What is GLP-1 and how does it work?
GLP-1 are hormones that the body naturally synthesizes in the intestines when food enters them. GLP-1 hormones stimulate the pancreas to produce the glucose-regulating hormone – insulin. [1]
GLP-1 hormone analogs – medications such as Wegovy, Saxenda, Mounjaro were initially licensed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, but in recent years they have gained recognition for their ability to help people lose weight. [2]
Effects on metabolic processes:
- Increases the feeling of satiety;
- Reduces appetite;
- Stimulates insulin production – thereby reducing glycogen reserves in muscles and the liver, helping the body use fat stores more quickly;
- Slows down gastric activity and stomach emptying – food is digested more slowly, providing a longer-lasting feeling of fullness;
- Decreases cravings for salty and sweet products, as well as fatty and high-calorie foods.
Within the program, the following are adjusted in the body:
- Insulin resistance, insulin, and blood glucose levels;
- Ferritin deficiency;
- Homocysteine level;
- Cholesterol and lipid profile;
- Weight-related arterial hypertension;
- Overall weight loss of 10–20%;
- Daily nutritional habits and physical activity.
Supplements included in the program:
- Reduce cravings for sweet and salty carbohydrates;
- Regulate cholesterol levels;
- Support metabolic activity, reduce appetite, and improve satiety;
- Improve sleep quality and support nervous system function;
- Regulate homocysteine and folic acid levels.
Indications
Main contraindications:
- Thyroid cancer (in the patient);
- Family history of thyroid cancer (parents, grandparents);
- Previous pancreatitis in medical history;
- Chronic or acute pancreatitis;
- High risk of developing pancreatitis (gallstones, high alcohol consumption, hypertriglyceridemia);
- Severe gastrointestinal diseases;
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding;
- Type 1 diabetes;
- Diabetic gastroparesis;
- Renal failure;
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN syndrome).
3-month GLP-1 program
Weight reduction of 10%–12% from the initial body weight
- Follow-up consultation with a nutrition specialist (30 min) once every 6 weeks (two follow-up consultations);
- Weekly supervision by a nutrition specialist, including communication and support;
- Initial consultation with the lead physician (60 min);
- Nutrition specialist consultation, metabolic diagnostics with Cosmed, and development of an individualized plan (60 min);
- GLP-1 medication for 3 months;;
- ndividually tailoreddietary supplements for 3 months – to support metabolic processes;
- Final consultation with an internal medicine physician (60 min).
Preparation for the physician’s consultation:
Prior to the consultation, it is necessary to undergo blood tests and an abdominal ultrasound; thyroid ultrasound (examinations performed within the last 12 months).
Blood tests: Complete blood count, ALT, amylase, TSH, CRP, glucose, insulin, HOMA index (tests performed within the last 6 months).
6-month GLP-1 program
Weight reduction of 15% from the initial body weight
- Initial consultation with the lead physician (60 min);
- Nutrition specialist consultation, metabolic diagnostics with Cosmed, and development of an individualized plan (60 min);
- GLP-1 medication for 6 months;;
- ndividually tailored dietary supplements for 6 months– to support metabolic processes;
- Follow-up consultation with a nutrition specialist (30 min) once every 6 weeks (four follow-up consultations);
- Follow-up consultation with the lead physician (30 min);
- Weekly supervision by a nutrition specialist, including communication and support.
Preparation for the physician’s consultation:
Prior to the consultation, it is necessary to undergo blood tests and an abdominal ultrasound; thyroid ultrasound (examinations performed within the last 12 months).
Blood tests: Complete blood count, ALT, amylase, TSH, CRP, glucose, insulin, HOMA index (tests performed within the last 6 months).
9-month GLP-1 program
Weight reduction of 17–22% from the initial body weight
- Consultation with a physician (60 min);
- Nutrition specialist consultation, metabolic diagnostics with Cosmed, and development of an individualized plan (60 min);
- GLP-1 medication for 9 months;;
- Individually tailored dietary supplements for 9 months– to support metabolic processes;
- Follow-up consultation with a nutrition specialist (30 min) once every 6 weeks (six follow-up consultations);
- Follow-up consultation with the lead physician (30 min) (two follow-up consultations);
- Weekly supervision by a nutrition specialist, including communication and support.
Preparation for the physician’s consultation:
Prior to the consultation, it is necessary to undergo blood tests and an abdominal ultrasound; thyroid ultrasound (examinations performed within the last 12 months).
Blood tests: Complete blood count, ALT, amylase, TSH, CRP, glucose, insulin, HOMA index (tests performed within the last 6 months).
About us
Dr. Jūlija Balandina and Sandija Šplīta work successfully as a team, combining their knowledge and experience to offer various methods for weight management.
In November 2023, the “Allurion” project was launched – an intragastric balloon for weight reduction, offering patients in Latvia the first non-invasive method for weight loss.
At the end of 2024, the “GLP-1 project” was introduced, combining next-generation weight loss medications, medical and nutritional supervision, individually designed diet plans, and dietary supplements. The program is available for three, six, and nine months, ensuring a weight reduction of 10–20% from the initial body weight.
Dr. Jūlija Balandina
Doctor, preventive medicine specialist
- Physician at AntiAging Institute, specialist in preventive medicine;
- “Allurion” program – internationally certified lead physician;
- Provides consultations and solutions for weight management methods;
- In-depth knowledge of the impact of dietary supplements and medications on weight;
- Wide-ranging genetic testing and interpretation;
- Intravenous cocktail therapy;
- In 2024 – graduated with distinction from the World Society of Anti-Aging Medicine (WOSAAM) course in longevity and quality-of-life medicine, obtaining a qualification certificate.
Sandija Šplīta
Nutrition specialist, project manager
- Lead nutrition specialist at AntiAging Institute;
- “Allurion” program – internationally certified nutrition specialist and project manager;
- Provides consultations and solutions for weight management methods;
- Experienced in working with metabolic diagnostic equipment – Cosmed (indirect calorimetry), bioimpedance, DEXA scan;
- Advises on blood test norms and addresses deficiencies;
- In-depth knowledge of dietary supplements and their impact on weight;
- Nutritional genetic testing and interpretation.
