Natural Ways to Increase GLP-1 Levels
While a lot of recent news has focused on GLP-1 agonists (such as Ozempic® and Wegovy® among others) and their potential role in weight loss, our bodies produce GLP-1 as well.
Research has shown that some foods and lifestyle practices may also provide natural upregulation of GLP-1 production in the body. Increasing GLP-1 levels naturally can support better metabolic health and aid in weight management. This approach can be used alone or in tandem with GLP-1 agonists.
Consume More Foods Rich in Fiber and Protein
Whether you are just looking for natural ways to increase GLP-1 or supporting your journey with medication, foods with high nutrient density can support your health goals.
- Fiber-Rich Foods: Fiber plays a key role in stimulating GLP-1 production. Soluble fibers like oatmeal, beans, and flaxseeds slow down digestion and nutrient absorption, prolonging the release of GLP-1 and insulin. Incorporating a variety of vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and carrots into your diet provides both soluble and insoluble fibers, supporting overall gut health and enhancing GLP-1 secretion.
- In particular dietary resistant starch has been shown in studies to upregulate GLP-1 and PYY (Peptide YY, a hormone that can decrease appetite) in a sustained manner. Most Hero Bread products include resistant starch.*
- Protein-Rich Foods: Consuming adequate protein also triggers GLP-1 release. Opt for lean protein sources like chicken, turkey, tofu, and legumes. These foods not only help in maintaining muscle mass but also aid in regulating appetite and glucose metabolism, indirectly supporting GLP-1 function.
Read more about how the added protein and fiber can help keep you feeling full.
Prioritize Probiotics and Gut Health
- Incorporate Probiotic-Rich Foods: Probiotics promote a healthy gut microbiome, which influences GLP-1 production. Yogurt with live cultures, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi are excellent sources of probiotics. These foods introduce beneficial bacteria into your gut, enhancing nutrient absorption and potentially increasing GLP-1 levels.
- Prebiotic Foods: Support probiotic growth with prebiotic-rich foods like garlic, onions, bananas, and asparagus. Prebiotics serve as food for the good bacteria in your gut, fostering a balanced microbiome environment that aids in GLP-1 regulation. Resistant starch works as a prebiotic in the gut, aiding in upregulating GLP-1. Most Hero Bread products include resistant starch.*
Exercise for Metabolic Health
- Aerobic Exercise: Regular physical activity, especially aerobic exercises like brisk walking, running, or cycling, can boost GLP-1 levels. Exercise stimulates muscle contractions and increases insulin sensitivity, which in turn enhances GLP-1 secretion. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week to reap metabolic benefits.
*Please see each individual product ingredient panel. At this time there is no research or validation of the specific combination of ingredients in Hero Bread.
