GLP-1s: Promises and pitfalls

In this clinically rich episode, Lisa Costa-Bir speaks with naturopath, nutritionist and practitioner educator, Rhiannon Hardingham, about the evolving role of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RAs) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) in women’s health, including fertility, polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) and peri/post-menopausal presentations, highlighting the drugs therapeutic potential and the risks of high-dose prescribing without nutritional or exercise support.

Rhiannon shares why GLP-1s may be most valuable when used at the lowest effective dose as part of an integrative weight management approach, alongside diet, lifestyle, resistance training and practitioner support. The conversation covers oestrogen’s influence on GLP-1 efficacy, metabolic health, Ozempic babies, children and adolescent use, online peptides and the importance of protecting muscle, bone and hormonal health. Rhiannon's key message for perimenopausal women is simple: “lift weight, don’t lose weight”.  This podcast is a valuable reflection and update from Rhiannon Hardingham, one year on from Mastering Women’s Health in the GLP-1 Era.