In this episode of Body Aligned, Erin—your faith-fueled health coach and registered dietitian—unpacks the truth behind GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro in a grounded, science-based, and grace-filled way.

We explore:

• What is GLP-1? How these meds mimic a natural hormone to reduce appetite and support blood sugar.
• What does the research show? Learn from large clinical trials showing 12–20% weight loss — and how benefits often reverse when the medication stops. (STEP series; REDEFINE trials)
• Cardiovascular benefits beyond weight loss. The landmark SELECT trial found that semaglutide reduced heart attack, stroke, or death by 20% in adults with obesity and heart disease—even without diabetes. The benefits persisted over four years.
  (ACC Summary, among others)
• Rising prescribing trends. GLP-1 medications are increasingly prescribed—even in people without diabetes—raising important questions about accessibility and stewardship.
  (AJMC prescribing trends report)
• Real-world weight regain. Meta-analysis data show that most people regain weight within a year of stopping GLP-1s unless underlying habits are addressed.
  (The Guardian summary of weight regain findings)
• Side effects & risks. From GI upset to rare but serious signals around pancreatitis or thyroid tumors—not to be ignored.
  (Wikipedia GLP-1 adverse effects)
• Your wise choice: Erin offers faith-based perspective and practical wisdom to help you discern if medication is a needed tool or a shortcut you're not ready for—without shame or fear.

Whether you're curious, considering, or questioning, this episode walks you through biology, budget, benefits, and belief—so you can make a decision grounded in truth and grace.

Key Studies & Sources

• SELECT trial (MACE reduction in obesity):
  American College of Cardiology summary American College of Cardiology
  The Lancet analysis The Lancet
  New England Journal of Medicine full data New England Journal of Medicine
  Four-year follow-up news Verywell Health
• Prescribing Patterns:
  Trends in GLP-1 prescribing (AjMC, 2025) AJMC
• Weight Regain Data:
  Meta-analysis of regain within one year The Guardian
• Potential Anti-inflammatory Benefits (beyond weight loss):
  Time Magazine overview of anti-inflammatory effects TIME
• GLP-1 Adverse Effects Overview:
  Wikipedia summary of side effects, including GI issues and rare thyroid risk Wikipedia
• Emerging GLP-1 Therapies (REDEFINE trials):
  Semaglutide + cagrilintide results (2025, NEJM) Wikipedia