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If you’ve heard about weight loss injections like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, you’re not alone. These medications mimic a hormone called GLP-1, which helps suppress appetite, regulate blood sugar, and promote weight loss.


But what if your body already makes GLP-1—and you just need to support it?

At Clark Wellness, we believe in working with your body, not replacing what it can do naturally. That’s why we focus on stimulating your body’s own GLP-1 using science-backed, functional strategies that don’t require a lifelong prescription.


Let’s explore five powerful ways to support natural GLP-1 production—no injections required.


🧬 What Is GLP-1?

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone released from the gut in response to food. It helps:

✅ Regulate appetite and reduce cravings

✅ Slow stomach emptying

✅ Balance blood sugar

✅ Signal fullness to your brain


Synthetic GLP-1 drugs mimic this effect—but they can come with downsides like repaid weight regain once stopped, fatigue, headaches, nausea, muscle loss, and life-long use needed. Instead, we help patients enhance their own GLP-1 levels naturally.


🌿 The Top 5 Natural GLP-1 Boosters

1. Berberine – The Natural Like-Metformin


Berberine is a plant compound found in herbs like Berberis vulgaris. It can activate AMPK, a metabolic enzyme that improves insulin sensitivity, blood sugar regulation, and fat metabolism.

🔬 Research shows that berberine may increase GLP-1 secretion via the gut microbiome, making it a smart natural alternative to synthetic medications.

💊 Typical dose: 500 mg with meals, 2–3 times daily


2. Butyrate – Feed Your Gut, Fuel Your Hormones

Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid produced when your gut bacteria ferment dietary fiber. It may play a major role in:

  • Reducing inflammation

  • Supporting gut barrier integrity

  • Stimulating the release of GLP-1 and PYY, another appetite-reducing hormone


You can support butyrate production by eating prebiotic fibers (like green bananas, cooked/cooled potatoes, and oats) or by taking sodium butyrate or tributyrin supplements.


3. Calocurb – The Bitter Boost for Satiety

Calocurb (Amarasate™) is an extract from New Zealand hops that stimulates bitter taste receptors in your gut. This bitter signal may trigger the release of GLP-1 and CCK, promoting satiety and reducing calorie intake.

🌿 Studies show that Calocurb can significantly reduce hunger and food intake when taken before meals.

💊 Suggested dose: 100 mg before lunch or dinner


4. Akkermansia – The Gut Bacteria That Boosts GLP-1 Naturally

Akkermansia muciniphila is a beneficial gut bacterium that lives in your intestinal lining. It’s one of the most exciting discoveries in gut health, thanks to its impact on:

  • Blood sugar control

  • Metabolic inflammation

  • Appetite hormone secretion


Studies show that higher levels of Akkermansia may support natural GLP-1 and PYY secretion, helping your body regulate hunger more efficiently.


🧃 How to support Akkermansia:

  • Eat polyphenol-rich foods (pomegranate, cranberry, green tea)

  • Include prebiotics like inulin and pectin

  • Consider pasteurized Akkermansia supplements (now available from a few trusted brands)


5. Lifestyle Habits That Support GLP-1 Naturally

Sometimes the simplest strategies are the most powerful.

These habits are free, accessible, and clinically supported to help stimulate natural GLP-1 production:

Eat more protein – Especially whey or plant-based proteins, which trigger gut hormone release

Incorporate intermittent fasting – Fasting cycles can enhance GLP-1 signaling

Exercise regularly – High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and resistance training stimulate appetite-regulating hormones

Add resistant starches – Cooked/cooled potatoes, green bananas, and legumes nourish the gut microbiome

Use healthy fats – Omega-3s reduce inflammation and support hormone health


⚖️ Why Natural GLP-1 Support Matters

Unlike injections, natural strategies don’t shut down digestion, trigger severe nausea, or lead to muscle loss. They may support:

  • Preservation of lean body mass

  • Long-term blood sugar and appetite regulation

  • Better metabolic flexibility

  • A more sustainable and holistic approach to weight loss


At Clark Wellness, we combine natural GLP-1 boosters with personalized protocols, and when appropriate, prescriptions to support energy, muscle maintenance, and long-term success.


🔗 Ready to Get Started with Natural Support?


We’ve created a custom supplement plan with our favorite GLP-1-supporting tools on Fullscript.👉 Click here to view the full Natural GLP-1 Support Protocol

You’ll find carefully selected options for:

  • Berberine

  • Butyrate

  • Bitter plant extracts

  • Probiotics (including Akkermansia)

  • Metabolic support nutrients


All available with professional-grade quality and convenience. Please consult with your provider before starting any regimen or suggested recommendations. GLP1 medications can be life saving for those with Diabetes and risks verses benefits need to be discussed thoroughly with your health care provider. You should not stop or defer medical treatment based on this information.


💡 Final Thoughts

If you’re considering a weight loss injection—or want to avoid one—don’t overlook what your body is capable of. Supporting natural GLP-1 function through gut health, nutrition, and targeted supplements may be the safer, smarter path.


📲 Call or text us at 254-227-5851 or schedule a discovery call to learn more.🌐


Let’s support your metabolism—naturally, safely, and sustainably.


⚠️ Disclaimer
The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication, supplement, or weight loss strategy—especially if you have a medical condition or are currently taking prescription medications. Results may vary based on individual health status and adherence to recommendations. Results are not guaranteed and there is no refund on any supplements or services.
 
 
 

🧠 Did You Know?

The Truth About GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss GLP-1 receptor agonists—like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro—have exploded in popularity for weight loss. Originally created for type 2 diabetes, these medications now dominate headlines for helping patients shed pounds quickly.

But what’s not being talked about enough?

The fact that for most users, GLP-1s are a lifelong medication—and that a significant portion of the weight lost comes from lean muscle, not just fat. This really means you should take this for the rest of your life.


GLP1 alternatives
GLP1 alternatives

🧬 What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1s mimic a natural hormone that helps regulate blood sugar and appetite. By slowing gastric emptying and signaling satiety to the brain, they lead to reduced calorie intake and rapid weight loss. But here’s the catch: Up to 39% of the weight lost may come from lean body mass, including skeletal muscle ([1]).


⚖️ Muscle Loss: The Hidden Cost A 2021 study in Obesity found that with semaglutide (Wegovy), patients lost an average of 14.9% of total body weight—but 39% of that loss was lean mass ([1]).

That’s concerning, because muscle:

• Is critical for metabolism

• Supports blood sugar stability

• Protects against aging and injury

• Affects physical strength and energy Losing muscle slows your resting metabolic rate, meaning you burn fewer calories at rest—even if you weigh less.


🔁 What Happens If You Stop Taking GLP-1s? Immediate Weight regain!!!

The STEP 1 trial follow-up showed that patients regained two-thirds of their lost weight within a year after stopping semaglutide ([2]).


That’s because the medication controls appetite—but doesn’t fix underlying metabolic issues or retrain the brain and body for long-term change.


⚠️ Common Side Effects of GLP-1s:

• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

• Gallbladder issues

Fatigue or hair thinning

Nutrient deficiencies from eating too little

Muscle wasting if not counteracted with strength training and protein intake


Possible side effects: Increase risk of Cancer, blindness, permanent stomach and GI paralysis etc.


💊 What About Phentermine?

Unlike GLP-1s, phentermine has been around for decades and has a long track record of safety when used appropriately.

• FDA-approved in 1959

• Typically prescribed for short-term use (12–16 weeks), but often used off-label in longer-term, low-dose protocols

• Mechanism: Suppresses appetite via the central nervous system (norepinephrine release)

• Does not cause muscle wasting

• No long-term risk of weight rebound if paired with sustainable lifestyle support A 2019 review in Obesity found that phentermine is safe and effective, even when used long-term under medical supervision ([3]).

In fact, it is still one of the most widely prescribed weight loss medications in the U.S., with fewer gastrointestinal or metabolic side effects compared to GLP-1s. Unlike GLP-1s, phentermine does not slow digestion, shrink muscle tissue, or require lifelong use to maintain results. However, this is a stimulant, and it is not for everyone.


🧩 Do the Risks Outweigh the Benefits? For some patients, GLP-1s are a helpful tool—but they must be approached with eyes wide open:

• They reduce hunger, but can also reduce muscle

• They work well short-term, but often require lifelong use

• They don’t correct root causes of weight gain (insulin resistance, stress, toxins, gut health, hormone imbalances) and they are quite expensive.


✅ A Functional Medicine Alternative At Clark Wellness, we take a root-cause approach to weight loss. Our focus is on:

• Fat loss, not muscle loss

• Preserving metabolism and energy

• Improving insulin, cortisol, thyroid, and gut health

• Personalized nutrition and lifestyle protocols

• Strategic use of safe medications when appropriate (including low-dose phentermine under supervision)


💡 Final Thoughts GLP-1 medications are powerful—but not perfect. If you’re considering starting (or coming off) Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro, it’s critical to understand the full picture. Muscle is your metabolic currency. Don’t lose it in the name of quick weight loss. If you’re looking for a safer, more sustainable strategy—with or without medication—we’re here to help you do it right.


Everyone should discuss with their own health care provider to determine which tool is the best for their weight loss journey. This article is not intended to treat or diagnose any condition. This is for educational purposes only.

📞 Call us at 254-227-5851 or visit www.clarkwellnesstx.com to schedule a discovery call.

📚 References

  1. Bolvig, A.K., et al. (2024). Changes in body composition in individuals with type 2 diabetes and obesity treated with semaglutide. Obesity (Silver Spring).PubMed Abstract

  2. Wilding, J.P.H., et al. (2022). Weight regain and cardiometabolic effects after withdrawal of semaglutide: The STEP 1 trial extension. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism.PubMed AbstractFull Text – Wiley Online Library

  3. Hendricks, E.J., et al. (2019). Safety and effectiveness of longer-term phentermine use: Clinical outcomes from a retrospective study. Obesity (Silver Spring).PubMed AbstractFull Text – Wiley Online Library

 
 
 

Let’s be honest.

Summer vacations are meant for making memories, not tracking macros. But no one wants to come home feeling bloated, sluggish, or like they undid months of progress in a week.


Here’s the good news: you can enjoy every sunset, every gelato, every lazy beach day—without coming back five pounds heavier and full of regret.

You just need a strategy that doesn’t scream “I’m on a diet.”


So, if you’re packing for vacation and wondering how to stay on track (without being that person ordering grilled chicken at the BBQ), this post is for you.



🧠 1. It’s Not About Willpower—It’s About Structure


We don’t gain weight on vacation because we’re weak. We gain weight because we leave all structure behind. No morning routine. No hydration goals. Just vibes.


Instead of saying, “I’ll start over when I get back,” try this mindset:


💬 “I’m still me—just on vacation.”

So, yes to the croissant. And yes to walking the cobblestone streets for two hours after. Not because you have to, but because it feels good to honor your body even while you’re off the clock.



🍳 2. Win the Morning, Win the Day


If you only commit to one thing, let it be this: start your day with protein + fiber.


Here’s why:

Pastries and pancakes in the morning spike your blood sugar and set you up for the crash-crave-snack cycle.


🔁 Protein and fiber, on the other hand, keep your blood sugar stable and your cravings in check. You’ll feel full longer, have better energy, and make better choices at dinner—without even trying.


Easy Vacation Breakfast Wins:

• Eggs + avocado toast

• Protein smoothie (bring a single-serve blender and collagen packets!)

• Greek yogurt + berries + chia seeds

• Omelet with veggies (and yes, get the cheese if you love it)



💦 3. Hydration Is a Game-Changer (And an Appetite Tamer)


Beach days + salty snacks + alcohol = the perfect storm for dehydration. And dehydration often masquerades as hunger.


💡 Hack: Bring a reusable water bottle with electrolytes or a pinch of mineral salt. Drink a glass of water before each meal and before your morning coffee.


Bonus: This also helps beat jet lag and keeps your digestion moving (vacation constipation is real!).



🍷 4. Sip Smarter (Alcohol Without the Aftermath)


No need to skip the cocktails—but being strategic helps avoid the dreaded vacation bloat.


Try this:

• Alternate every alcoholic drink with water or sparkling water

• Choose clear spirits + soda + lime over sugary mixers

• Stop 2–3 drinks in to avoid the sleep sabotage and next-day cravings


👀 Fun fact: Poor sleep from alcohol lowers leptin (your “I’m full” hormone) and raises ghrelin (your “I’m starving” hormone). That’s why a hangover = bottomless fries.



🚶‍♀️ 5. Walk It Off (Literally)


You don’t need a gym. You need movement that feels like vacation.

Think beach walks, swimming, paddleboarding, exploring on foot, or dancing at a live music spot.


Even 20 minutes of movement after a meal improves blood sugar and digestion. No strict workouts required.


📱 App Tip: use your BodySite at home exercises future so you can stay active while away from home.


🧳 6. Pack Your Health “Non-Negotiables”


Instead of overthinking what not to eat, think about what to bring that keeps you grounded:

• Digestive enzymes or activated charcoal (for meals that hit hard)

• Electrolyte packets (like LMNT or Redmond Re-Lyte)

• Magnesium citrate (for sleep and keeping things regular)

• Protein powder or collagen (for smoothies or coffee boosts)

• Fiber support like psyllium husk or flaxseed (gut loves it)


Your gut and energy levels will thank you.



💚 Final Thoughts: Vacation Should Recharge You, Not Deplete You


The best part of vacation? You have more time to rest, move, sleep, and eat well. You’re out of your routine, yes—but you’re also free from rush hour, emails, and daily stressors.


So don’t wait until you get home to take care of yourself.


✨ Fuel your body with good food

✨ Move in ways that feel joyful

✨ Enjoy every indulgence—without shame


Because you deserve to feel good—not just at home, but everywhere life takes you.



Want more tips on how to support metabolism, energy, and hormones—without giving up your favorite foods?

Follow @ClarkWellnessTX or book a visit to get a customized plan that fits your real life.


(254) 2275851


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