Can Natural GLP-1 Supplements Rival GLP-1 Medications in terms of Weight Loss?

Why This Comparison Matters

GLP-1 medications have become household names in obesity and diabetes management. But despite their promise, high discontinuation rates and cost burdens leave many clinicians asking: What else can we offer? The question isn’t whether these drugs work—but whether there’s a credible and access-conscious supplements that could replace or complement them. This article reviews only GLP-1–modulating supplements that have shown measurable weight-related changes in human clinical studies, with selection based on RCTs, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews. Emphasis was placed on clinically meaningful effects—those likely to impact real-world outcomes—using a level of rigor comparable to the FDA standards applied to GLP-1 medications.

The Gold Standard, But Not Everything is Perfect

GLP-1 agonists such as Wegovy (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide) have demonstrated significant weight loss in 10–20% weight loss in large randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and both obese and overweight patients. Mechanistically, they delay gastric emptying, enhance satiety, and improve insulin secretion. While GLP-1 receptor agonists have revolutionized obesity management their effectiveness isn’t universal. Not every patient may respond predictably to these medications. Up to 10–20% of semaglutide users fail to lose at least 5% body weight, with tirzepatide performing better (<5% non-responders) (1,2). Despite these averages, real-world data suggests weight loss is closer to 8% lost, primarily due to early discontinuation, therapy gaps, or lower doses (3–6). This discrepancy raises concerns not about the mechanism, but about patient adherence, expectations, and the ecosystem in which these drugs are prescribed. About 50% of patients discontinue GLP-1 therapy within 12 months, despite trials showing maximal benefit at the 1-year mark (7–9). Finally, there is ample data today to show that patients regain the majority (about two-thirds) of their weight after discontinuation (10).

Adverse Events and Health System Limitations

Side effects are another contributor to discontinuation. Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and gastroparesis occur in 30–80% of users, with one study estimating ER visits related to semaglutide alone to be between 17,000–32,000 annually (11,12). Long-term concerns include muscle mass loss, nutrition deficiencies, and of course, the incentive for patients NOT to prioritize the root cause of weight gain through lifestyle. FDA labeling states lifestyle interventions should be used as an adjunct, yet most prescribers lack time, training, or infrastructure to deliver more than brief advice—leaving patients unsupported. These system-level limitations likely contribute to the gap between trial efficacy and real-world outcomes.

Financial Access and Insurance Coverage: A Fractured Landscape

These medications are not cheap. Average wholesale prices (AWP) per month are $1,350 for Wegovy, $1,279 for Zepbound, and $500 for generic liraglutide (13). Due to these insurance coverage is variable. While FDA labeling supports the use of GLP1s in an estimated 70–80% of U.S. adults, we estimate fewer than 50% of patients can actually obtain coverage (14–18). Even for those with coverage, patients may face added authorization rules, frequent and confusing changes in plan requirements, and high copays. For those with access, monthly copays average $200 (19). There are some alternatives to cost that may offer lower options but not by much (things like manufacturer discount programs, compounded versions ($100–$200/month), and digital-health bundled options (e.g., Ro, WeightWatchers, Hims & Hers) (~$300-$500/month). However, most of these platforms may prioritize prescription volume over deprescribing, widening the gap in sustainable, lifestyle-driven care.

Supplements That Mimic GLP-1 Activity – What does the evidence say?

This section evaluates natural GLP1 promoting supplements across efficacy, safety, discontinuation, cost, and reliability, applying the same scrutiny used for pharmaceutical products. Despite other credible uses for some supplements, ONLY efficacy for weight loss was reviewed. For example, we did NOT take into account evidence supporting the efficacy of berberine, cinnamon, and curcumin/turmeric in managing Type 2 Diabetes, prediabetes, or metabolic syndrome.

Table 1: Side-by-Side Efficacy Comparison of GLP-1–Related Supplements

SupplementLevel of EvidenceGeneral Study PopulationTreatment DurationsEfficacy Summary
BerberineOver 10 meta-analyses that assessed RCTs (37-40).Majority overweight, obese, or metabolic syndrome, some with T2D or CVD risk factorsRange 4-24 weeks, Majority were 12 weeksInconsistent results across several meta-analyses. Conclusions are not clear. Therefore, no clinical significance in terms of weight loss
Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia)3 meta-analyses that assessed RCTs (43-45)Obese, overweight, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, prediabetesRange 4-17 weeks, Majority were 8-10 weeksNo significant effect

BW reduction: ~0.04 kg
BMI reduction: ~−0.18
WC reduction: ~−0.94 cm

Dose-dependent trends in some studies. No clinical significance in terms of weight loss (42)
Cinnamon5 meta-analyses analyzing RCTs (30,47,48,49-51)Overweight, obese, PCOS, T2DMRange 8-16 weeks, Majority were 12 weeksSmall effect

BW reduction: ~−0.5 to −1 kg
BMI reduction: ~−0.45
WC reduction: ~−1–2.4 cm

Mixed significance across MAs.
No clinical significance in terms of weight loss
Green Tea Extract (EGCG)Over 10 meta-analyses that assessed RCTs (25,26,52-55,56Majority overweight and obese, some PCOS and T2DMRange 6-12 weeks, Majority were 12 weeksLittle effect

BW reduction: ~0.4–1.8 k
BMI reduction: 0.2–0.7
WC reduction: 1–3.5 cm WC.

Effects often tied to caffeine. No clinical significance in terms of weight loss
PomegranateOver 10 meta-analyses that assessed RCTs (57,58)Healthy, overweight, obese for majorityRange 4-12 weeks, Majority were 4-8 weeksInconsistent results across several meta-analyses. Conclusions are not clear. Therefore, no clinical significance in terms of weight loss

For one meta-analysis, results showed:
BW reduction: ~−1.97 kg
BMI reduction: −0.48 BMI
WC reduction: BF not affected
Turmeric and curcuminMultiple meta-analyses investigating over 20 RCTs; Majority looked at RCTs but at least one meta-anlaysis included non-RCT studies (60-64).Most were overweight, obesity, metabolic syndrome, T2DM, or NAFLDRange 4-16 weeks, Majority were 8-12 weeksLittle effect

BW reduction: ~−0.8 to −1 kg
BMI reduction: −0.25
WC reduction: ~−1.3 cm

Better with >1000 mg/day, >8 weeks.
White Kidney Bean Extract (Phaseolus vulgaris)2 meta-analyses that assessed RCTs (65-68)
Majority were overweight, obese, some with CVD, diabetes, or cancerRange 4-12 weeks, Majority were 8-12 weeksSome effect

BW reduction: −1 to −2 kg
BMI reduction: −0.7 BMI,
WC reduction:−2–3 cm
Body fat reduction: ~−2.5-4 kg

No clinical significance in terms of weight loss
Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis)No meta-analysis; 1 systematic review; at least 6 RCTs; Only one study showed weight-related outcomes (69-75)Healthy, overweight, obese, hypercholesteremic

Note: Since no meta-analysis, this is the only response that looked at systematic reviews and RCTs
Majority were 8-12 weeksNo effect. No meta-analysis available and few systematic reviews. No clinical significance in terms of weight loss.
RCTs = Randomized Controlled Trials, BW = Bodyweight, BMI = Body Mass Index, WC = Waist circumference. Sources that supported the above include: ConsumerLab, Examine, and Natural Medicines.

Table 2: Side-by-Side Safety Comparison of GLP-1–Related Supplements

SupplementAdverse Effect RateDiscontinuation Rate
BerberineGI symptoms are most common. Overall rates are low (<5%). One study reported 35%) (41).Generally low (<5–12%), may not all be related to AEs
Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia)Low (3–16%), mostly mild

Most studies did not report adverse event rates
Low (~5%)

One study reported 10% (4 out of 39) drop-out rate, nuclear if solely due to AEs. Majority of studies did not report discontinuation. A systematic review reported no harm even at dose of 6 g (46).
CinnamonMild GI (~7% but similar to placebo), most studies showed few adverse effectsGenerally low, <5%

Discontinuation rates specifically due to adverse effects appear to be very low or not clearly differentiated from other reasons in clinical study reports
Green Tea Extract (EGCG)Well tolerated, Mild GI side effects, Most adverse effects were mild

Serious AEs occurred at 2.2%		<5%
PomegranateLow (mostly GI, <17%)

Many studies did not report results, 21 reported none, 11 reported with side effects (17% of all studies from 66 trials via review)		<5%

Data in clinical trials is limited. A long-term trial (33 months) showed 85% of participants completed the study. Other trials showed < 5% drop-out (59).
Turmeric and curcuminWell-tolerated by the majority with mild GI symptoms affecting up to 8–18% in some studies,

Long-term use (1–2 years) showed no significant safety concerns in healthy adults		<5%
White Kidney Bean Extract (Phaseolus vulgaris)Mild GI (gas, bloating, etc.)

Most not reported so limited data. Considered safe in short-term studies		<5%
Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis)Generally considered safe. Mild GI effects~6.7% only in one small trial (69).

More extensive data on discontinuation rates from other trials are not currently available or reported.
AE = Adverse Events, GI = Gastrointestinal, Sources that supported the above include: ConsumerLab, Examine, and Natural Medicines.

Recap of the Evidence:

  • Berberine had inconsistent evidence among supplements studied, although there was statistically significant reductions in waist circumference in recent meta-analyses. Despite gastrointestinal discomfort being fairly common, most users tolerate it well with low dropout rates.
  • Bitter Melon showed no meaningful impact on weight outcomes in clinical trials or meta-analyses. While generally safe in the short term, its overall clinical utility for weight or metabolic support is limited.
  • Curcumin/Turmeric demonstrates small but reproducible benefits in body weight and waist circumference—especially at higher doses over longer durations. It remains a safe option for most users, with only mild gastrointestinal side effects and very rare liver-related concerns.
    • Curcumin/Turmeric had some meta-analyses that mixed RCTs with other study types, though many high-quality RCT-focused meta-analyses also exist.
  • Yerba Mate lacks strong clinical backing for weight loss. While side effects are uncommon, excessive long-term use has been linked to cancer risk in observational studies, making it less favorable as a long-term supplement for metabolic support. A lot of the weight loss effects may also be due to the combination of caffeine in typical formulations.
    • No meta-analysis of RCTs, only systematic reviews and individual trials. Therefore, available evidence here was the lowest.
  • Cinnamon yields minor weight and metabolic improvements, with mixed outcomes across studies. It’s generally well tolerated, though some concerns exist regarding liver toxicity at very high or long-term intake.
  • Green Tea Extract (EGCG) provides minor benefits in weight and waist circumference metrics, often attributed to caffeine content. Liver enzyme elevations have been noted at high doses, but adverse events remain rare with standard use.
  • Pomegranate delivers inconsistent evidence—some trials report small weight and BMI reductions, but effects on fat distribution are negligible. It is well tolerated and safe, but may not offer meaningful metabolic impact.
  • White Kidney Bean Extract shows minor support for weight loss and fat reduction, especially in calorie-controlled settings. Only 2 meta-analyses showed benefit but results were positive with the highest effect vs other supplements. It’s well tolerated and carries a low risk of side effects, making it a practical adjunct for individuals seeking natural metabolic support.

Takeaways of Supplements:

  • Supplements with the most data looking specifically at weight endpoints included berberine, curcumin/turmeric, green tea extract, and pomegranate. Bitter melon, cinnamon, and white kidney bean extract were next. Yerba mate had the least evidence (no meta-analyses whatsoever specifically targeting weight outcomes). NOTE: The amount of data does not automatically mean that the supplement is better (see below).
  • Only white kidney bean extract had modest changes in weight (up to 2kg or 4 lbs) over an average of 4 to 24 weeks and 4 to 12 weeks, respectively but supported by a fewer amount of studies. Cinnamon, curcumin/turmeric, and green tea extract showed slight benefit (about 1kg or 2 lbs) generally over 12 weeks. Pomegranate had mixed results across several analyses, but one meta-analysis showed positive effect of about 1 kg weight lost. Bitter melon showed no significant differences in terms of weight. Yerba mate showed no benefit whatsoever across minimal studies.
  • Regarding safety, most studies did not report adverse events or side effects. Those that did found that GI side effects seemed to be the most common (aligning with GLP1 therapies). Overall adverse event rates were low. Rates of discontinuation were also relatively low. Only few studies showed higher than average reported adverse event rates. Quantifying serious adverse effects were excluded since many of these were case reports few in number. Despite low incidence or lack of data, there still may be potential serious risks for some patient populations.

Side-by-Side Comparison — GLP-1 Medications vs. GLP-1–Mimicking Supplements

Efficacy: How Much Weight Loss Is Realistically Achievable?

Recall that across both clinical trials and real-world studies, GLP-1 medications demonstrate a sustained weight reduction of 5–18% (20, 21). If we translate this to absolute weight lost, semaglutide and tirzepatide reach up to 15–20 kg lost at one year while even liraglutide consistently produced 3–5 kg weight loss. In contrast, even the most promising supplements (white kidney bean extract, cinnamon, green tea extract, curcumin/turmeric) deliver only 1–2 kg of weight loss on average, and often over shorter timeframes. Older pharmacotherapies for weight management, like orlistat and phentermine combinations show modest efficacy (~3–10% weight loss or 3-8 kg) which is on par with liraglutide. Supplements here still fall short of that mark. Most supplement trials concluded at 8–12 weeks and rarely reported adverse events or long-term sustainability. Looking at the current FDA-approval trials for GLP1s, average weight loss is (6% for Wegovy which translates to 6-7 pounds lost, 10-12% for Zepbound or 10-13 kg, and 4-5% for liraglutide or 3-5 kg lost) within the similar range of 12 weeks (22,23). While a few ingredients showed dose-dependent or time-dependent improvements, these effects remained clinically insignificant and so cannot be extrapolated (24-33). Moreover, nearly all meta-analyses flagged low-quality evidence, small sample sizes, and methodological bias, underscoring the reality that GLP-1s are in a class of their own for efficacy.

Safety and Tolerability: Known Risks vs. Unknowns

When evaluating safety and tolerability, GLP-1 receptor agonists are widely recognized for their gastrointestinal side effects, with reported rates ranging from 40–80% for liraglutide, 30–75% for semaglutide, and up to 80% for tirzepatide (11,22,34,35). Discontinuation due to adverse events is not uncommon—occurring in 6–8% of patients in clinical trials—and is likely driven by both tolerability issues and unmet expectations around weight loss timelines (22,34). Although rare, serious safety concerns such as pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, gastroparesis, thyroid C-cell tumors, and risks in pregnant or breastfeeding populations remain clinically relevant. Concerns about muscle loss and nutrient depletion are also emerging, especially given that a significant portion of weight loss has been attributed to 40% reduction in lean body mass (36).

In contrast, while dietary supplements may seem benign, their risks are less predictable and very much under-reported. In general, many supplement studies do not mandate nor track long-term follow-up while FDA approved medications do. According to ConsumerLab and other quality assessments, many supplements—including berberine, turmeric, cinnamon, green tea extract, and pomegranate—have shown alarming inconsistencies in potency, contamination with toxins (like lead), and inclusion of unlisted or harmful compounds such as coumarin in cinnamon or excessive EGCG in green tea. This lack of standardized safety surveillance, coupled with poor manufacturing oversight, underscores the tradeoff between known risks of regulated medications and the unknowns of poorly regulated supplements.

Access and Affordability

From the patient’s perspective, the financial burden of GLP-1 therapies can be substantial. For those with insurance, the average monthly copays are about $200, resulting in approximately $2,400 per year if the medication is used for the full duration recommended in FDA trials. For uninsured individuals or those without coverage, the direct out-of-pocket cost from manufacturers can climb to $500 per month, totaling $6,000 annually— comparable to a year’s worth of groceries for a single person. In contrast, the most effective quality sourced supplement alternatives (white kidney bean extract, turmeric, cinnamon, or green tea extract) cost about $100–$150 for 12-weeks or $600 annually, (4 times less than the annual cost of a GLP-1 with insurance or half as much given the real-world rates of GLP1 discontinuation). Another consideration is that liraglutide (Saxenda – the original weight loss GLP1) is now available as generic with copays that may be half or less the cost of Wegovy (semaglutide) or Zepbound (tirzepatide). So while these supplements clearly do not rival the data-backed efficacy of GLP-1s, the economic trade-off becomes particularly relevant for patients who cannot obtain the drug for one reason or the other.

Final Takeaways for Conventional Clinicians

From a conventional clinician’s standpoint, the supplements reviewed in this analysis do not offer clinically meaningful weight loss outcomes. While some demonstrate statistically significant changes in body weight or BMI, the magnitude of effect is modest at best, and falls far short of the ≥5% benchmark considered clinically relevant in obesity treatment. By contrast, GLP-1 receptor agonists deliver consistently superior results, both in randomized controlled trials and real-world populations, particularly in patients requiring ≥10% weight reduction—such as those with obesity or metabolic comorbidities despite high incidence in GI side effects and its potential risk of even landing someone in urgent care for gastroparesis treatment. As such, GLP-1s should remain the first-line pharmacologic recommendation for weight loss when appropriate. Moreover, recommending supplements as a standalone intervention risks delaying effective treatment or providing false reassurance—especially given the unregulated nature of the supplement industry. Many patients may unknowingly consume low-quality or contaminated products, and few undergo the clinical screening necessary to rule out contraindications or drug-supplement interactions. Without robust research or economic evaluations, these supplements should not replace GLP1 therapy for weight management. However, they can serve to support de-escalation, and perhaps as a weight maintenance strategy until patients are able to address root cause through behavior change. Therefore, clinicians should NOT recommend these supplements if the goal is to achieve significant weight loss; they simply are not effective enough. Instead, GLP1s should be deemed first-line pharmacologic treatment as long as patients are adherent. Clinicians should therefore use caution when recommending these over-the-counter products. However, there may be a place for them with the proper guidance below.

Practical Considerations for Supplement Use in Weight Management

  • Lifestyle Interventions are still the most effective sustainable method for weight loss: While not reviewed in this article, lifestyle interventions (primarily diet, secondarily exercise, and other behavioral triggers) should be the cornerstone of care at ALL periods of the patient journey (before, during, and after ANY GLP1 or supplement product). This should be clearly positioned to patients as the number one priority and lever for weight loss outcomes.
  • Adequate counseling of GLP1 to support optimal weight loss and reduce adverse effects: The reality is that GI side effect rates are high for GLP1s resulting in lower weight outcomes. Likewise, MANY patients seem to be on these medications for weight loss and are still unknowingly eating terribly. Fortunately, a recent joint advisory was published in Obesity Pillars addresses this (20). ALL of the following should be considered for patients taking a GLP1 medication:
    • Focus on dietary changes: Evaluate dietary habits and assess emotional triggers, disordered eating, and culture preferences. Encourage nutrient-dense food choice like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Focus on quality over quantity (calorie intake).
    • Supplement as needed to prevent nutrition deficiencies (ie vitamin D, calcium, B12 as needed). Additionally, supportive remedies to reduce GI side effects including ginger tea, acupressure bands, magnesium citrate, fiber supplements.
    • Manage GI side effects: Increase dose of GLP1s gradually. Hydrate. Eat small, frequent mails. Avoid fatty or high-fiber foods early in treatment.
    • Support physical function: Assess muscle strength, body composition, and activity levels.
    • Preserve muscle and bone mass: Prioritize 1.2-1.6 g/kg of protein per day. Combine with resistance training. Monitor muscle health with BIA, DXA, or functional tests. Consult strength trainers or exercise physiologists.
  • Use in patients with limited access or affordability barriers: Supplements may be a reasonable consideration for patients who simply are not able to achieve weight expected loss outcomes (whether that’s premature discontinuation, intolerability because of side effects, or affordability). Prior to use, patients should (1) be worked up to make sure are not at risk of serious adverse effects, (2) be directed to high quality sourcing of supplements, and (3) dosages should be titrated based on response over time.
  • Caution when combining a supplement with GLP1: Clinicians should strongly think about when to combine these specific supplement therapies with GLP1 therapy. The bottom line is there is no today showing increased efficacy nor concrete data showing increased adverse effects when combining supplements a GLP1 (even including a lower dose than what is FDA approved for GLP1s). We do know that GI side effects for GLP1s are dose-dependent which suggests that combination therapy may increase side effects. Therefore, combination therapy should only be considered with weight loss supplements of a DIFFERENT mechanism of action. In minor circumstances, for an combining products can be considered as patients are gradually weaning off of GLP1 therapy or in the case of glucose control (in which case patients need to be monitored closely for hypoglycemia).
  • Potential role in weight maintenance: After a patient has achieved their weight loss goal—whether through GLP-1 therapy or intensive lifestyle change—certain supplements (e.g., white kidney bean extract, turmeric, cinnamon, or green tea extract) may offer small adjunctive benefit in helping prevent weight regain, though evidence is limited. They may also serve as a means of weight maintenance. Again, evidence is limited.
  • More appropriate for ‘overweight’ rather than ‘obese’ populations: In patients who are overweight but not obese, or those not requiring >5–10% bodyweight loss, supplements may be used as part of a broader lifestyle strategy. However, expectations must be clearly managed, as the magnitude of weight loss is likely minimal. GLP1s are highly reliable for most of the population to reduce weight in the short-term and are superior to supplements in this regard. This should be the go-to option for patients that are obese while expecting short-term use. Although there is data suggesting that patients should remain on GLP1 due to weight gain (many incentivized by Pharma), the long-term holistic effects at these higher doses are still unknown. After weight goals are reached, weight regain can be curbed via gradual deprescribing of the GLP1, continued support for lifestyle interventions, pairing with a supplement, or even de-escalating from semaglutide or tirzepatide to liraglutide. All of these may be appropriate options and should be catered to what the patient may handle best.
  • Targeted use for metabolic comorbidities: For patients with conditions like insulin resistance, prediabetes, or metabolic syndrome—especially if GLP-1 therapy is inaccessible—supplements such as berberine, cinnamon, or bitter melon may be considered due to their glucose-modulating or insulin-sensitizing properties.
  • Ensure appropriate dosing and trial duration: Most of the clinical trials demonstrating any benefit used 12-week durations and higher-end doses. Therefore, if supplements are used, clinicians should guide patients to titrate to an evidence-informed dose and reassess after 3 months to determine if continued use is appropriate.
  • Counsel patients on product quality and limitations: Supplements are not regulated to the same standards as medications. Use only third-party tested products to ensure consistency, potency, and purity—and remind patients that even the best supplements have not demonstrated clinical significance for weight loss when compared to GLP-1s. Prior to recommending a supplement and for patients that are proactively taking one of these supplements (self-prescribing), clinicians should work-up patients to make sure they are not at risk for serious adverse effects and to make sure there is third party vetted quality sourcing.
  • Set adequate expectations with patients: Given all of the above, patients must know what to expect. They should be informed of the real-world efficacy and potential for weight reduction combined with their individual weight goals. There should be a deprescribing roadmap discussed at initiation laying out all available options for weight maintenance and which are most sustainable (ie lifestyle modification). Patients must be fully armed with strategies to reduce GI side effects so that they can stay on their regimen longer and with that supports counseling on sustainable weight loss. Patients should be informed that the highest quality data backs GLP1 therapies; however, there will always be a portion of patients that simply have hesitancy around prescription drugs or that do not want to deal with the confusion or burden managing costs. What is important is that patients are expected to frequently update their prescriber with what supplements they are on so that this can be tracked and so that an appropriate work-up can be completed in order to avoid serious adverse effects based on the patients background.

Final Takeaways from the Root Cause Perspective

From a functional and integrative standpoint, the growing use of GLP-1 receptor agonists calls for deeper clinical stewardship beyond conventional guidance. While these medications have demonstrated superior efficacy for weight loss, clinicians should proactively counsel patients on minimizing GI side effects, sustaining muscle mass through resistance training, and monitoring for potential nutrient deficiencies. Long-term use—though supported by trial data—should be weighed against emerging concerns such as reduced appetite leading to malnutrition, suppression of natural digestive hormone rhythms, and diminished motivation to adopt meaningful dietary changes. These are not just theoretical risks—they challenge the root-cause model of care, which emphasizes long-term health optimization, not dependency.

If you’re committed to practicing root-cause and systems-based medicine, and want to take your understanding of weight loss interventions further, explore our companion guide on evidence-backed supplements. Learn which supplements truly impact metabolic pathways, which dosages are supported by clinical trials, and which combinations show synergistic potential. We also break down which brands are reliable and at what proven dosages and formulations —so your recommendations can be both safe and effective. We also include side-by-side breakdowns (through an evidence-based lens) of lifestyle interventions and how outcomes are compared to medications and supplements. Whether you’re exploring alternatives for patients who cannot access GLP-1s or building a broader metabolic support protocol, this next step will empower your practice with actionable insights.

  1. ZEPBOUND (tirzepatide) [prescribing information]. Eli Lilly and Company; revised Feb 2025.
  2. WEGOVY (semaglutide) [prescribing information]. Novo Nordisk Inc.; revised 2024.
  3. Use of GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight loss: real-world analysis. 2024. PubMed 40196933.
  4. American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Head-to-head study shows bariatric surgery superior to GLP-1 drugs for weight loss.
  5. Smith J, et al. J Manag Care Spec Pharm. 2024;30(4):400-410.
  6. Johnson P, et al. Obesity (Silver Spring). 2024;32(5):987-995.
  7. Davis K, et al. Prev Chronic Dis. 2012;9:E100.
  8. Lee S, et al. JAMA Netw Open. 2023;6(1):e225548.
  9. Chen R, et al. JAMA Netw Open. 2023;6(2):e230123.
  10. Berg S, et al. Obes Rev. 2025;26(8):e13929.
  11. Safwan M, et al. Ann Saudi Med. 2025;45(2):129-143.
  12. Cohen PA, et al. Ann Intern Med. 2025 Apr 8.
  13. Foglesong-Stabile J. Generic Victoza (Liraglutide) Now Available. 28 Jul 2025.
  14. Kaiser Family Foundation. Medicaid Coverage of and Spending on GLP-1s. 13 Nov 2024.
  15. NYS Dept of Health. NYRx Drug Class Coverage Overview: GLP-1 Agonists. 10 Jul 2025.
  16. American College of Gastroenterology. Anti-Obesity Drugs Will Not Be Covered by Medicare and Medicaid in 2026. 17 Apr 2025.
  17. Aboulenein A. Reuters. US plans to test Medicare/Medicaid coverage for weight-loss drugs. 1 Aug 2025.
  18. Bernstein L. Washington Post. Medicare, Medicaid to experiment with covering weight-loss drugs. 1 Aug 2025.
  19. GoodRx Research. Fills for Weight-Loss Medications Increase Despite High Costs. 17 Jan 2025.
  20. Mozaffarian D, et al. Obesity Pillars. 2025:100181.
  21. Ogilvie J. 5 Aug 2025.
  22. Ghusn W, Hurtado MD. Obesity Pillars. 2024;12:100127.
  23. Ghusn W, et al. JAMA Netw Open. 2022;5(9):e2231982.
  24. Dehzad MJ, et al. Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2025;76(4):340-369.
  25. Lin Y, et al. Phytother Res. 2020;34(10):2459-2470.
  26. Zhang Y, et al. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2024;64(28):10138-10147.
  27. Alivand N, et al. 2024.
  28. Bertoncini-Silva C, et al. Mol Nutr Food Res. 2023;67(23):2300378.
  29. Gheflati A, et al. Avicenna J Phytomed. 2023;13(5):463.
  30. Mousavi SM, et al. Clin Nutr. 2020;39(1):123-133.
  31. Chen I-J, et al. Clin Nutr. 2016;35(3):592-599.
  32. Jäger R, et al. Sci Rep. 2024;14:12685.
  33. Nolan R, et al. 2020;12(5):1398.
  34. com. Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide: How Do They Compare? Updated 18 Jul 2025.
  35. EMJ Reviews. Weighing up the Risks: GI Side Effects of Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide.
  36. Bikou A, et al. Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2024;25(5):611-619.
  37. Kavyani Z, et al. 2023;26:100364.
  38. Liu D, et al. Front Pharmacol. 2025;16:1572197.
  39. Amini MR, et al. Complement Ther Med. 2020;49:102337.
  40. Asbaghi O, et al. Clin Nutr ESPEN. 2020;38:43-49.
  41. Yina J, Xing H, Yeb J. 2008;57(5):712-717.
  42. Amini MR, et al. J Food Biochem. 2025;48(6):e2921435.
  43. Cortez-Navarrete M, et al. J Med Food. 2022;25(6):577-584.
  44. Laczkó-Zöld E, et al. Front Nutr. 2024;10:1200801.
  45. Lim TK, et al. Pharmacol Ther. 2024;248:108529.
  46. Kim B, et al. Food Sci Biotechnol. 2023;32(5):697-704.
  47. Liu Y, et al. PLoS One. 2015;10(9):e0138646.
  48. Soares APC, et al. Ann Nutr Metab. 2022;78(5):265-272.
  49. Keramati M, et al. J Food Biochem. 2022;46(8):e14166.
  50. Zhou X, Xiaoyan F. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 2024;300:253-261.
  51. Ojo O, et al. 2025;6(1):3.
  52. Phung OJ, et al. Am J Clin Nutr. 2010;91(1):73-81.
  53. Asbaghi O, et al. Br J Nutr. 2024;131(7):1125-1157.
  54. Jurgens TM, et al. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012(12).
  55. Colonetti L, et al. Nutrition Research. 2022;104:1-9.
  56. Hursel R, et al. Int J Obes. 2009;33(9):956-961.
  57. Gheflati A, et al. Phytother Res. 2019;33(5):1277-1288.
  58. Bahari H, et al. Food Sci Nutr. 2024;12(2):641-660.
  59. Paller CJ, Pantuck A, Carducci MA. Prostate Cancer Prostatic Dis. 2017;20(3):265-270.
  60. Mousavi SM, et al. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2020;60(1):171-180.
  61. Unhapipatpong C, et al. Am J Clin Nutr. 2023;117(5):1005-1016.
  62. Dehzad MJ, et al. Phytother Res. 2023;37(4):1703-1728.
  63. Alivand N, et al. 2024.
  64. Jafari A, et al. Phytother Res. 2024;38(12):6048-6061.
  65. Onakpoya I, et al. Br J Nutr. 2011;106(2):196-202.
  66. Udani J, Tan O, Molina J. 2018;7(4):63.
  67. Udani J, Singh BB. Altern Ther Health Med. 2007;13(4):32-39.
  68. Udani J, Hardy M, Madsen DC. Altern Med Rev. 2004;9(1):63-69.
  69. Kim S-Y, et al. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2015;15:338.
  70. Chaves G, et al. Phytother Res. 2018;32(6):1030-1038.
  71. Andersen T, Fogh J. J Hum Nutr Diet. 2001;14(3):243-250.
  72. Jung J-H, Hur Y-I. Korean J Obes. 2016;25(4):197-206.
  73. Gerber T, et al. Phytother Res. 2023;37(2):527-548.
  74. José MFB, et al. Nutrition Reviews. 2023;81(9):1163-1179.
  75. Kim HJ, et al. J Funct Foods. 2012;4(1):287-293.
Scroll to Top