GLP-1's & Alcohol Use Disorder with Dr. Brooke Scheller

In this insightful episode, Molly sits down once again with Dr. Brooke Scheller, clinical nutritionist and founder of Functional Sobriety, to discuss one of the most buzzed-about topics in the health and wellness space: GLP-1 medications (like Ozempic and Wegovy). Originally developed for treating Type 2 diabetes and now widely prescribed for weight loss, these drugs are increasingly being talked about for their potential to reduce alcohol cravings.

Together, Molly and Dr. Scheller unpack the growing curiosity (and concern) surrounding the off-label use of GLP-1s by those trying to moderate or change their drinking habits. They dive deep into both the science and the speculation—discussing small but intriguing studies, anecdotal feedback from clients and community members, and what it really means to find a “magic pill” for reducing desire.

But this episode doesn’t stop at surface-level discussion. They explore the bigger picture: sustainable behavior change, the role of nutrition in alcohol use, and whether it's possible to replicate the effects of GLP-1s with food, lifestyle, and mindset shifts alone.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• What GLP-1 medications are and how they work
• Why they might reduce alcohol cravings—and what the science says so far
• Who might benefit most from GLP-1s—and who should be cautious
• Common side effects and risks associated with these drugs
• Natural strategies to support craving reduction and metabolic health
• Why addressing core beliefs about alcohol is critical to long-term change

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Dr. Brooke Scheller’s program: Functional Sobriety
• Dr. Scheller’s book: How to Eat to Change How You Drink

Connect with Molly:
Website: www.mollywatts.com
Instagram: @alcoholminimalist
Join the Private Facebook Community: “Alcohol Minimalists: Change Your Drinking Habits”

Want to Change Your Drinking?
Download Molly’s free guide “Alcohol Truths 2023” and learn how to identify your personal safe level of drinking at mollywatts.com/resources

Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:

Healthy men under 65:

No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.

Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:
No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.

One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.

Abstinence from alcohol
Abstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.

Benefits of “low-risk” drinking
Following these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work.

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