I've been seeing information about an Ozempic-like hormone in the news recently. News headlines are telling us that apparently our bodies make an Ozempic-like hormone. These headlines make me laugh out loud, but then quickly annoy me. In short, because Ozempic is actually a mimic of that very hormone that our bodies make! It is a well known phenomenon that our bodies produce a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) in response to eating food. It's just a click-bait headline. But here is the deal.
After eating, digesting food arrives from the stomach into the small intestine. The digestion byproducts trigger the release of a hormone called GLP-1--the Ozempic-like hormone. This hormone is released into the intestine, and from there it enters blood circulation. Simultaneously, it is released by cells in the brain directly in the brain where there are receptors that bind the GLP-1 to decrease appetite.
Foods that Trigger the Release of the Ozempic-Like Hormone, GLP-1
It is well known that food breakdown products stimulate the release of GLP-1. Specifically, the breakdown products of carbohydrates, fat, and protein. That is, all caloric nutrients stimulate the release of GLP-1, the Ozempic-like hormone. There is research on some more specific nutrient factors that are known to increase GLP-1 release: fermentable fiber, monounsaturated fats, polyunsaturated fats, and adequate protein.
New Information on Ozempic-Like Hormone GLP-1 and Nutrition?
This information is not new. The role of GLP-1, the Ozempic-like hormone, is not adding any nuance to the picture of healthy eating. Eating adequate fiber, choosing healthy fats like mono and polyunsaturated fats, and eating enough protein are all recommendations that dietitians have been making for years. Unfortunately, basic nutrition is not that enticing. A quick-fix solution sounds more alluring.
With headlines like this, I always will remind people that it is often the basic, simple, and maybe boring good nutrition that keeps us healthy. Always take an exciting health headline with a grain of salt. If you are wondering how to incorporate what you read into your own life, you can ask a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.