quality supplements. Investigate customer reviews and industry feedback to assess the brand’s trustworthiness.

Consumers will have questions about GLP-1 supplements, including how they work, their benefits and potential side effects. Retailers should be prepared to provide accurate and helpful information. One effective strategy is to suggest that consumers reach out to the brand directly for detailed scientific support and evidence regarding how the product boosts GLP-1 levels or helps those using GLP-1 agonists. The brand can then provide comprehensive answers to complex questions, which retailers can relay to their customers.