If you've been hearing about "GLP-1s" and medical weight loss everywhere lately, you're not alone. Clients ask us about it on the massage table all the time. So here's a plain-language look at what these programs are, how they work, and what to know before you decide whether one is right for you.
A quick note first: Aaron and the BWBA team are massage therapists, not medical providers. This post is general education, not medical advice. Decisions about medication are made only by a licensed clinician who reviews your health history.
What is GLP-1?
GLP-1 is a hormone your own body already makes. Your small intestine releases it after you eat, and it helps in a few ways:
- It prompts your pancreas to release insulin when blood sugar rises after a meal.
- It slows how quickly food leaves your stomach, so you tend to feel full longer.
- It signals your brain to ease appetite and increase that "I've had enough" feeling.
GLP-1 is a peptide, a short chain of amino acids. That's why you'll often hear weight loss medications in this family called "peptides."
How do GLP-1 medications fit in?
Medications in this family are designed to mimic the actions of your body's natural GLP-1. Some options combine GLP-1 with a second gut hormone called GIP. Depending on the person, these medications may be prescribed by a clinician to support weight management, alongside changes in how you eat, move and sleep.
The kindgevity weight management program offers GLP-1 options as injections or oral tablets, and GLP-1/GIP options as injections. Whether you qualify for any medication, and which one, is decided only during a consultation with your own licensed clinician.
What about compounded medications?
The medications offered through the program are compounded. That means they're prepared by state-licensed compounding pharmacies for individual treatment needs. Compounded medications can be prescribed under federal law, but they are not FDA-approved and are not reviewed by the FDA for safety, effectiveness or quality. Your clinician will talk with you about what that means for you.
Will I lose weight?
You may. Results vary from person to person and depend on the medication, the dose, how your body responds, and how well it's combined with nutrition, sleep and movement. No one can promise a specific outcome, and you should be wary of anyone who does.
Are there side effects?
Yes, and it's worth knowing them up front. Side effects are often mild and temporary, but they can include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue or trouble sleeping
- Mild irritation where an injection is given
Your clinician and care team can help you manage these, and you should always tell them about anything that worries you.
Medication is only one part of the picture
The program is built around more than a prescription. It includes visits with a licensed provider, lab work when it's needed, and monthly care coaching that covers things like nutrition, stress, sleep and staying active.
That last part is where we come in. Movement and recovery matter on any weight loss journey. Regular bodywork can be a supportive part of a routine that helps you stay active and feel good in your body, whether or not medication is part of your plan.
How to get started
- Take a short questionnaire on the kindgevity site.
- Meet with a licensed provider who reviews your history and goals.
- If care is right for you, your plan and any prescriptions are managed through the platform. Nothing medical happens on our website.
Explore the kindgevity weight management program or learn more about kindgevity.
Medications are prescribed only by a licensed clinician if deemed medically appropriate after a consultation. Programs are not available in all states. Compounded medications are not approved or reviewed by the FDA for safety, effectiveness or quality. kindgevity is brought to you by BWBA × Club Kindness and operated by Club Kindness LLC.