Gut Instincts: How GLP-1s Are Reshaping Weight Loss

Presenter: Brice Thompson, ND, MS
Original Date: February 8, 2026

Obesity care is being reshaped by GLP-1 receptor agonists—medications that harness gut-derived signals to curb appetite and improve metabolic health. This session, Gut Instincts: How GLP-1s Are Reshaping Weight Loss, introduces naturopathic physicians to the science and clinical promise of therapies such as semaglutide and tirzepatide. We will explore core mechanisms along the gut-brain axis, highlight emerging clinical outcomes, and outline key considerations for real-world use, including patient selection, dosing strategies, safety monitoring, and long-term care. Finally, the talk positions GLP-1 therapy within a truly integrative framework, illustrating how pharmacology, lifestyle medicine, and holistic gut health principles can work together to support sustainable weight management and whole-person health.

Bio: Brice D. Thompson, ND, MS (he/him), is an Assistant Professor at the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) and an Assistant Research Investigator at NUNM’s Helfgott Research Institute. He earned his Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine and a master’s in Integrative Medical Research from NUNM in 2018. Following this, he completed a NIH-funded T90 post-doctoral fellowship in clinical pharmacology at the University of Washington’s School of Pharmacy (2018–2020), deepening his expertise in natural product–drug interactions, pharmacokinetics, and microbiome influences on health.

At NUNM’s College of Naturopathic Medicine, College of Classical Chinese Medicine, and School of Undergraduate & Graduate Studies, Dr. Thompson teaches core courses such as Pharmacology, Evidence-Based Medicine, and Immunology. He leads and designs clinical trials at Helfgott, including safety, feasibility pilot studies, and dietary supplement pharmacokinetic research.

Dedicated to mentoring future integrative clinicians and scientists, Dr. Thompson combines rigorous research methods with a patient-focused approach, aiming to connect laboratory research, clinical trials, and practical application to enhance health outcomes.

NUNM is accredited by the North American Naturopathic Continuing Education Council (NANCEAC). This activity qualifies for 1.5 Pharmacology CEUs Total.