PriMera Scientific Surgical Research and Practice (ISSN: 2836-0028)

Review Article

Volume 8 Issue 2

Natural Ingredient–Based Alternatives to GLP-1 and GLP-2 Peptide Therapies: A Pharmacological White Paper

Christina Rahm*

August 04, 2026

Abstract

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2) receptor agonists have transformed the clinical management of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and gastrointestinal disorders. Despite their strong therapeutic efficacy, their use is often limited by high cost, the requirement for injectable administration, gastrointestinal side effects, reduction in lean muscle mass, and challenges associated with long-term discontinuation. These limitations highlight the need for alternative or supportive approaches that can maintain metabolic benefits while minimizing adverse effects and improving patient adherence.

This white paper evaluates evidence-based natural ingredients as supportive or adjunctive strategies to GLP-1 and GLP-2 pharmacotherapies. Drawing from emerging pharmacological and nutraceutical research, the focus is placed on botanical compounds and bioactive nutrients that influence appetite regulation, glucose homeostasis, gut signaling, mitochondrial function, and skeletal muscle preservation. Particular attention is given to ingredient systems that may support safe titration of peptide therapies or serve as non-pharmaceutical alternatives for individuals who prefer not to utilize injectable agents.

References

  1. Astrup A., et al. “Safety, tolerability, and sustained weight loss over 2 years with the once-daily human GLP-1 analog, liraglutide”. International Journal of Obesity 36.6 (2012): 843-854.
  2. Campbell BI., et al. “International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: Protein and exercise”. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 4.1 (2007): 8.
  3. Milić N., et al. “New therapeutic potentials of milk thistle (Silybum marianum)”. Natural Product Communications 8.12 (2013): 1801-1810.
  4. MS K and MR A. “Ginger Revitalized: Exploring the Modern Applications of Zingiber Officinale in Medicine and Beyond”. New Armenian Medical Journal 18.3 (2024).
  5. Ramírez P., et al. “TetraSOD activates the antioxidant response pathway in human cells: An in vitro approach”. African Journal of Biotechnology 19.6 (2020): 367-373.
  6. Wilkinson DJ., et al. “Effects of leucine and its metabolite β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate on human skeletal muscle protein metabolism”. The Journal of Physiology 591.11 (2013): 2911-2923.
  7. Zuniga LY, González-Ortiz M and Martinez-Abundis E. “Effect of Gymnema sylvestre administration on metabolic syndrome, insulin sensitivity, and insulin secretion”. Journal of Medicinal Food 20.8 (2017): 750-754.