There’s no denying that GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy are having a moment. You’ve probably seen the headlines, heard friends talking about them, or maybe even wondered if you should try one yourself. They’re everywhere—and they’ve sparked a bigger conversation about how we approach appetite, metabolism, and weight.
But here’s the thing: not everyone wants to take a prescription drug or give themselves injections to support their wellness goals. And if that’s you, you’re not alone. A lot of people are asking if there’s a simpler, more natural way to support appetite awareness or healthy weight management, without going the pharmaceutical route.
Quick note: This article isn’t here to tell you what you should or shouldn’t do when it comes to medications. It’s not medical advice, and it’s definitely not a substitute for a conversation with your doctor. I’m simply exploring what’s out there for people who are curious about non-prescription alternatives.
Let’s dig into what that looks like.
The Basics: What GLP-1 Actually Does
GLP-1 stands for “glucagon-like peptide-1,” which is just a fancy way of saying it’s a hormone your body naturally makes. Its job? Helping you feel full after eating and playing a role in how your body manages blood sugar. It’s one of many signals that help regulate hunger, digestion, and metabolism behind the scenes.
The prescription medications getting all the buzz right now are GLP-1 receptor agonists—meaning they’re designed to mimic this natural hormone and activate the same pathways. These medications are typically prescribed for people with type 2 diabetes or those navigating weight-related concerns under medical guidance.
That said, many people are simply interested in the idea of what GLP-1 does—and wondering if there are gentler, food-based or supplement-based ways to support those same types of body signals.
Why Some People Are Looking for GLP-1 Alternatives
While GLP-1 medications have made a big impact, they may not be the right fit for everyone. Some people are hesitant about the idea of taking a prescription drug long-term. Others might be uncomfortable with injections, have concerns about side effects, or simply prefer to try something more natural first.
There’s also the accessibility piece. Not everyone has easy access to these medications, and even for those who do, the cost or commitment might feel like too much. That’s led a growing number of people to ask: Are there other ways to support appetite awareness or healthy habits—without going the pharmaceutical route?
This curiosity has opened the door to exploring non-prescription options, especially those made from food-based or plant-derived ingredients.
A More Accessible Option: Plant-Derived Peptides
One of the most talked-about alternatives right now? Peptides—specifically plant-based peptides. These naturally occurring compounds are made up of short chains of amino acids and are often studied for how they communicate with the body’s systems, including those related to metabolism and appetite.
Unlike GLP-1 medications, which are synthetic and require a prescription, plant-based peptides are available in everyday supplements. One example is the blend used in MAKE Wellness LEAN, which contains Bioactive Precision Peptides™. These types of ingredients are being explored for their ability to support satiety and fat utilization—without the need for injections or pharmaceutical intervention.
Curious how plant-based peptides actually work? Start here: Are Plant-Based Peptides Effective?
Want to learn more about the science behind these specific blends? Check out What Are Bioactive Precision Peptides?
How They Compare (Without Going Too Deep)
GLP-1 medications and plant-derived peptide supplements might both show up in conversations about appetite and metabolism, but they’re not the same thing—and they’re not trying to be.
GLP-1 drugs are prescription-only, synthetic compounds that are injected and tightly regulated. They’re designed to mimic a specific hormone and have very targeted, medical applications. They also come with oversight, cycling protocols, and—for many people—a significant investment.
On the other hand, peptide supplements like those found in MAKE Wellness LEAN are plant-based, oral, and accessible. They’re not meant to replace medication, but they may appeal to people who are looking for something gentler and easier to integrate into a daily routine.
If you’re curious about how these approaches differ in a bit more detail, check out The Difference Between Therapeutic and Bioactive Peptides.
What to Keep in Mind Before Choosing Anything
If you’re thinking about trying something new—whether it’s a supplement, a prescription, or a complete shift in routine—it helps to pause and ask a few simple questions. What are your goals? How involved do you want the process to be? Are you looking for something medically supervised or more flexible?
There’s no one right answer here. But it’s worth remembering that not all wellness products are created equally. If you’re exploring plant-based peptides, take a moment to understand where the ingredients come from, how they’re processed, and what the company shares about their purpose. MAKE Wellness has my support in all areas!
And of course, if you’re ever unsure, it’s always a good idea to talk with a trusted healthcare provider before making big changes.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to follow the crowd or jump into prescriptions to be part of the wellness conversation. Whether you’re exploring GLP-1 medications with your doctor or just curious about gentler, plant-based options, the most important thing is choosing what feels right for you.
If you’re interested in learning more about food-derived peptides, their role in wellness, and how they’re being used in modern supplements, you’re in the right place. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution—but there are options, and you deserve to know what they are. Check out MAKE Wellness and their product line up for some pretty awesome plant-based peptide solutions!
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this article, made available via Holistic Fit LLC, are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. The Content presented here is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you think you may be suffering from any medical condition, you should seek immediate medical attention. You should never delay seeking medical advice, disregard medical advice, or discontinue medical treatment because of information provided by Holistic Fit LLC. Reliance on any information provided by this article is solely at your own risk. The author is not a licensed medical professional. References to specific products, research, or external websites are for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsements or recommendations. Individual results may vary. Readers are encouraged to consult updated sources and verify information as scientific knowledge evolves. And, of course, never use a new product, herb or essential oil without first reading the label, doing your research, or checking with a local expert.
Trina Krug is a Holistic Nutritionist, Integrative Health Coach and host of the Carbless Conversations Podcast. With a Master’s Degree in Complementary and Alternative Medicine, her single mission in life is to facilitate self-healing in herself and those around her through awareness, lifestyle shifts and low-carb eating. As a current Doctor of Science student, she continues her studies in functional nutrition.