Episode Description

Weight loss medications, GLP-1, Ozempic alternatives, side effects, and sustainable weight loss—functional medicine practitioner Marie Simpson breaks it down. In this episode, we unpack how weight loss medications (GLP-1 receptor agonists) actually work, who they help, and where they can go wrong. We also share practical ways to boost satiety hormones naturally so you can see results—on or off meds. If you’re curious about weight loss medications, confused about the hype, or want a safer path, you’ll love Marie’s clear, balanced take on GLP-1 weight loss and real-world habits that last.

Timestamps (in parentheses)

(00:00) Introduction to weight loss medications & why everyone’s talking GLP-1

(02:18) How GLP-1s work: satiety, insulin, stomach emptying

(05:01) Why some were pulled; today’s versions & indications

(07:22) Bad → Better → Best: medication vs root-cause approach

(10:10) Caution on quick online prescribing & one-size-fits-all care

(12:04) Who benefits most from GLP-1 weight loss medications

(15:30) Muscle loss risk: why resistance training is non-negotiable

(18:15) What happens when you stop: rebound weight gain explained

(21:42) Natural ways to raise GLP-1: protein, fiber, healthy fats, meal order

(25:05) Slow carbs, cravings, and blood sugar balance

(28:17) Joy, stress & dopamine: your brain’s role in eating

(31:33) Post-meal 10-minute walks: small habit, big impact

(34:02) Side effects to know: GI issues, gallbladder, bowel obstruction, mood

(37:21) If you use meds, do this: training, protein targets, plan your exit

(40:00) Faith, grace & sustainable health: why “not perfect” still works

Key Takeaways

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• GLP-1 weight loss meds help satiety and blood sugar, but they’re not for everyone—and not a quick fix.
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• Stopping can regain 75–80% of lost weight without lifestyle changes; plan for strength, protein, and habits.
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• Expect 25–40% of scale loss to be lean mass without resistance training and adequate protein.
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• You can boost GLP-1 naturally: ~30g protein/meal, 30–40g fiber/day, healthy fats, “fiber/protein first” meal order, slow carbs, and a 10-minute walk after meals.
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• Side effects are real (GI upset, constipation/diarrhea, gallbladder issues, rare bowel obstruction, possible mood changes). Work with a practitioner.
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Guest Bio

Marrie Simpson, FNP, Functional Medicine Practitioner — Founder of Elevate Health & Wellness, Marrie blends conventional and functional medicine to address root causes. She helps clients personalize nutrition, movement, and smart medication use (when needed) to create sustainable metabolic health and real-world results.

Resource Links

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Find More From Lesa Here!

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• Work with Marie: marriesimpson.com
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• Lesa’s Protein Ball Recipe (flax + chia):
• 2 c oatmeal
• 1 c peanut butter or nut butter
• 1 c ground flaxseed
• 3/4 bag dark chocolate chips
• TBS vanilla
• a big scoop of Chia seeds
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Tags/Keywords

weight loss medications, GLP-1 weight loss, GLP-1 receptor agonist, Ozempic alternatives, semaglutide weight loss, natural GLP-1 boost, muscle loss on GLP-1, sustainable weight loss, functional medicine weight loss, protein for weight loss, fiber for satiety, post-meal walk blood sugar, weight loss after 40, women’s metabolic health, Marrie Simpson, Doing Life Different podcast