Medical Glossary
Key terms and definitions for understanding GLP-1 therapy and metabolic health
A
Appetite Regulation
The biological process by which the body controls feelings of hunger and satiety. GLP-1 medications work primarily through central appetite regulation in the hypothalamus.
Adaptive Thermogenesis
The metabolic adaptation that occurs during weight loss, where the body reduces energy expenditure to defend against further weight loss. Can contribute to plateaus.
B
BCAA (Branched-Chain Amino Acids)
Essential amino acids (leucine, isoleucine, valine) that support muscle protein synthesis and recovery. Particularly important during caloric restriction.
Bioimpedance Analysis
A method of measuring body composition (fat mass vs. lean mass) using electrical impedance. Less accurate than DEXA but more accessible for regular monitoring.
D
DEXA Scan
Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry - the gold standard for measuring body composition, providing accurate assessment of fat mass, lean mass, and bone density.
Dose Escalation
The gradual increase of medication dosage over time to minimize side effects while achieving therapeutic effect. Standard protocol for GLP-1 medications.
G
Gastric Emptying
The rate at which food leaves the stomach and enters the small intestine. GLP-1 medications slow gastric emptying, contributing to feelings of fullness.
GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1)
A naturally occurring hormone produced in the intestines that regulates blood sugar, slows digestion, and reduces appetite. Medications mimic this hormone at therapeutic doses.
I
Incretin Hormone
A group of hormones, including GLP-1, that stimulate insulin secretion in response to meals. Forms the basis for incretin-based therapies.
Insulin Sensitivity
How effectively cells respond to insulin signals. GLP-1 therapy improves insulin sensitivity, contributing to better metabolic health beyond weight loss.
L
Lean Body Mass
Total body weight minus fat mass - includes muscle, bone, organs, and water. Preserving lean mass during weight loss is critical for metabolic health.
Leptin
A hormone produced by fat cells that signals energy sufficiency to the brain. Leptin resistance can contribute to difficulty losing weight.
M
Metabolic Adaptation
Physiological changes that occur during weight loss, including reduced metabolic rate, increased hunger, and decreased satiety - the primary cause of plateaus.
Muscle Protein Synthesis
The biological process of building new muscle tissue. Requires adequate protein intake and resistance training stimulus, especially during weight loss.
N
NEAT (Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis)
Calories burned through daily activities excluding formal exercise - fidgeting, walking, standing. Can decrease unconsciously during weight loss.
Nausea
The most common side effect of GLP-1 medications, especially during initial titration. Typically improves within 4-8 weeks as the body adapts.
P
Plateau
A period of 4+ weeks where weight remains stable despite continued adherence to medication and lifestyle plan. Results from metabolic adaptation.
Progressive Overload
The gradual increase of stress placed on the body during exercise. Essential principle for maintaining and building muscle mass during weight loss.
R
Resistance Training
Exercise that causes muscles to contract against external resistance. Critical for preserving lean mass during GLP-1 therapy and weight loss.
Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR)
The number of calories your body burns at rest. Decreases with weight loss due to smaller body size and metabolic adaptation.
S
Sarcopenia
Age-related loss of muscle mass and strength. Risk is increased during rapid weight loss without adequate protein and resistance training.
Satiety
The feeling of fullness and satisfaction after eating. GLP-1 medications enhance satiety signals, helping reduce food intake naturally.
T
Titration
The process of gradually increasing medication dosage to find the optimal therapeutic dose while minimizing side effects.
Transition Phase
The period when tapering off GLP-1 medication and establishing behavioral strategies for long-term weight maintenance.
No matching terms found.
Weekly insights onGLP-1 therapy
Join patients and providers who trust our evidence-based platform for GLP-1 guidance.
Get weekly updates
New clinical insights and patient guides every week.
Frequently asked questions
Answers to the questions our community asks most about GLP-1 therapy.
Individual response varies significantly. Most patients notice appetite changes within the first week, with measurable weight loss typically beginning in weeks 2–4. The timeline depends on dosage, individual metabolism, lifestyle factors, and starting weight.
Plateaus are a normal part of the weight loss process as your metabolism adapts. Adjusting nutrition, activity, and reviewing your plan with your provider can help break through them.
Prioritizing protein intake and resistance training are the two most effective strategies for preserving lean mass during treatment.
Weight regain risk varies by individual. A structured transition plan focused on nutrition and habit formation significantly improves long-term maintenance.
Eating smaller meals, avoiding high-fat foods, and staying hydrated can help. Most side effects improve as your body adjusts over the first few weeks.