From the Research
Berberine is a natural mimicker of Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), and it can be taken at doses of 500mg 1-3 times daily with meals to stimulate GLP-1 production or activity in the body. Natural GLP-1 mimickers include several plant-based compounds and foods that may help stimulate GLP-1 production or activity in the body. Other options include bitter melon extract (1000-2000mg daily), cinnamon (1-6g daily), fenugreek seeds (5-10g daily), and ginseng (1-2g daily) 1. High-fiber foods like beans, lentils, oats, and vegetables naturally stimulate GLP-1 release, as do fermented foods containing probiotics. Protein-rich meals, particularly those containing specific amino acids like glutamine, can also enhance GLP-1 secretion.
These natural approaches work by either directly stimulating GLP-1 receptors or by promoting the release of endogenous GLP-1 from intestinal L-cells. While these natural options can support metabolic health, they are generally less potent than pharmaceutical GLP-1 receptor agonists and should be used as complementary approaches rather than replacements for prescribed medications. The most recent study on GLP-1 physiology informs the pharmacotherapy of obesity, highlighting the importance of gut vs. brain-derived GLP-1 for the control of feeding and body weight 2.
Some key points to consider when using natural GLP-1 mimickers include:
- Berberine is one of the most effective natural GLP-1 mimickers
- High-fiber foods and fermented foods can stimulate GLP-1 release
- Protein-rich meals can enhance GLP-1 secretion
- Natural GLP-1 mimickers are generally less potent than pharmaceutical GLP-1 receptor agonists
- These natural approaches should be used as complementary approaches rather than replacements for prescribed medications.