Burds Family Practice · GLP-1 Therapy
More than weight loss. A new chapter in metabolic health.
Semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound) have become household names — but the science is much bigger than the scale. At Burds Family Practice, we offer GLP-1 therapy for weight loss, metabolic optimization, athletic performance, and longevity-focused care.
GLP-1 therapy supports
A bigger conversation
The story is changing.
For years, Wegovy and Zepbound have been talked about as "weight loss drugs." But the research — and the patients walking through our doors — are telling a different, more interesting story.
The old narrative
"It's a weight loss medication."
GLP-1s were marketed primarily as tools for shedding pounds. The conversation rarely went beyond the scale, body mass index, and BMI categories. For many patients, that framing left out everything that matters most.
The fuller picture
"It's a metabolic optimization tool."
GLP-1 medications influence inflammation, cardiovascular function, insulin sensitivity, liver health, and emerging longevity markers. For athletes, high-performers, and patients focused on healthspan, the benefits go far beyond weight loss alone.
The science
What GLP-1 therapy can actually do.
Beyond appetite regulation, these medications are showing remarkable effects across multiple body systems. Here's what current research and clinical experience are demonstrating:
Even in non-diabetic patients, GLP-1 therapy can dramatically improve how your body uses insulin — translating to more stable energy, better recovery, and reduced long-term metabolic risk.
Chronic, low-grade inflammation drives nearly every age-related disease. GLP-1s have demonstrated measurable anti-inflammatory effects in clinical studies.
Large clinical trials have shown GLP-1 medications reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death — even in patients who aren't overweight.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease affects roughly 1 in 4 adults — including many who appear lean. GLP-1 therapy shows significant promise for reducing liver fat and inflammation.
For patients with a weight loss goal, GLP-1s remain one of the most effective tools available — with patients losing 15–22% of body weight in clinical trials.
Better glucose stability often translates to fewer energy crashes, less brain fog, and sharper cognitive function throughout the day.
Many athletes report improved recovery and reduced post-training inflammation, particularly when paired with strength training and proper nutrition.
Emerging research suggests potential effects on cellular aging, autophagy, and biological age markers — making GLP-1s a topic of significant interest in the longevity field.
Who we treat
GLP-1 therapy isn't just for one type of patient.
We work with a wide range of patients pursuing very different goals. Some want to lose weight. Many don't. What unites them is a desire to take control of their long-term health.
Adults struggling with obesity or stubborn weight who want a proven, medically supervised solution.
Athletes seeking better insulin sensitivity, faster recovery, and steadier energy without significant weight changes.
Driven individuals focused on cognitive sharpness, energy stability, and long-term performance.
Patients with strong family histories of diabetes, heart disease, or dementia who want to be proactive.
People in their 40s, 50s, and 60s focused on healthspan, not just lifespan.
Patients who feel "off" despite normal labs and want to optimize before problems develop.
Our approach
GLP-1 therapy done thoughtfully.
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Personalized Lab Work
We don't just hand out prescriptions. We run the labs that matter — metabolic panels, inflammatory markers, A1C, and more — to understand your baseline.
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Goal-Specific Dosing
Aggressive weight loss requires different dosing than metabolic optimization. We tailor your protocol to your actual goals.
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Ongoing Monitoring
Regular check-ins to track progress, manage side effects, and adjust dosing based on how your body actually responds.
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Whole-Person Strategy
Medications work best alongside the foundations: sleep, strength training, protein intake, stress management, and good nutrition. We talk about all of it.
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Real Conversations
Not a quick prescription mill, not a telehealth assembly line. You'll work with a provider who actually knows you and is invested in your outcome.
Our philosophy
GLP-1 medications are a powerful tool — but only when used thoughtfully, paired with the right lifestyle foundations, and guided by a provider who understands the whole picture.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions.
Not necessarily. While these medications are FDA-approved for specific weight-related indications, there's growing clinical interest in their use for metabolic optimization, athletic recovery, and longevity-focused care. We'll review your full health picture, run appropriate labs, and discuss whether GLP-1 therapy aligns with your specific goals.
Semaglutide targets one hormone receptor (GLP-1) and has a longer clinical track record. Tirzepatide targets two receptors (GLP-1 and GIP) and tends to produce slightly greater weight loss and metabolic effects in studies. The right choice depends on your individual health profile and goals.
In many cases, yes. Lower-dose protocols can deliver metabolic and inflammatory benefits with less appetite suppression and minimal weight change. This is a nuanced area that requires individualized dosing — exactly the kind of conversation we have during your consultation.
The most common side effects are gastrointestinal — nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation — especially when starting or increasing the dose. These typically improve as your body adjusts. Starting at lower doses and titrating gradually helps minimize discomfort.
Coverage varies significantly based on your insurance plan and the indication. We can help discuss options and pathways during your consultation. Many patients also explore cash-pay or compounded options depending on their specific situation.
It depends on what you're measuring. Energy stability, reduced cravings, and improved blood sugar response often appear within the first few weeks. Weight changes and lab improvements typically become noticeable over several months. Longevity and inflammatory benefits accumulate over longer periods.
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. GLP-1 medications are prescription drugs that require medical evaluation and supervision. Treatment decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider who can evaluate your individual health history and needs.
Curious if GLP-1 therapy fits your goals?
Whether you're focused on weight loss, athletic performance, metabolic health, or long-term longevity — let's have a real conversation. We'll review your goals, run the right labs, and help you decide if GLP-1 therapy makes sense for you.
📍 8411 Peosta Commercial Ct Suite #8, Peosta, IA 52068 · bfpstaff@burdsfamilypractice.com