The Metabolic Classroom with Dr. Ben Bikman

Could We Use GLP-1 Drugs like Ozempic & Mounjaro Better? A Smarter Weight Loss Strategy

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Mar 6, 2025

Discover the fascinating world of GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic and Mounjaro, and how they could reshape weight loss strategies. Delve into the complex relationship between gut health and mental wellness, as Dr. Bikman discusses the effects of these drugs on appetite control and carbohydrate cravings. Uncover a four-step plan for smarter usage that emphasizes low doses, resistance training, and dietary adjustments. Learn about the potential risks involved and the importance of a holistic approach to weight management and metabolic health.

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INSIGHT

GLP-1 Hormone Basics

GLP-1 is a gut hormone that suppresses glucagon, slows gastric emptying, and signals satiety to the brain.
Synthetic GLP-1 drugs mimic these effects, promoting significant weight loss but impacting appetite and digestion.

INSIGHT

Obesity Blunts GLP-1 Response

Individuals with obesity have a blunted GLP-1 response to carbohydrates, failing to signal fullness effectively.
This impaired response may explain why people with obesity tend to overeat carbs.

INSIGHT

Mental Health Risks from GLP-1 Drugs

GLP-1 drugs are linked to doubled risks of psychiatric disorders, including depression and suicidal behavior.
This real-world data signals mental health risks must be weighed alongside metabolic benefits.

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In this Metabolic Classroom lecture, Dr. Bikman explores GLP-1 receptor agonists (such as Ozempic and Mounjaro) and how to use them more effectively.

Ben first explains how GLP-1 is naturally produced in the gut and helps regulate glucagon suppression, slows gastric emptying, and promotes satiety. However, he highlights research showing that individuals with obesity have a blunted GLP-1 response to carbohydrates, which may contribute to overeating. He suggests that GLP-1 drugs could be used more strategically—not just for general weight loss, but specifically to control carbohydrate cravings.

While these drugs can promote rapid weight loss, they can also come with serious trade-offs, including mental health risks (depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts), lean mass loss (up to 40% of weight lost), diminishing effects over time, and digestive complications such as gastroparesis (stomach paralysis). He critiques the current high-dose, long-term approach to these medications, arguing that most people are not using them strategically and eventually regain lost weight—primarily as fat.

Dr. Bikman proposes a better approach to using GLP-1 drugs that focuses on low-dose, short-term usage to help control carbohydrate cravings, rather than suppressing appetite completely.

His four-step plan includes: (1) starting at the lowest effective dose, (2) engaging in resistance training to preserve muscle mass, (3) adopting a low-carb, high-protein diet, and (4) cycling off the drug after 3-6 months to assess whether cravings remain under control. He also discusses newer GLP-1/GIP dual agonists like Tirzepatide, which may be even more effective but still require careful usage.

In closing, Ben emphasizes that GLP-1 drugs should be a tool, not a crutch.

The ultimate goal should be to regain control over eating habits, build long-term dietary discipline, and use the drug only when needed. He encourages those considering these medications to work closely with their healthcare providers and approach them with a long-term metabolic health strategy in mind.

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