GLP-1 Supplements Are Everywhere - But What Are They Really Doing?
Introduction
With the rise of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, a flood of GLP-1-targeting supplements and probiotics has hit the wellness industry - many promising appetite control, blood sugar balance, and weight loss. These products operate through different mechanisms. Some, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists, are lab-made compounds that mimic the body's natural GLP-1 hormone by binding to its receptors, thereby regulating blood sugar and appetite. Others aim to stimulate your body's own GLP-1 production—often by influencing your gut microbiome. Certain probiotic strains can enhance GLP-1 secretion by fermenting dietary fibers into short-chain fatty acids, which then activate receptors on intestinal L-cells to release GLP-1.
This article focuses on GLP-1-enhancing probiotics—a category that includes strains like Akkermansia muciniphila—and the lesser-known risks they may pose when taken in excess. We’re not discussing pharmaceutical GLP-1 receptor agonists here, but rather the gut-based approach to boosting GLP-1 naturally—and why "more" doesn’t always mean "better."
GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) is a powerful hormone made in our gut, specifically by the L-cells in the small intestine and colon, in response to food.
It plays a key role in
Appetite regulation (tells your brain you're full) and weight management
Slowing gastric emptying (keeps you satisfied longer)
Stimulating insulin release (helps manage blood sugar)
Reducing inflammation and supporting metabolic health
You might have heard of GLP-1 in the context of popular medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, which are GLP-1 receptor agonists. These drugs mimic the action of GLP-1 to support weight loss and blood sugar control, especially in type 2 diabetes and obesity.
👉 Learn more about GLP-1 medications in this related article
Did you know your own gut can naturally produce this hormone—with the right support?
Healthy gut microbes like Akkermansia muciniphila and Bifidobacterium stimulate GLP-1 release by fermenting dietary fibre into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) - beneficial compounds like butyrate. These SCFAs play a crucial role in gut health by nourishing the gut lining, reducing inflammation, and sending signals to the L-cells in your intestine to release GLP-1. Research has demonstrated that SCFAs stimulate GLP-1 secretion, highlighting the connection between dietary fiber intake, gut microbiota activity, and metabolic health.
This is why GLP-1 targeting probiotics have gained popularity, many of which contain probiotic strains like Akkermansia muciniphila to enhance metabolic health.
But more GLP-1 isn't always better
This is because
Akkermansia feeds on the gut’s protective mucous layer. While moderate amounts can support gut and immune function, too much can thin this barrier, leading to increased intestinal permeability (leaky gut), inflammation, and immune dysregulation
An overgrowth of Akkermansia is linked to Multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, Colorectal cancer, and Autoimmune flares
So while the idea of taking a probiotic to boost GLP-1, and therefore reduce appetite or support blood sugar, sounds promising, forcing the gut ecosystem out of balance can backfire.
Instead, there are natural ways you can support GLP-1 with foods, or you can work directly with a practitioner who is able to use clinical skills and resources to determine what you need on a bio individual level.
Support GLP-1 naturally with
Prebiotic fibre - leeks, garlic, green bananas
Fermented foods - sauerkraut, kefir
Polyphenols - berries, olive oil)
Healthy fats - olives, avocado, nuts/seeds
Bitter greens and protein to stimulate gut hormones
Limiting ultra-processed foods and sugar that damage the gut lining and microbiome
