GLP-1 Fatigue: Why You’re Tired & How to Get Your Energy Back
Jun 13, 2025
Feeling fatigued on GLP-1 medications? You're not alone! This discussion dives into the science behind GLP-1 fatigue, revealing causes like calorie restrictions and hormonal changes. Discover how dehydration and nutrient deficiencies can sap your energy. The talk emphasizes practical solutions, including hydration and dietary tweaks, to help restore vitality. Get ready to learn how to combat tiredness and reclaim your energy!
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insights INSIGHT
GLP-1 Fatigue Is Multifactorial
Fatigue on GLP-1 drugs like tirzepatide and retatrutide is common, affecting 5-8% in trials but likely more in real life.
Fatigue may stem from diverse factors like dose, rapid weight loss, and pre-existing low energy states in users.
insights INSIGHT
Calorie Deficit Drives Fatigue
Calorie restriction from appetite suppression causes a large calorie deficit and lower blood glucose.
This leads to fatigue and brain fog as the body adjusts to lower energy availability.
insights INSIGHT
Body Slows Metabolism Defensively
Metabolic adaptation slows metabolism during rapid weight loss on GLP-1s via hormonal changes like leptin and thyroid drops.
This slowdown conserves energy but causes tiredness, cold intolerance, and low activity motivation.
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If you’re struggling with fatigue, low motivation, or brain fog while on GLP-1 agonists like tirzepatide or retatrutide, you are NOT alone! I get asked about “GLP-1 fatigue” constantly, and in this video, I dive deep into why so many people experience tiredness on these meds, the science behind it, and—most importantly—what you can do to overcome it and get your energy back.
I cover everything from calorie restriction and dehydration to hormone and mitochondrial slowdown, and even the toxic load released during rapid fat loss. Whether you’re new to GLP-1s or have hit an energy wall, this is the comprehensive review you need!
Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro: Why are GLP-1 users so fatigued? 1:33 – What are GLP-1s, and why do people use them? 2:30 – How common is fatigue on GLP-1s? 3:24 – Who gets prescribed GLP-1s and why fatigue might be worse for some 4:10 – Calorie restriction and appetite suppression 5:43 – Metabolic adaptation: Why your metabolism slows down 6:20 – Nutrient deficiencies and low protein 7:37 – Weight loss itself: Why rapid fat loss can make you feel weak 7:41 – Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances 8:39 – Reduced thirst and GI side effects 9:56 – Blood sugar fluctuations and hypoglycemia 11:03 – Brain effects: Dopamine, mood, and motivation 12:15 – Hormonal changes: Leptin, thyroid, testosterone 13:40 – Neurological factors: GLP-1 in the brain 15:49 – The “detox effect” of rapid fat loss 17:06 – How toxin release and inflammation cause fatigue 18:47 – Mitochondrial slowdown: Why you feel so flat 20:45 – Practical fixes: What to do about GLP-1 fatigue 22:57 – How to eat, hydrate, and adjust your dose 24:15 – Timing your injections and microdosing 25:30 – Circadian rhythm, sunlight, and lifestyle tips 26:42 – Closing thoughts and community feedback
If you’ve experienced fatigue or brain fog on GLP-1s, comment below—share what worked for you! And if you want a deeper dive into peptides, hormones, and biohacking, grab my free peptide cheat sheet in the description and join Fully Optimized Health, the best community for health optimization.
Thank you for being here—I’m grateful for every one of you! If you found this helpful, like, comment, and subscribe for more science-backed content.
The Hunter Williams Podcast