GLP-1 Rapid Fire: What Nobody Tells You About Weight LossOzempic, Mounjaro, microdosing, menopause, muscle loss, and the questions patients are really asking. Are GLP-1 medications the breakthrough we've been waiting for—or are we overlooking some important risks? In this episode of Rise Above, Dr. Emily Wheeler sits down with nurse practitioner Kristy for a candid, rapid-fire conversation about GLP medications, weight loss, and what they're actually seeing in clinical practice. Think of it as two healthcare providers chatting in the break room between patients—sharing real experiences, challenging assumptions, and answering questions people don't always have time to ask during a medical appointment. And spoiler alert: There's a lot more to this conversation than losing weight. From Ozempic and Mounjaro to emerging medications like retatrutide, Emily and Kristy explore the potential benefits, concerns, and why the number on the scale doesn't tell the whole story. In this episode, we're tackling: GLP-1 basics: How do these medications work, and what's the difference?Beyond weight loss: What are patients reporting about inflammation, cravings, alcohol consumption, joint pain, and other unexpected changes?Are GLPs cheating? Can medication support lasting health without replacing healthy habits?Muscle loss and metabolism: Why protein, hydration, and strength training are essential.Menopause and hormones: Why some perimenopausal women struggle to lose weight, even on GLPs.Microdosing and plateaus: How providers approach individualized dosing and stalled progress.Libido and sexual health: Can GLPs affect sex drive, pleasure, or intimacy?Safety and sourcing: What should patients know about prescriptions, compounding pharmacies, and online medications?Long-term success: What happens when you stop taking a GLP?Kristy shares experiences from medical weight management, while Dr. Wheeler brings a functional medicine perspective to nutrition, metabolic health, biomarkers, and whole-person care. The biggest takeaway? Weight loss doesn't automatically equal better health. GLP medications can be valuable tools, but long-term wellness requires more than appetite suppression. It's about building strength, nourishing your body, understanding your individual needs, and creating habits that support your health for years to come. Whether you're currently taking a GLP medication, considering one, or simply curious, this episode will help you ask better questions and make more informed decisions with your healthcare provider. Connect with Dr. Emily Wheeler Website: https://www.dremilywheeler.com Free health guide: https://www.dremilywheeler.com/free-guide/ About Rise Above Hosted by Dr. Emily Wheeler, Rise Above explores functional medicine, whole-person health, and the science behind feeling better. Through practical education and candid conversations, Dr. Wheeler helps listeners take a more informed, proactive role in their health. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Some uses discussed are investigational or off-label. Patient experiences do not establish proven benefits or safety. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing medications.