| Semaglutide: Big Heart Benefits—But What About Your Gut? | Dear e-Alert Reader,
You’ve probably heard about semaglutide by now, whether as a breakthrough drug for diabetes or a weight-loss solution that’s making waves.
But there’s more to this drug than just shedding pounds—it’s also showing major promise for improving heart health.
That said, it’s not all good news. Semaglutide is raising some concerns, especially when it comes to its effects on your gut.
Let's break down what this new research means for you, especially if you're exploring ways to protect your heart without getting swept up in the hype.
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Recent studies are showing that semaglutide doesn’t just help you lose weight—it also seems to have some direct cardiovascular benefits.
According to a new meta-analysis published in the International Journal of Obesity, semaglutide users experienced significant reductions in major cardiovascular events. This includes a 76% reduction in hospitalizations for heart failure, a 35% lower risk of stroke, and a 21% reduction in deaths from any cause.
These are impressive numbers, especially if you're at higher risk for heart disease, something many of us worry about as we age.
And while weight loss is often a contributing factor to better heart health, scientists believe semaglutide itself has properties that help stabilize plaque in your arteries and reduce systemic inflammation.
But the benefits don’t stop at your heart. Semaglutide also appears to improve kidney function and help with liver conditions like fatty liver disease, while even showing some potential benefits for your brain health.
(If you'd like to explore more about the brain-boosting potential of GLP-1 antagonists like semaglutide, be sure to go here and check out the Health Science Institute’s May newsletter where we cover these topics in-depth.)
While semaglutide's heart health benefits are grabbing headlines, there’s another side to the story…
Many people taking semaglutide report gastrointestinal issues, ranging from mild discomfort to more severe problems like nausea, constipation, and diarrhea. According to the research, these side effects are dose-dependent, meaning the higher the dose, the more likely you are to experience gut trouble.
This has led some patients to discontinue treatment, raising an important question: Are the heart benefits worth the potential toll on your digestive system?
For some, the answer may be yes—especially if you're at high risk for heart disease. But for others, the gut issues could outweigh the cardiovascular benefits, making it essential to weigh the pros and cons with your healthcare provider.
As promising as semaglutide seems for heart health, it’s important to remember that this drug—and others like it—are still relatively new. Long-term studies are needed to fully understand the balance between benefits and side effects.
And while medications like semaglutide can play a role in protecting your heart, it’s not the only solution. Staying active, eating a healthy diet, and managing stress are all crucial steps in maintaining your heart health, especially as we age.
So, what’s the takeaway? Semaglutide may be a game-changer, especially for those at high risk for cardiovascular disease, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.
If you're curious about semaglutide or other GLP-1 receptor antagonists, we encourage you to stay informed and discuss these options with your doctor. And don't forget, we’ll continue bringing you the latest research—both the good and the questionable—so you can make the best choices for your health.
To keeping your heart healthy,
Rachel Mace
Managing Editorial Director, e-Alert
with contributions from the research team
P.S. Want to learn more about semaglutide's potential benefits? Check out this HSI newsletter where we dive deeper into this topic!
Sources:
Berman, R. (2024, October 20). Semaglutide boosts heart health, weight loss but may lead to gut problems. Medicalnewstoday.com; Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/semaglutide-boosts-heart-health-weight-loss-but-may-lead-to-gut-problems#How-do-we-know-semaglutide-offers-heart-benefits
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