Guest Article by Dr. Caroline Fife, MD

Hi Everyone!

I’m excited to share an article written by one of my incredible clients, Dr. Caroline Fife. As a world renowned wound care specialist, Dr. Fife brings a unique perspective on health and healing. She has a strong interest in the anti-inflammatory properties of GLP-1s and their potential to tackle obesity as the root cause of numerous serious medical issues, while also offering hope for chronic inflammatory conditions. It’s been a privilege to support her fitness journey and gain valuable insights from her expertise in healthcare.

GLP-1 RAs and Their Possible Use for Addiction and Inflammatory Conditions?

by Caroline Fife, M.D. | Nov 13, 2024 | Fight the Good Fight, Nutrition & Wound Healing |

I have no affiliation with any pharmaceutical company, and I continue to be cautious about the Glucagon-like peptide receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) craze. However, I am paying attention to this family of drugs because for more than three decades I have watched with a feeling of growing helplessness as the average weight of my patients continued its upward trajectory, along with the list of associated health complications. I had to get bigger chairs in the waiting room, a scale that could weigh patients up to 700 lbs, a special electric wheelchair that could handle patients up to 700 lbs, and new exam tables that could handle very heavy patients. Over the years, I went from seeing patients who weighed over 300 lbs to patients who weighed over 600 lbs. Their non-healing wound(s) were a symptom of all their associated medical problems, and the root of nearly all these problems was obesity. I have been putting band aids (well, dressings) on the symptom and have had nothing to offer the underlying problem. This family of drugs is the first real hope I have had to change the trajectory of the crisis. I am worried about a lot of issues related to these drugs – because the real problem is what and how much people eat. (I can say that because I have fought a battle with my own weight for decades.) However, these drugs might provide some hope that, until now, has been lacking.

An article in JAMA Network Medical News & Perspectives discusses the potential use of the GLP-1 Receptor Agonists to treat addiction, Alzheimer’s and perhaps other conditions. It discusses the fact that patients may be more likely to stop smoking and perhaps other addictive substances like alcohol and perhaps even cocaine.

Personally, I am most interested in their possible anti-inflammatory effects. A friend who started taking a GLP-1RA for weight loss mentioned that their refractory hip bursitis disappeared within two weeks of starting the drug. Looking into it, I found this article about their anti-inflammatory properties.

I am fascinated by this potential anti-inflammatory effect because data from the US Wound Registry shows that nearly 16% of patients with diabetic foot ulcers also have an autoimmune or inflammatory condition.  That number is astounding! Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists have emerged as promising therapeutic agents with potent anti-inflammatory properties. The article says:

“GLP-1RAs may modulate inflammatory responses since GLP-1 receptors are present in immune cells such as macrophages, monocytes, and lymphocytes.24,35 Through their interactions with GLP-1RAs, immune cell signals are modulated inside the cell. Pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, are suppressed by GLP-1R in immune cells.33,36 Furthermore, GLP-1RAs can boost the generation of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10, which helps to mitigate inflammation and restore immune balance.33 However, there is strong evidence that central and peripheral immune responses undergo pathological alterations and develop with time.37”

I do not have a financial interest in the use of these drugs. But I do care about finding help for patients.

Caroline Fife, M.D.

Website: carolinefifemd.com

You Tube: @CarolineFifeMD

The Promising Potential of Integrating Fitness and GLP-1s: My Thoughts

GLP-1 medications and fitness may intersect to offer a promising approach to weight management and overall health improvement. By combining GLP-1 medications, which help regulate appetite and reduce caloric intake, with exercise, which boosts energy expenditure, individuals may experience enhanced weight loss and improved health outcomes. Additionally, the weight loss facilitated by GLP-1s can reduce joint strain and improve mobility, making physical activity more accessible and enjoyable. Both GLP-1s and fitness independently reduce inflammation, and together, they may create a synergistic effect that supports overall well-being.

However, it's important to remember that GLP-1 medications are not suitable for everyone and should be considered as part of a broader, balanced approach to health and fitness.

Always consult with your physician to determine if this approach is suitable for you.