Glucagon Like Peptide 1

What is Glucagon-Like Peptide 1?

Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 (GLP-1) helps regulate your appetite, especially after eating. It also helps enhance the production of insulin. GLP-1 is produced in the gut. The cells in the small intestine are the main source of GLP-1. The pancreas and nervous system also produce GLP-1, but in smaller amounts. GLP-1 helps you feel full during and between meals by working with the brain and by slowly emptying the stomach.

How Does Your Body Use GLP-1?

Eating food helps stimulate your body to release GLP-1. The hormone can be found as soon as 10 minutes after eating. GLP-1 stays in your body hours after eating and circulates in the blood.

←More about Mealtime Insulin

What Problems Can Occur with GLP-1?

Cases of in which patients have too much GLP-1 are extremely rare. However, medications have been created that act similar to GLP-1 in blood circulation to help control glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes. GLP-1 levels may also increase after bariatric surgery.

If your body does not produce enough GLP-1, it may increase the odds of becoming obese. The main role of GLP-1 is to regulate your appetite after a meal. If your body isn’t releasing enough of this hormone, you may find yourself overeating or snacking between meals. However more research is needed to confirm this. People who are dieting or losing weight naturally may also experience low GLP-1 levels.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

If you are dieting and trying to control your weight, understanding the role of GLP-1 may help. Consider asking your doctor:

• If I am dieting, how can I prevent myself from overeating or snacking between meals?
• How can GLP-1 help if I have type 2 diabetes?
• If my GLP-1 levels are low, is it responsible for my weight struggles?

←More about Medications to Treat Diabetes