“The goal isn’t just to lose weight. It’s to have a strong metabolism for the long haul.” – Leslie Duffy
Whether you’re on a GLP-1 medication, considering it, or just curious about how it works, one thing is clear: these drugs are everywhere right now. For many women in midlife, they’ve been life-changing, helping quiet food noise, steady blood sugar, and making weight loss possible for the first time in years. But as empowering as that can feel, there are real challenges that we hardly hear about, from nutrient deficiencies and digestive issues to muscle loss, and a slower metabolism that’s hard to rebuild later on.
Today, I’m sharing a practical, science-backed toolkit to help you protect your health while you’re on GLP-1s and for the long term. You’ll learn what labs to ask your doctor about, how to prevent constipation, the importance of prioritizing protein and fiber, how to keep your digestion and energy steady even when your appetite drops, why movement and strength training matter more than ever, how to support your microbiome, the key supplements that can help maintain muscle and hormone balance during your journey, and more.
By the end of this episode, you’ll have a plan to use these medications safely, preserve your long-term metabolic health, and feel confident that you’re supporting your body, not depleting it.
Your Takeaways
- Why the rise in GLP-1 use calls for a more supportive, whole-body approach
- Financial and long-term health considerations, including muscle and bone protection
- New holistic recommendations for screening nutrient deficiencies and supporting overall health
- Common challenges like reduced hunger, slowed digestion, and nutrient loss
- The importance of fiber for gut health, digestion, and easing the transition off medication
- How slowed digestion can cause constipation and microbiome imbalances
- Why adequate protein is essential for muscle, hormones, and detoxification
- Key nutrients to monitor: B12, magnesium, iron, and zinc
- Lab tests to track health during GLP-1 use and prevent hidden deficiencies
- Functional strategies to preserve muscle, support digestion, and protect long-term resilience
Mentioned in this Episode
Grab your FREE Functional Medicine GLP-1 Toolkit
Lose Weight with the CALM Plate
Articles & Other Resources
- Clinical Recommendations to Manage Gastrointestinal Adverse Events in Patients Treated with Glp-1 Receptor Agonists: A Multidisciplinary Expert Consensus
- GLP-1 Agonists: What They Are, How They Work & Side Effects
- GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: Beyond Their Pancreatic Effects
- Adverse Effects of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
- Gastroparesis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment
- Polyvagal Theory: A Science of Safety
- CNN Business | More and more workers are using weight loss drugs. It’s costing their employers a fortune
- 2025 Employer Health Benefits Survey | KFF
👇 Ready to take your next step with Leslie?
Start with a free 20-minute Info Call to explore which of Leslie’s health programs are right for you.
💡 Book your free Info Call here → https://l.bttr.to/QmMLF
Want to explore all of Leslie’s programs and resources?
Visit the Work With Me page to see the full list of options, from free consultations and wellness assessments to functional lab testing, coaching programs, and mini courses. It’s your one place to learn how Leslie can support your midlife health journey.
✨ Explore now → https://leslieduffycoaching.com/how-to-work-with-me
Let’s connect!
Find me on Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-duffy-rn
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Got feedback?
I love hearing from listeners! Email your questions or topic requests to Leslie@TheHormoneShiftShow.com
Disclaimer
The content in this podcast and on this website is not a substitute for medical advice from your health care practitioner or your medical team. While I am a licensed healthcare professional, I am not giving you medical advice. This is purely for educational purposes. Please consult your provider for medical guidance specific to you.
