GLP-1 And Longevity: What’s The Link?
Dr Harpal Bains
MBBS DFSRH PGCAestMed (Dist)
February 19, 2025
Dr Harpal Bains
MBBS DFSRH PGCAestMed (Dist)
February 19, 2025
GLP-1 agonists are a relatively new medication used to treat type 2 diabetes; they help lower blood sugar (glucose) levels and encourage weight loss. But what’s the link between GLP-1s and longevity?
GLP-1 itself is a gut hormone that has a primary role in regulating blood sugar levels, but it also has potential in increasing healthspan and unlocking the key to anti-ageing. Research into this hormone has identified key areas where it could be utilised for use in longevity medicine, including boosting mitochondrial function, improving cellular resistance to stress, and mitigating inflammation.
Dr Harpal Bains, founder of Harpal Clinic, says, “Inflammation is a major contributor to ageing, and many age-related issues such as cardiovascular diseases and neurodegenerative disorders like dementia. The ability of GLP-1s to decrease the instances of these health issues is huge. With GLP-1 agonists, beyond glycemic control, their benefits may extend to improved exercise performance, enhanced brain health, and neuroprotection. By reducing inflammation, they may also reduce arterial stiffness, contributing to better blood pressure regulation and cardiovascular stability. This is an exciting time in medicine, as these therapies continue to reveal wide-ranging health benefits.”
Here, we explore the mechanisms behind GLP-1s and their potential in longevity medicine.
GLP-1, or glucagon-like peptide-1, is a hormone that is produced in the gut and secreted in response to food consumption, before being released into the bloodstream. Its roles within the body include:
GLP-1 agonists are medicines that mimic the effects of the GLP-1 hormone. The word ‘agonist’ in medical terms means a chemical substance that activates a receptor. Receptors are protein molecules found on the surface of cells in the human body. When an agonist and receptor meet, it causes a biological response, such as a reduction in blood sugar.
GLP-1 agonists are usually delivered by subcutaneous injection, self-administered by the patient either daily or weekly. An oral form – Rybelsus – also exists which has to be taken daily. Research is currently being conducted into a type (efpeglenatide) that can be administered monthly.
These medications have gained public interest in recent years as a weight loss drug. In the latest health survey for England (2022), it was revealed that 64% of adults in the country are overweight or obese, with 29% classed as obese (having a body mass index (BMI) over 30). The obesity prevalence has doubled since 1993, with the steep rise attributed to increased calorie intake due to the prevalence of affordable fast food and takeaway outlets, and an overall decrease in physical activity (Brits are 20% less active than they were in the 60s, according to 2017 guidance on obesity published by Public Health England).
Obesity-related illnesses, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke and cancer, cost the NHS £6.5 billion annually. With this in mind, it is likely that we’ll see a rise in GLP-1 agonists prescribed for weight loss.
Ozempic is one of the most widely marketed GLP-1 agonist brand names, enjoying popularity amongst celebrity clientele with dramatic weight loss results. Ozempic contains semaglutide, which is just one of a handful of GLP-1 agonists available. Others include:
These medications work in different ways and have differing side effects, so your prescribed medication will depend on your individual needs.
While many clinics are utilising GLP-1 agonists as a weight loss drug alone, its benefits are far and beyond this purpose. Researchers are now exploring their potential in slowing ageing and promoting longevity, with promising findings in neuroprotection, cardiovascular health, inflammation reduction and even muscle preservation.
One of the most exciting areas of research is the impact of GLP-1 agonists on brain health. A large-scale study published in Nature Medicine, which analysed data from over 215,000 U.S. military veterans with diabetes, found that GLP-1 receptor agonists were associated with a 12% reduction in the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
This supports the growing theory that these medications could help slow cognitive decline. Their potential neuroprotective effects may stem from their ability to reduce neuroinflammation, and possibly prevent neuronal apoptosis (cell death).
Ageing is accompanied by an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, but GLP-1 agonists appear to offer protective effects on the heart and blood vessels. Research suggests they lower the risk of heart attack and strokes by reducing inflammation, improving endothelial function (the layer of cells that line blood vessels), and potentially slowing the progression of atherosclerosis (the build-up of plaque in the artery walls).
Additionally, GLP-1 agonists help lower blood pressure – particularly in those using Tirzepatide – and may play a role in preserving kidney function, which is especially important for those with diabetes, as high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels and filters within the kidneys.
Chronic inflammation is a key driver of ageing, contributing to conditions like inflammatory arthritis, cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders. GLP-1 agonists have shown promise in reducing systemic inflammation, which could make them beneficial for conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Their ability to modulate the immune response and reduce oxidative stress further supports their potential role in slowing age-related degeneration.
For those interested in longevity from a physical performance perspective, GLP-1 agonists may offer unexpected benefits for muscle health. Research suggests they could help preserve muscle mass during caloric restriction, enhance muscle protein synthesis and improve metabolic efficiency. There is also evidence to suggest they may mitigate exercise-induced inflammation, helping individuals maintain performance as they age.
GLP-1 receptor agonists are also being investigated for their ability to reduce cravings and compulsive behaviours, particularly in relation to food and alcohol addiction. This has sparked interest in their potential as an adjunct therapy for addiction treatment – a discovery that could have significant implications for improving long-term health and well-being.
Longevity researchers are also exploring the combined benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists and Metformin, a drug commonly used to treat high blood sugar in those with type 2 diabetes. When used together, these medications may provide a powerful synergy for weight management, metabolic health and longevity.
As research into GLP-1 agonists continues to evolve, their potential as an anti-ageing and longevity-enhancing treatment is becoming increasingly clear. While these medications were originally developed for diabetes management, their ability to support brain health, protect the heart and reduce inflammation indicates that they are likely to become a key tool in the quest for healthier, longer lives.
Like many other medicines – such as paracetamol, antacids and anti-inflammatories – GLP-1 agonists can be used in a standard way to adequately address an issue such as obesity. Alternatively, with the help of a specialist, you can discover the right type and dosage of medication to better serve your requirements, and even exceed your expectations. If you are interested in exploring GLP-1 agonists as part of your longevity medicine journey, rather than for the sole purpose of diabetes or obesity management, it’s wise to contact a clinic that specialises in longevity medicine, rather than purchasing the medication from a weight loss-centred clinic, whether online or in person. Harpal Clinic is one of the very few clinics exploring the possibilities of microdosing GLP-1 agonists, which allows patients to experience the longevity benefits of the medication with a reduction in certain side effects.
Not only that, but as longevity specialists, we explore the benefits of GLP-1 agonists for all aspects of health, including joint, brain, heart and cardiovascular health, and more. It forms part of a carefully managed strategy that addresses diet, exercise, stress levels, other lifestyle habits, and other medications and therapies.
“The research into the benefits of GLP-1s for longevity is very exciting. It requires further development, but there are many exciting early-stage studies and anecdotal evidence. The potential for it is huge. Many of our forward-thinking patients are already willing to see how it benefits them.” – Dr. Harpal Bains
To find out more, book a consultation using our booking form, or call us on 020 7096 5475.
