What Are GLP‑1s Really?Understanding the Hype, the Hormones, and the Whole Truth - posted by Heather Newman | #GetUnstuckPodcast

If you’ve been hearing about Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or Rybelsus and wondering, “What even IS this stuff everyone’s injecting?”—you’re not alone.

The conversation around GLP‑1s has exploded. And it’s messy. Between influencers flaunting fast weight loss, critics calling it a shortcut, and doctors pushing prescriptions—what’s real, what’s hype, and what should you actually know?

I recorded an entire episode of the #GetUnstuckPodcast to break this down without drama, without shame, and without pushing an agenda.

Because here's the deal...

👉 GLP‑1s aren’t magic pills.

👉 They’re hormone-based medications.

👉 And yes, if you’re using them—you’re doing hormone therapy.

Let’s stop pretending otherwise.

Wait—What Is a GLP‑1?

GLP‑1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone your gut naturally releases after you eat. Its job?

✔️ Increase insulin

✔️ Slow down how fast your stomach empties

✔️ Help you feel full

✔️ Lower blood sugar

Scientists created GLP‑1 receptor agonists (GLP‑1RAs) to mimic this hormone. That’s what’s in medications like:

• Ozempic

• Wegovy

• Mounjaro

• Victoza

• Trulicity

• Rybelsus (oral version)

Originally created to treat type 2 diabetes, these meds also led to significant weight loss—and now they’re used off-label by millions, even those without diabetes.

So... Do They Work?

Yes, they work. Really well for some people.Many users report losing 15–25% of their body weight, along with improved blood sugar, cholesterol, and even blood pressure.

Emerging studies suggest GLP‑1s may also help with:

🧠 PCOS ovulation

🧠 Inflammation

🧠 Alzheimer’s risk

🧠 Fatty liver

🧠 Addictive behaviors

But it’s not all sparkle and glow.

The Other Side: Real Risks, Real Talk

⚠️ GI side effects are common (nausea, diarrhea, vomiting).

⚠️ Rare but serious risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, kidney strain, and thyroid cell changes (seen in animal studies).

⚠️ “Ozempic face” is a cosmetic concern—when facial fat loss leads to sagging skin.

⚠️ Muscle loss is possible if you're not eating enough protein or strength training while on it.

And here’s the kicker:

If you stop taking it without changing your lifestyle, weight regain is almost guaranteed.These meds work while you’re on them. They're not a cure. They’re a tool.

Hormone Hype vs. Hormone Hate

There’s a lot of shaming happening online. Some people use GLP‑1s and hide it. Others criticize those who do.

But here’s the truth:

🧬 GLP‑1s are hormone therapy.

So if someone’s criticizing hormone replacement therapy while they’re on Ozempic... they’re missing the point.

There’s nothing wrong with using hormone-based tools—if you’re informed, supported, and doing it with intention.

Why I’m Talking About This Now

Because we need education—not more noise.

My mission at GlitterU and on the #GetUnstuckPodcast is to give you real tools, structure, and truth to live better—not to tell you what to do, but to help you understand what you’re doing.

So if you're curious, if you're thinking about these medications, if you're already on one—or if you're just trying to make sense of it all—this new episode is for you.

🎙 LISTEN TO THE FULL BREAKDOWN→ glitteru.com/listen-now

Inside the episode:

• How GLP‑1s work (in plain English)

• Who they’re for

• The real pros and cons

• Long-term effects

• What you need to know before starting—or stopping

Let’s cut through the confusion.Let’s talk about hormones like grown women.Let’s stop settling for half-truths.

You're allowed to ask questions. You're allowed to care about your health. And you're allowed to do it without shame.

ready to stop guessing and start sculpting?

our july issue of TONE: the issue™ is now open.a 4-week structured plan to walk, lift, and live with intention—designed by me, done by u.

join us now at 👉 ToneN10.com

because structure is self-respect™.

xo,

Heather

@glitteru#structureisselfrespect™ | #getunstuckpodcast