o understand how GLP-1 agonists work, it helps to understand how the naturally occurring GLP-1 hormone works.
GLP-1 is a hormone that your small intestine makes. It has several roles, including:
Triggering insulin release from your pancreas: Insulin is an essential hormone that allows your body to use the food you eat for energy. It lowers the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood. If you don’t have enough insulin, your blood sugar increases, leading to diabetes.
Blocking glucagon secretion: Glucagon is a hormone your body uses to raise your blood sugar levels when necessary. So, GLP-1 prevents more glucose from going into your bloodstream.
Slowing stomach emptying: Slower digestion means that your body releases less glucose (sugar) from the food you eat into your bloodstream.
Increasing how full you feel after eating (satiety): GLP-1 affects areas of your brain that processes hunger and satiety.
