GLP-1, Akkermansia, and Natural Weight Loss: A Functional Nutritionist Perspective

GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide (Ozempic) have gained popularity for their ability to suppress appetite and promote weight loss. 

However, the long-term challenge is what happens when people stop taking these drugs??

Many experience rebound weight gain, metabolic slowdown, and worsened insulin sensitivity, making it difficult to maintain results.

At Peak DNA, we take a functional nutrition approach—one that focuses on gut health, metabolic flexibility, and nutrient absorption to ensure lasting weight management. A key part of this strategy is optimising Akkermansia muciniphila, a beneficial gut bacterium that naturally enhances GLP-1 production, insulin sensitivity, and fat metabolism. We’ve been advocating this to our gym members for 5 years now. 

What is GLP-1 and Why is it Important?

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a hormone that regulates appetite, blood sugar, and gut function. It slows digestion, enhances insulin sensitivity, and helps the body efficiently burn fat.

While GLP-1 drugs mimic these effects, their benefits often disappear once the medication is stopped. By taking a gut-first approach, we can naturally stimulate GLP-1 production, improve metabolic health, and prevent weight regain in a sustainable way.

Akkermansia: The Key to Natural GLP-1 Production

Akkermansia muciniphila strengthens the gut lining and enhances GLP-1 secretion by producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate and propionate. These SCFAs activate enteroendocrine cells in the gut, triggering higher GLP-1 levels, which naturally curb hunger, stabilise blood sugar, and promote fat loss.

Low Akkermansia levels are linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic dysfunction, making it a critical target for weight management.

Akkermansia’s Role in Metabolism and Weight Loss

1. Prevents GLP-1 Withdrawal Effects

   •   Stimulating GLP-1 naturally through Akkermansia helps prevent the weight regain and metabolic slowdown often seen after stopping GLP-1 medications.

   •   Akkermansia helps maintain stable insulin sensitivity and appetite control long-term.

2. Strengthens the Gut Barrier

   •   Akkermansia feeds on mucin, reinforcing the gut lining and reducing inflammation.

   •   A strong gut lining prevents endotoxemia (toxins leaking into the bloodstream), which contributes to weight gain and metabolic disease.

3. Reduces Fat Storage & Inflammation

   •   Akkermansia has been shown to reduce visceral fat, the most harmful type of body fat.

   •   It lowers lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and inflammation, which are both linked to obesity and insulin resistance.

4. Enhances Metabolic Flexibility

   •   Higher Akkermansia levels help the body efficiently switch between burning carbs and fat for energy.

   •   This reduces energy crashes, food cravings, and fat accumulation.

Boosting Akkermansia Naturally

1. Prebiotic-Rich Foods (Fuel for Akkermansia)

   •   Apple Peels & Berries: Rich in polyphenols & pectin, which directly feed Akkermansia.

   •   Oats & Resistant Starch: Supports SCFA production and gut microbiome balance.

2. Collagen & Mucin Production Support

Akkermansia thrives on mucin, so increasing mucin production is key.

   •   Multi-Collagen Supplement: Supports gut barrier integrity and mucin production.

   •   Eggs & Bone Broth: Rich in L-serine & gelatin, essential for gut lining repair.

3. Akkermansia Probiotic Supplement

   •   Pendulum Akkermansia is one of the only direct Akkermansia probiotics available.

   •   Pairing with prebiotic fibers (like polyphenols) ensures Akkermansia thrives.

4. Polyphenol & SCFA Boosters

   •   Dark Chocolate (85%+ Cocoa): Provides polyphenols that increase Akkermansia levels.

   •   Green Tea & Red Wine (Resveratrol): Rich in microbiome-enhancing polyphenols.

   •   Butyrate Supplements or Ghee: Supports gut health and natural GLP-1 release.

Peak DNA’s Functional Nutrition Protocol for Weight Loss & Gut Health

Daily Routine

Morning:

1/  Oats with apple peels & berries (polyphenols + prebiotic fiber)

2/ Collagen peptides (in coffee, tea, or smoothie) to support gut lining

3/ Green tea or matcha for polyphenols

Midday:

1/ Protein-rich meal (eggs, fatty fish, or pastured meat) for gut-supportive amino acids

2/ Resistant starch (cooled potatoes, legumes, or green bananas) for SCFA production

3/ 1 Tbsp ghee or MCT oil to enhance butyrate levels

Evening:

1/ Bone broth or gelatin-based dessert for gut healing

2/ Dark chocolate (85%+ cocoa) or red wine (moderation) for polyphenols

3/ Akkermansia probiotic supplement before bed

Conclusion: A Natural Path to GLP-1 Optimization and Weight Loss

Rather than relying solely on pharmaceuticals, Peak DNA’s functional nutrition approach priorities gut health, metabolic balance, and natural GLP-1 stimulation.

By incorporating Akkermansia-enhancing foods, collagen supplementation, and polyphenol-rich sources, you can support weight loss, improve insulin sensitivity, and enhance overall gut health—naturally and sustainably.

For those who have used or are considering GLP-1 drugs, this approach helps preserve metabolic health and prevent weight regain once medication is stopped. A gut-first strategy is the key to long-term success.