I talked about GLP-1s and popular weight-loss medications a few months ago, but the conversation is heating up again. With Costco now offering these injections through its pharmacies, access is easier than ever, and so is the temptation to take the shortcut.
But as a health coach, I’m here to tell you: these medications aren’t harmless, and they’re not a shortcut to lasting health.
As these drugs become more common, we’re also learning more about their risks, long-term effects, and the growing number of lawsuits from people experiencing serious side effects. It raises an important question: what really happens when we try to replace our body’s natural systems instead of supporting them?
What GLP-1s Do
To recap, GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone your body naturally makes to help regulate blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. When you eat, GLP-1 signals your brain that you’re full and slows digestion. This helps balance blood sugar and keeps you satisfied longer.
Drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy mimic this process, reducing appetite and helping some people lose weight quickly, but at a cost.
The Risks to Know
Reports of side effects are growing, and nearly 2,000 lawsuits have been filed against the maker of Ozempic for failing to warn consumers of the risks associated with the weight loss drug. Some serious risks include:
- Gastroparesis (stomach paralysis)
- Persistent vomiting or intestinal blockages
- Gallbladder and kidney issues
- Sudden vision loss (known as NAION)
Other effects: fatigue, hair loss, nutrient deficiencies, and “food noise” suppression, which disconnects you from natural hunger cues.
Most studies have only followed users for one to two years. That means we still don’t know what long-term use does to overall metabolic health.
Why Women Should Be Especially Cautious
Heart disease is the #1 killer of women. Midlife brings estrogen decline, slowing metabolism and increasing cardiovascular risk. GLP-1 drugs can:
- Break down heart muscle tissue
- Destroy metabolism over time
- Cause 40% of weight loss from muscle, leaving a “skinny-fat” body composition
How to Support Your Body Naturally
Instead of outsourcing your health to medication, focus on habits that strengthen your natural systems:
- Protein-packed meals – eggs, fish, yogurt, beans, lean meats.
- Fiber and resistant starch – oats, chia seeds, lentils, green bananas.
- Healthy fats – avocados, olive oil, nuts.
- Daily movement – Pilates, walking, strength training.
- Sleep and stress management – critical for hormonal balance.
- Smart supplements – berberine, green tea extract, apple cider vinegar (supportive, not magic).
These habits preserve muscle, stabilize hormones, and strengthen metabolism without the risks of medication.
Final Takeaway
GLP-1 medications can be helpful for those needing medical support, but they aren’t a long-term wellness solution for everyone. Relying on medication instead of improving metabolism, nutrition, and movement can create more imbalance over time. A healthy diet and consistent exercise routine are the only true paths to lasting change, no prescription can replace what daily habits rebuild.
If your goal is lasting health, focus on restoring your body’s natural systems, not replacing them. Consistent habits strengthen your metabolism, balance hormones, and help you feel your best. Pilates is especially effective, improving strength, flexibility, and mind-body connection for sustainable wellness.
Explore our nutritional recipe library to nourish your body from the inside out, and visit our beginner Pilates category to start moving. No shortcuts, just balance.