Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a hormone in the intestine that regulates blood sugar levels, appetite, and digestion. Increasing GLP-1 levels can be beneficial for people with diabetes, obesity, or metabolic syndrome. 

While medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide exist to stimulate GLP-1 production, incorporating certain foods and supplements into your diet can also naturally enhance GLP-1 secretion. In this podcast, we’ll talk about some of these foods and supplements and their potential benefits for gut health and metabolism.

Soluble Fiber-Rich Foods

Fiber is well-known for its numerous health benefits, including improved digestion, weight management, and blood sugar control. Certain types of fiber, such as soluble fiber, have been shown to increase GLP-1 secretion. 

Oats, barley, and legumes (such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas) are rich in soluble fiber. Brussels sprouts, avocados, and flaxseeds also help. Incorporating these soluble fiber-rich foods into your meals can help support healthy GLP-1 levels and promote overall gut health.

Remember that soluble fiber absorbs water and creates a gel-like substance in your body. Because of this, staying hydrated and gradually increasing your fiber intake over time is important to help minimize digestive upset and constipation.

Fatty Fish

Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and trout are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to have numerous health benefits, including improving insulin sensitivity and increasing GLP-1 secretion. 

Incorporating fatty fish into your diet two to three times per week can help support a healthy gut and metabolic function. Grilling, baking, or broiling fish with herbs and spices is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy these omega-3-rich foods.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are nutrient-dense foods with various health benefits, including supporting gut health and increasing GLP-1 levels. Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are particularly rich in fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants that can stimulate GLP-1 secretion. 

Snacking on a handful of nuts or seeds, adding them to salads, yogurt, or smoothies, or using them as a topping for oatmeal or baked goods are all easy ways to incorporate these nutritious foods into your diet.

Lean proteins

Lean proteins can increase GLP-1 levels and help maintain muscle mass. This is helpful for people taking GLP-1 medications like semaglutide since muscle loss and body fat often occur. 

It’s important to offset this by eating as much lean protein as possible. Examples of lean proteins include fish, chicken, turkey, and eggs. Lean cuts of beef, cottage cheese, and tofu are also great sources of lean protein.

Keep in mind: Protein may also naturally reduce your appetite.

Curcumin

Curcumin is the main compound found in turmeric, a spice widely used in traditional Indian cuisine and known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies have suggested that curcumin may decrease blood sugar and increase GLP-1 levels. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms underlying its effects on GLP-1 and its potential therapeutic applications in metabolic disorders.

Yerba Mate

Yerba mate is a traditional South American beverage made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. It is known for its stimulating effects due to its caffeine content. It also contains polyphenols and saponins, which have been studied for their potential health benefits, including fat loss and appetite reduction.

Berberine

Berberine is a plant-based compound found in goldenseal, barberry, and Oregon grape. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat various ailments, including digestive disorders and diabetes. Berberine has garnered attention for its ability to modulate glucose and lipid metabolism, partly through its effects on GLP-1 secretion.

Thanks again for listening to The Peptide Podcast. We love having you as part of our community. If you love this podcast, please share it with your friends and family on social media, and have a happy, healthy week!

We’re huge advocates of elevating your health game with nutrition, supplements, and vitamins. Whether it’s a daily boost or targeted support, we trust and use Momentous products to supercharge our wellness journey. 

Momentous only uses the highest-quality ingredients, and every single product is rigorously tested by independent third parties to ensure their products deliver on their promise to bring you the best supplements on the market.