The Truth on Food Noise, Artificial Sweeteners and GLP-1 Muscle Loss (with Dr. Michael Greger)

In this episode of The Holistic GLP-1 Podcast, we welcome world-renowned physician, bestselling author, and founder of NutritionFacts.org , Dr. Michael Greger. Known for his evidence-based, straight-shooting approach to nutrition and lifestyle medicine, Dr. Greger provides a clear look at the most pressing questions surrounding GLP-1 medications, their promises and pitfalls in a 2025 context and beyond. Key topics here include: the truth about food noise, the metabolic downsides of artificial sweeteners, and the very real concern of disproportionate lean muscle loss while taking these drugs. We also consider how natural foods and spices like turmeric, cinnamon and even vinegar can naturally stimulate GLP-1 in the body, and why strength training may be your single most important ally to protect your health while taking these medications. If you've ever wondered whether GLP-1s can be a bridge to better habits—or just a prescription for a lifelong pharmaceutical plan—you won't want to miss this refreshingly direct conversation with Dr. Michael Greger. So, without furthers ado, let's get into it! *** SHOW NOTES [ 00:00 ] Introduction [ 02:00 ] Why GLP-1s Are Different: How these drugs deliver unprecedented weight loss compared to past "miracle" pills. [ 06:50 ] Benefits & Risks: GLP-1 effects beyond weight loss, including heart health, and why they should be a last resort when other methods fail. [ 09:20 ] Lifelong Prescription: Weight loss plateaus after a year; discussion of using GLP-1s as a short-term bridge to better habits. [ 14:50 ] Restoring Hope: How GLP-1s show patients their bodies aren't "broken," inspiring lifestyle change. [ 16:10 ] Natural Boosters: Turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne, vinegar, and greens can naturally stimulate GLP-1. [ 17:10 ] Microdosing Debate: Elizabeth raises the topic of microdosing; Dr. Greger stresses no clinical trials exist to confirm its safety or benefit. [ 22:60 ] Plant-Based Support: Fiber-rich greens, legumes, and whole foods help restore GLP-1 signaling. [ 27:40 ] Diets vs. Lifestyle: Why diets fail and why permanent change, guided by the Daily Dozen, is key. [ 29:10 ] Muscle Loss Risk: Up to 40% of weight lost on GLP-1s can be muscle — strength training is essential. [ 30:10 ] Super Responders: Some thrive, others don't respond at all — science hasn't yet explained why. [ 31:40 ] Food Noise: How processed food and marketing fuel cravings, and why GLP-1s quiet them. [ 34:10 ] Artificial Sweeteners: How stevia, sucralose and others sweeteners disrupt metabolism and worsen appetite. [ 36:40 ] Low-Glycemic Eating: Stable blood sugar supports appetite control; whole foods work best. [ 41:40 ] Weight Regain: Stopping GLP-1s often leads to fat regain and frailty without lifestyle change. [ 44:40 ] Tapering Off GLP-1s: No studies exist; tapering remains an open question worth exploring. [ 47:10 ] Looking Ahead: Dr. Greger previews his next book: How Not to Hurt on lifestyle approaches to pain management. [ 48:40 ] Closing: A balanced perspective in a polarized field; Dr. Greger praises the podcast's approach. *** 🔗 Mentioned in This Episode: Learn how to activate GLP-1 naturally and silence cravings! CLICK HERE TO GET ⇒ Free Masterclass: Freedom From Food Noise: https://go.elizabethmcgann.com/start *** Get Connected with Elizabeth McGann: Coaching Website: http://www.ElizabethMcGann.com Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/elizabethmcgann Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElizabethMcGannWellness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethmcgann X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ElizabethMcGann *** Learn more about Dr. Michael Greger: Official Website: https://drgreger.org Dr. Greger's Daily Dozen: https://nutritionfacts.org/daily-dozen/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nutrition-facts-with-dr-greger/id1183093544 X Account: https://x.com/nutrition_facts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelgregermd/?hl=en Best-Selling Books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B001K892OG?ccs_id=9acc0c35-c360-46c5-9392-22a467acd998