Starting My GLP-1 Journey After 50
If you’ve been around The Cozy Gigi for a while, you know I believe in comfort, confidence, and being honest about the little chaos life throws our way.
Turning 50 has definitely brought some changes — especially when it comes to my health. Hormones shift, metabolism slows down, and suddenly the things that used to work for weight and energy just… don’t anymore.
After doing a lot of reading, talking with my doctor, and thinking about how I want to feel moving forward, I’ve decided to start a GLP-1 journey.
I’m sharing it here because I know I’m not the only woman over 50 trying to figure all of this out. My hope is that by being open about my experience — the good, the hard, and everything in between — it might help someone else who’s considering the same path.
What Is GLP-1?
Before I start sharing my personal experience, I wanted to explain a little about what GLP-1 actually is.
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, which is a hormone our bodies naturally produce. This hormone helps regulate blood sugar, signals when we’re full, and plays a role in digestion and appetite.
The medications you may have heard about — things like Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda, and Trulicity — work by mimicking this hormone.
In simple terms, they help:
• control blood sugar
• reduce appetite
• slow digestion
• help the body respond better to insulin
Originally these medications were created to treat type 2 diabetes, but they’re now also being used to support weight management.
Why Women Over 50 Are Talking About GLP-1
One thing I’ve learned over the past few years is that menopause changes a lot more than we expect.
Many women start noticing things like:
• weight gain (especially around the middle)
• changes in blood sugar
• higher cholesterol
• lower energy levels
Even if you’re eating well and staying active, it can suddenly feel much harder to maintain the weight and energy you had before.
GLP-1 medications don’t fix hormones directly, but they can help support some of these changes.
Some of the potential benefits include:
Better Blood Sugar Stability
These medications help prevent big spikes and crashes in blood sugar, which can make energy feel more steady throughout the day.
Help With Weight Management
Many people naturally feel full sooner, which can make portion sizes smaller without constantly feeling hungry.
Support for Heart Health
Some studies suggest GLP-1 medications may help improve cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation, which is important since heart disease risk increases after menopause.
Improved Energy and Motivation
When blood sugar and weight begin to stabilize, many people say they feel more motivated to move and stay active.
Important First Steps Before Starting
Before starting any medication like this, it’s really important to talk with your healthcare provider.
A doctor will usually check things like:
• blood pressure
• blood sugar levels
• cholesterol
• kidney and liver function
They’ll also review your medical history to make sure GLP-1 is a safe option for you.
There are certain conditions — like some thyroid cancers or pancreatitis — where these medications may not be recommended.
Cost and insurance coverage are also something to consider, since these medications can be expensive depending on your plan.
Possible Side Effects
Like any medication, GLP-1 treatments can come with side effects, especially when you first start.
The most common ones include:
• nausea
• constipation
• diarrhea
• feeling full very quickly
Many doctors start patients on a very low dose and increase it gradually so the body has time to adjust.
Some things that may help include:
• drinking plenty of water
• eating smaller meals
• choosing nutrient-dense foods
• staying active with light movement like walking
And of course, keeping your doctor informed about how you’re feeling along the way.
A Few Things I’m Keeping in Mind
One thing I’ve learned while researching GLP-1 is that it’s not a magic fix.
It’s a tool.
Healthy habits still matter — things like eating nourishing foods, staying active, getting good sleep, and managing stress.
For me, the goal isn’t just weight loss. It’s feeling healthier, having more energy, and taking better care of my body as I move through this next stage of life.
Why I’m Sharing My Journey
Starting something new like this can feel a little intimidating.
That’s why I decided to document my experience here on the blog. I’ll be sharing updates about:
• how the medication feels
• changes I notice
• things that help along the way
• the challenges too
Because real life health journeys are rarely perfect.
If you’re a woman over 50 who has been curious about GLP-1 medications, I hope my experience can offer some insight and encouragement.
And as always, make sure to talk with your own healthcare provider before making any decisions about your health.
Final Thoughts
Getting older doesn’t mean giving up on feeling strong, confident, and healthy.
Sometimes it just means being open to new tools and new approaches.
This is just the beginning of my GLP-1 journey — and I’m glad you’re here with me for it.
This article shares my personal experience and research. It should not replace advice from your heathcare provider.
Things that help me star on track:
My YMCA membership!
My Nespresso powder! Helps me make a healthier protein coffee! https://amzn.to/46M8L9h
The cups, lids, and straws to make it look fresh from the coffee shop! https://amzn.to/4uhU8Eu
The syrup 😉 https://amzn.to/4uhU8Eu
The small ice, gotta have it! https://amzn.to/4rTCPIl
and protien milk of your choice. I use Fairlife.