GLP-1 or glucagon-like peptide 1 is a hormone that plays an essential role in managing our body’s energy and blood sugar levels. It’s released after we eat and helps regulate our blood sugar with great precision. If you didn’t know, this hormone is at the heart of many modern diabetes treatments.
How GLP-1 Regulates Blood Sugar
Every time you eat, GLP-1 is released and starts interacting with different receptors in your body. It signals the pancreas to release insulin, which helps move sugar from your blood into your cells for energy. GLP-1 receptor agonists also stops the liver from making too much sugar, which when coupled with insulin release, helps keep your blood sugar levels balanced.
In more ways than one, GLP-1 protects your body from blood sugar spikes and drops. For those with type 2 diabetes who often don’t respond well to insulin, GLP-1 can be a game-changer.
How GLP-1 Helps with Insulin Release
Two main forms of GLP-1 are released when you eat: GLP-1 (7-37) and GLP-1 (7-36) NH2. These molecules bind to receptors located in the pancreas and this binding triggers insulin release when blood sugar levels are high.
Aside from the immediate insulin release, GLP-1 also supports the health of the pancreatic beta cells, which produce insulin. Studies show that GLP-1 promotes the growth and repair of these cells so that they remain healthy and functional. This is particularly important in the management of diabetes and preventing further complications.
How GLP-1 Works with Other Hormones
GLP-1 works alongside other hormones to keep your blood sugar in check. For example, it helps regulate glucagon, another hormone that controls sugar production in the liver. By moderating glucagon, GLP-1 helps make sure your liver doesn’t produce too much sugar.
And then GLP-1 also teams up with other incretin hormones, like GIP, to increase insulin release. This “teamwork” helps maintain stable blood sugar levels after you eat.
GLP-1-based Therapies for Diabetes
New treatments using GLP-1 have been found to improve blood sugar control by supporting insulin production and reducing glucagon levels. These therapies offer a more balanced approach to managing diabetes.
There’s no doubt GLP-1 treatments have many benefits. They help regulate blood sugar and can lead to significant weight loss, especially in overweight and obese patients.
However, these treatments are not without challenges. First of all, they are usually given by injection, which some patients find inconvenient (or even scary). Fortunately there’s now an oral GLP-1 drug you can consider.
In any case, another drawback is that there’s also a risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) if the dose isn’t right. Also, some people might experience side effects like nausea and vomiting.
The Future of GLP-1 in Diabetes Management
Researchers are working on improving GLP-1 therapies to make them more effective and easier to use. This includes developing more oral versions of the medication to avoid injections.
It’s worth noting that some experts believe GLP-1 might also help prevent diabetes. Early intervention with GLP-1 could stabilize blood sugar levels and promote a healthy body weight, which could prevent diabetes from developing in the first place.