A California-based dietitian, Ashley Koff, has recently unveiled a selection of supplements that may enhance the effects of popular weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. These medications, which mimic the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), are used by approximately one in eight American adults, translating to around 30 million people. While these drugs have transformed weight loss and diabetes management, their side effects often necessitate dietary adjustments.
Koff’s insights come from her newly released book, Your Best Shot: The Personalized System for Optimal Weight Health – GLP-1 Shot or Not, published on January 6, 2026. She emphasizes that supplements can complement the action of GLP-1 medications but cannot replace them, particularly for those who require these drugs for health reasons.
Potential Supplements for Weight Management
In a conversation with the Daily Mail, Koff outlined several key supplements that may bolster the effects of GLP-1 injections. Traditional options such as omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fiber are known to support digestion and promote a feeling of fullness. Additionally, Koff highlighted less familiar supplements like berberine and Amarasate, which may stimulate the body’s natural production of GLP-1.
One of the most notable supplements mentioned is berberine, a compound derived from various herbs, including barberry and Oregon grape. Historically used in herbal medicine to treat infections and digestive troubles, it is now available in supplement form for managing blood sugar levels and weight. Koff noted that berberine could cost between $10 and $50 per bottle. It works by activating bitter taste receptors in the gut, which can lead to an increase in GLP-1 secretion. However, she cautioned that it may interact with medications used to control blood pressure and cholesterol.
Another supplement Koff pointed out is Akkermansia muciniphila, a beneficial gut bacterium found in fermented foods like kimchi and kefir. This probiotic has been shown to enhance gut health and stimulate GLP-1 production. While Akkermansia does not come directly from food, its levels can be increased by consuming polyphenol-rich foods such as berries and green tea. Supplements containing this bacterium typically range from $20 to $80 per bottle.
Koff also recommended glutamine, the most abundant amino acid in the body. Found in both animal and plant-based foods, glutamine can support the secretion of GLP-1 when taken as a supplement. Prices for glutamine capsules generally range from $10 to $35, while powdered forms cost between $10 and $40.
Alternative Options for Appetite Control
The dietitian also introduced Amarasate, an extract derived from New Zealand hops. This supplement is marketed for appetite control and can stimulate GLP-1 release similarly to berberine. Priced between $70 and $90 for a 90-capsule bottle, Amarasate may be particularly beneficial for individuals transitioning off GLP-1 medications, as it promotes hormone production with minimal side effects.
Koff emphasized that while these supplements may aid weight management and enhance the effects of GLP-1 medications, no natural supplement can fully replicate the action of pharmaceutical treatments. “There is a lot of misinformation about supplements,” Koff stated. “There is no ‘nature’s Ozempic’; no supplement works exactly like the medications do.”
The conversation surrounding weight loss supplements and medications continues to evolve, reflecting a growing interest in personalized health solutions. Koff’s recommendations provide valuable insights for those interested in optimizing their weight management strategies, especially in conjunction with prescribed medications.
Your Best Shot is now available through major retailers including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and HarperCollins Publishers. As the landscape of weight loss continues to change, individuals are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals before starting any new supplement regimen.
