Do GLP-1 Supplements Work Naturally for Health?

May 9, 2025

The buzz around GLP-1 for weight and blood sugar management is hard to ignore, especially with GLP-1 medications. However, the costly prescriptions, weekend injections, and routine doctor visits can become too overwhelming. That's likely when those natural GLP-1 supplements catch your eye. But does it truly deliver the same results as prescribed medications?

This blog will explore the world of GLP-1 supplements and examine how they compare to their prescription counterparts. Let’s see whether they live up to their claims of naturally boosting GLP-1 levels to manage weight and metabolic health!

What are GLP-1 supplements?

GLP-1 supplements are over-the-counter products marketed as natural alternatives to prescription GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Wegovy and Ozempic. These supplements aim to boost the body's levels of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone produced in the gut that plays a key role in managing blood sugar levels and weight.

Here's a quick breakdown of how GLP-1 works:

Boosts insulin: The hormone encourages your pancreas to release more insulin, especially after a meal, which helps lower blood sugar.
Lowers glucagon: It signals your pancreas to reduce the production of glucagon, a hormone that increases blood sugar.
Slows digestion: GLP-1 delays the emptying of food from your stomach, promoting a feeling of fullness.
Reduces hunger: It sends signals to your brain that can decrease appetite and cravings.

GLP-1 supplements contain various ingredients that are claimed to either stimulate your body's own L-cells in the gut to produce more GLP-1 or to indirectly mimic some of the effects of this powerful hormone. However, they do not contain actual GLP-1 or its direct synthetic counterparts, which are the basis of prescription GLP-1 receptor agonist medications.

Next, let’s take a closer look at what these GLP-1 supplements are made up of!

What are the main ingredients in GLP-1 supplements?

GLP-1 supplements contain a diverse array of ingredients that companies market as natural ways to stimulate GLP-1 production in your body. While each supplement has its unique formulation, the following are some of the common ingredients you might find:

L-taurine: An amino acid, often added for its general metabolic support.
Prebiotics: These are fibers that feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut, and they may have an indirect effect on GLP-1 secretion.
Boron: A trace mineral with potential metabolic benefits, but lacks sufficient evidence in relation to GLP-1.
Berberine: This plant-based compound found in various herbs has shown potential in increasing GLP-1 levels and improving glucose metabolism. However, the studies are focused mainly on individuals without diabetes.
Eriomin: It is a lemon extract containing specific flavonoids that is suggested to support insulin function and GLP-1 levels. However, its supportive research derives primarily from manufacturer-backed studies rather than independent trials.
Chromium: This mineral is occasionally included in the supplement for its purported effect on appetite and blood sugar. Yet, its direct impact on GLP-1 is under-researched.
Supresa: A saffron extract that claims to reduce appetite and cravings, but there is scarce concrete evidence linking it to GLP-1 enhancement, especially in diverse or diabetic populations.
Morosil: This extract from a specific type of blood orange is marketed for weight management benefits, though improvements seen in clinical studies sometimes mimic placebo effects.
Green tea leaf extract: Renowned for its catechins, this ingredient supports GLP-1 secretion, but most evidence is derived from animal and in vitro studies.

Despite these claims and the variety of promising ingredients, current scientific evidence fails to confirm that these supplements are as effective as GLP-1 receptor agonist medications. Let’s learn more about this next!

Do GLP-1 supplements actually work?

GLP-1 supplements claim to increase GLP-1 levels in the body. However, this is not true. They do not boost hormone levels to the same extent as natural physiological responses to eating or the effects achieved by prescription GLP-1 receptor agonist medications. Several factors contribute to this:

Bioavailability: The ingredients in these supplements may not be effectively absorbed by the body in sufficient quantities to exert a significant effect on GLP-1 production. The digestive system and other metabolic processes can break down these compounds before they reach their intended targets.
Dosage: The concentration of active compounds within these supplements might be too low to trigger a substantial increase in GLP-1 release from the gut's L-cells. The amount needed for a noticeable effect might not be achievable through over-the-counter formulations.
Regulation: Dietary supplements are not subject to the same rigorous testing and approval processes as prescription drugs by regulatory bodies like the FDA. This means there's no guarantee of the purity, potency, or even the presence of the listed ingredients, let alone their effectiveness in boosting GLP-1.
Indirect effects: Any potential benefits observed with these supplements are typically indirect. They are more aligned with general gut health improvements, such as those obtained from fiber intake, than a direct and substantial increase in GLP-1 compared to prescription medications.

Also read: How Taking Probiotics Daily Can Aid in Weight Loss?

Are you considering adding a GLP-1 supplement to your routine? Let’s see if it’s safe to have them!

Are GLP-1 supplements safe?

If you're generally healthy and don't have any pre-existing medical conditions, GLP-1 supplements may seem like a harmless addition. However, it's wise to consider potential safety aspects before incorporating any new supplement into your diet:

Lack of regulation: GLP-1 products are dietary supplements and aren't subject to the same stringent quality control and testing as prescription medications. This lack of oversight can lead to inconsistencies in ingredient quality and potency and even the presence of undisclosed contaminants that could pose health risks.
Drug interactions: Certain ingredients commonly found in these supplements, such as berberine or green tea extract, can potentially interact with prescription medications you might be taking. These interactions could either reduce the effectiveness of your prescribed drugs or increase the risk of side effects.
Gastrointestinal issues: Many GLP-1 supplements contain high amounts of fiber or other compounds that, especially when introduced suddenly or in large doses, can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating, gas, and digestive upset.
Misleading marketing: The allure of a natural fix can sometimes lead to misleading marketing claims. Relying on unproven supplements might delay individuals from seeking or adhering to evidence-based medical treatments for conditions like diabetes or obesity, potentially leading to adverse health outcomes.

Thus, it's always best to consult your doctor before starting any GLP-1 supplement. Your healthcare provider can assess your health status, review your current medications, and provide personalised advice on whether a GLP-1 supplement is safe and appropriate for you.

Do you know why fitness experts recommend The Good Bug’s Metabolically Lean probiotic to achieve weight loss goals? Watch the video below to uncover the secret.

Now that you've got a grip on the safety of GLP-1 supplements, let’s compare them with prescription medications to see where they stand in the big picture!

GLP-1 supplements vs. prescription medications

The debate between GLP-1 supplements and prescription GLP-1 receptor agonists is still ongoing. Which one should you choose? Let's examine their key differences so that you can make an informed decision:

Mechanism of action

GLP-1 supplements stimulate your body's own GLP-1 production indirectly or subtly mimic some of its effects through various ingredients.
Prescription medications like Ozempic, Rybelsus, Victoza, Saxenda, and Mounjaro are synthetic molecules that are structurally similar to natural GLP-1 and directly bind to and activate GLP-1 receptors in your body.

Efficacy

GLP-1 supplements lack extensive, robust clinical trial data demonstrating significant and reliable increases in GLP-1 levels or substantial benefits for blood sugar control and weight loss.
Prescription GLP-1 receptor agonists have undergone rigorous, large-scale clinical trials showing significant efficacy in lowering blood glucose levels, promoting substantial weight loss, and even offering cardiovascular benefits in some cases.

Regulation

GLP-1 supplements, as dietary supplements, are not subject to the same stringent testing, approval processes, and manufacturing standards as prescription drugs by regulatory bodies.
Prescription GLP-1 receptor agonists are subject to rigorous testing, review, and approval by regulatory agencies to ensure their safety and effectiveness before they can be prescribed and marketed.

Dosage and consistency

GLP-1 supplements often have variable dosages of active ingredients, and the consistency of these ingredients can differ between batches and brands.
Prescription GLP-1 receptor agonists are manufactured with standardised and controlled dosages, ensuring consistent and predictable effects when used as directed.

Medical supervision

GLP-1 supplements are typically purchased and used without medical supervision or guidance.
Prescription GLP-1 receptor agonists require a prescription from a healthcare professional who will assess your individual needs, determine the appropriate dosage, monitor your response, and manage any potential side effects.

Choosing between GLP-1 supplements and prescription medications goes beyond personal preference. It’s about understanding the difference in effectiveness, regulation, dosage precision, and the advantage of professional oversight in achieving meaningful health outcomes.

Thinking of a natural route to boost your GLP-1? Here's how you can do it through your diet!

How to naturally boost GLP-1 levels?

Your body has its own mechanisms for producing GLP-1 naturally. Instead of relying on the uncertain benefits of supplements, focusing on a well-balanced diet is a proven way to stimulate your gut's L-cells to release this vital hormone in response to the food you eat.

Here's how you can naturally boost your GLP-1 levels through your dietary choices:

Prioritise fiber-rich foods: Foods high in soluble fiber, such as oats, barley, apples, citrus fruits, and legumes, are excellent for promoting GLP-1 release. Beneficial gut bacteria ferment these fibers, leading to the production of short-chain fatty acids like butyrate, which directly stimulate GLP-1 secretion.
Include lean protein: Protein sources like lentils, chickpeas, fish, and chicken can also stimulate GLP-1 release. The breakdown of certain amino acids from protein in the gut can trigger the secretion of this hormone.
Embrace healthy fats: Unsaturated fats, found in avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, have been shown to promote GLP-1 release. Incorporating these healthy fats into your meals can contribute to better GLP-1 production.
Don't forget probiotic foods: Fermented foods like yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi can contribute to a healthy and diverse gut microbiome. A balanced gut environment is more efficient at producing metabolites that support GLP-1 release.
Consider meal timing and composition: Eating regular, balanced meals that include a combination of fiber, protein, and healthy fats can optimise your body's natural GLP-1 response after eating.

Using over-the-counter GLP-1 supplements might be tempting. However, the current scientific evidence does not strongly support their ability to boost GLP-1 levels in a way that meaningfully impacts your health.

Instead, focus on prescription GLP-1 receptor agonist medications or encourage your body to produce this hormone through consistent healthy eating and lifestyle habits.

Explore The Good Bug's science-backed probiotic solutions to further support your journey towards a healthy gut and overall metabolic well-being. Nurturing your gut from within can be a powerful step towards a healthier you. Book a free consultation with our experts and choose the right product for your needs!