A physicians Christ-Centered Perspective on GLP-1 Medications
GLP-1 medications — such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound), and liraglutide (Saxenda) — have become increasingly popular tools for weight loss due to their ability to reduce appetite and slow gastric emptying.
For individuals struggling with obesity or overweight-related health conditions, these medications can offer significant benefits, including improved metabolic health, reduced cardiovascular risk, and increased ability to adopt healthier habits.
However, they are not without risks. Common side effects include nausea, constipation, and gastrointestinal discomfort, while more serious concerns may include pancreatitis, gastroparesis, or gallbladder issues.
It’s important to remember that these medications are not a substitute for healthy habits and are not intended for lifelong use, particularly in individuals without diabetes.
A Biblical View of the Body
Even as we care for our physical health, we must remember how God views our bodies:
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?
You are not your own; you were bought at a price.
Therefore, honor God with your bodies.”
— 1 Corinthians 6:19–20
This truth reminds us that our bodies are not merely vessels for appearance or function—they are sacred spaces meant to glorify God.
Stewardship and Healthy Habits
If you are using a GLP-1 medication, it’s vital to continue practicing healthy habits that support long-term success:
Eat a balanced diet rich in lean protein, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.
Stay physically active through regular movement, strength training, and cardiovascular exercise.
Drink plenty of water to aid digestion and hydration.
Prioritize sleep to support metabolism and hormone balance.
These practices not only enhance the medication’s effects but also prepare your body and mind for when the medication is no longer part of your routine.
Protein intake is especially important to preserve muscle mass during weight loss, and hydration plays a crucial role in supporting digestion—especially since GLP-1s can slow gastric emptying.
Inner Transformation
As you care for your physical body, don’t neglect your inner life, which holds even greater eternal value:
“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment...
Rather, it should be that of your inner self,
the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit,
which is of great worth in God’s sight.”
— 1 Peter 3:3–4
Our efforts to pursue health are meaningful, but our identity and worth are not measured by size or weight.
They rest in the unchanging truth that we are:
“Fearfully and wonderfully made.”
— Psalm 139:14
The Purpose of the Journey
The goal of using GLP-1 medications should not simply be to lose weight, but to create lasting, healthy changes in your relationship with food and body stewardship.
These medications can serve as a reset—an opportunity to learn how to eat mindfully, recognize true hunger cues, and establish a sustainable rhythm with meals.
When hunger returns after stopping the medication, those who have developed balanced habits are far more likely to maintain their progress.
“For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works,
which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
— Ephesians 2:10
Your health journey is not just about physical transformation—it’s about living in the fullness of who God created you to be: strong, purposeful, and walking with Him.
“So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do—even weight loss—
do it all for the glory of God.”
— 1 Corinthians 10:31
Your body is a gift.
Your worth is secure.
And your journey, when rooted in both grace and truth, can be a beautiful testimony of God’s goodness.
Dr. Frank’s Hot Take
GLP-1 medications, originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, are increasingly prescribed for weight loss—but they carry real risks, particularly for individuals who are not medically obese (BMI < 30) and are seeking to lose smaller amounts of weight.
Potential side effects include nausea, vomiting, gallbladder issues, and, in rare cases, pancreatitis, gastroparesis, or thyroid tumors. No weight-loss medication is completely without risk, and using these drugs without clear medical indication can lead to unnecessary complications.
If you’re considering a GLP-1 medication, discuss it thoroughly with your healthcare provider to weigh potential benefits and risks based on your personal health profile.
The safest and most sustainable path to weight management remains the timeless foundation of:
A healthy, balanced diet
Portion control
Regular exercise and movement
Ryan Frank, D.O.
Dr. Frank completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Missouri and obtained his Doctor of Osteopathy at the Kansas City University of Medicine in 2011. From there he moved on to the University of Nebraska-Omaha for his 3 year residency where he was the Chief Resident. Dr. Frank was the Chief of Family Medicine at Buckley Air Force Base for 3 years prior to joining our practice in 2017. Dr. Frank is known for his personable interactions and listening skills as well as his strong and thorough clinical and leadership abilities. He is interested in whole family care from infants to the elderly and he is passionate about implementing the appropriate care after truly understanding our patients' needs.
Dr. Frank is married and has 4 children. They live in Parker and as a family, enjoy sports and all of the outdoor activities that Colorado has to offer.
