GLP-1s: The Ups, the Downs, and Life After the Jab
Hey Warriors,
We wanted to touch on something lots of you have asked about recently, GLP-1 medications. You might have heard of them as “weight-loss jabs” like Wegovy or Ozempic. They’ve been all over the news and socials, and there’s a lot of mixed messages out there.
So let’s break it down simply, with no judgment. Just facts, studies, and what we’ve seen so far.
What are GLP-1s?
They’re medicines that were first made to help with diabetes, but doctors now also use them for weight loss. They work by helping you feel full quicker, slowing digestion, and lowering blood sugar.
In studies here in the UK, some people lost around 15% of their body weight over a year. But in real life, results can be smaller, sometimes only a few percent.
What people experience
Positive changes: Some report steady weight loss, feeling more in control of food cravings, and even improvements in blood sugar and heart health.
Side effects: The most common are sickness, tummy problems, tiredness, or constipation. Which can make day to day life tough.
Coming off them: Studies show many people put weight back on when they stop taking the injections. This can feel frustrating and affect confidence, especially if there’s no support with lifestyle changes alongside it.
Impact on muscle: Without regular exercise, especially strength training, studies suggest that up to 40% of the weight lost on GLP-1s may actually come from muscle instead of fat. This is why keeping your body moving is such a powerful partner to any weight-loss journey.
Why lifestyle is still the key
The research is clear: the best long-term results come when these medicines are combined with movement, nutrition, and support. Without that, a large chunk of the weight lost can actually come from muscle instead of fat.
That’s why, whether you’re on medication or not, strength training, balanced eating, and mental wellbeing are so important. They protect your body, your energy, and your health for life, not just for the short term.
Our take aways
GLP-1 medications are a new tool that some people are using for weight loss, but they’re not a magic fix. They can help with appetite, but they don’t replace the power of daily movement, nourishing food, and looking after your mental health.
At the end of the day, the purest form of health and fitness is always the best foundation by moving your body, eating well, sleeping well, and building strength. And remember, no matter what the headlines say, your journey is about feeling strong, happy, and confident in yourself.
Courtney & Team CB
You can dive into some of the information we looked at here: