​​Understanding GLP-1 Weight-Loss Drugs and How Herbalife Fills the Nutritional Gap​

Weight-loss drugs, specifically GLP-1 agonists, have received significant attention as rapid weight-loss solutions, igniting both optimism and questions about their efficacy and long-term impact on patients’ health.

Originally designed to manage Type-2 diabetes, these medications have evolved into a primary choice for consumers seeking fast weight-loss results. But that doesn’t mean it’s the right choice for all, and it doesn’t change the fact that our bodies still need a consistent daily intake of important macronutrients and micronutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals.

While weight-loss drugs are likely here to stay and have the potential to improve lives and open doors for people who have not been able to achieve a healthy weight through traditional methods, it’s important to remember that good health goes beyond weight loss.

Understanding Weight-Loss Drugs and How They Work

GLP-1 drugs mimic the satiety hormone, GLP-1, inducing a constant sense of fullness. This is accomplished because there are receptors for this hormone at the stomach, which delays gastric emptying, and in parts of the brain, which triggers a decrease in the desire to eat. Our body normally produces the GLP-1 hormone, and this natural hormone is degraded by the body fairly quickly, within minutes. However, the GLP-1 analog mimics the natural hormone in our body but does not degrade for days in the injection form – creating a constant decreased desire to eat.

Balancing Expectations and Caution

While effective for weight loss, GLP-1 agonists are a medically prescribed solution that comes with both short-term and long-term considerations. Among them, the constant feeling of fullness reduces appetite and potential intake of vital nutrients. When the body is deprived of these nutrients, it can lead to decreased energy, a reduction in muscle density, disruption of normal bowel movements, and overall malnutrition.

Published studies underscore a common thread of weight regain after stopping GLP-1 medications, highlighting the need for complementary nutritional products and lasting healthy, active lifestyle habits necessary for patients to retain their results over time. No drug, including GLP-1 medications, can be effective in supporting one’s long-term health without these fundamental shifts in habits.

As a company that has been providing science-backed, nutrient-dense nutrition products around the world since 1980, we stand by our position that foundational lifestyle changes and behaviors are crucial for sustained weight management and overall health.

As Herbalife Independent Distributors continue serving customers who may now be using these weight-loss drugs, we know that Herbalife is uniquely positioned to offer complementary nutrition solutions that acknowledge the gaps associated with weight-loss drugs.

Filling the Nutrition Gaps

Introducing the Herbalife® GLP-1 Nutrition Companion: a new combo of products to support the nutritional needs of customers who may be using GLP-1 or other weight-loss medications. Herbalife’s new Classic and Vegan options in a variety of flavors are now available in the United States and Puerto Rico.

The Herbalife® GLP-1 Nutrition Companion includes:

Classic Product Combo

• Formula 1 Healthy Meal Nutritional Shake Mix (the World's #1 Protein Shake*)
• Protein Drink Mix
• Active Fiber Complex

Active Fiber ComplexVegan Product Combo

• HERBALIFE V Plant-Based Protein Shake, Classic and Chocolate
• HERBALIFE V Plant-Based Digestive Support†
• HERBALIFE V Plant-Based Greens Booster

Key Nutrients Offered: Protein and Fiber

For nearly 43 years, Herbalife, with our Formula 1 Healthy Meal Nutritional Shake Mix, has had one of the best-, if not the best-, tasting high-protein meal replacement shakes with, when prepared as directed, 24 grams of high-quality protein that supports lean muscle mass, along with 21 essential vitamins and minerals. The combination of products offered in our Classic combo is time-tested and used by millions of people around the world.

• Protein: Each product combo provides vital protein to help build muscle tissue and maintain lean muscle mass while providing energy
• Fiber: Recognizing the microbiome’s pivotal role in weight loss and GLP-1 signaling, each combo provides an excellent source of fiber to promote regularity and a healthy digestive system, addressing the lack of fiber in diets of weight-loss drug patients
• Added Benefits: The Classic combo also delivers essential vitamins and minerals to support overall health, while the Vegan combo also delivers three organic blends of 20 fruits and vegetables that consumers may not be getting in their diet every day

Beyond Nutrition: Our Distributor Difference

Beyond our nutrition offerings, Herbalife Independent Distributors are committed Wellness Coaches and accountability partners. For customers who may be using GLP-1s, the one-on-one attention that Wellness Coaches provide is one of the most effective ways to sustain a healthy and active lifestyle routine that will help keep them from regaining weight after they stop using weight-loss medications, including GLP-1s.

Recognizing the potential impact of GLP-1 drugs on protein loss and muscle density, we continue to offer complementary products to fill critical nutrition gaps for patients experiencing these common side effects.

Empowering Informed Choices

In navigating the landscape of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, it is crucial to maintain a balanced perspective, weighing the benefits against potential risks. The Herbalife GLP-1® Nutrition Companion stands as a complementary tool for patients on weight-loss drugs, including those on GLP-1s, addressing their nutritional needs and fostering lasting habits can be the basis for long-term good health.

The Herbalife® GLP-1 Nutrition Companion is not a drug. Remember to consult your physician before you make changes to your diet during medically supervised weight loss.


*Source Euromonitor International Limited; per Consumer Health 2024ed, Protein Shake as per sports protein powder, sports protein RTDs, meal replacement, supplement nutrition drinks and protein supplements, combined % RSP share GBO, 2023 data.

†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.