Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medications, such as Ozempic®, Mounjaro®, Wegovy® and Saxenda® are growing in popularity and changing the ways we digest and approach food. Working with a Registered Dietitian while using these medications can help you keep your body nourished. Registered Dietitian Nutritionists address deficiencies with tailored meal plans that support your body’s needs while taking certain medications.
How GLP-1 Drugs Affect Digestion and Appetite
GLP-1 drugs help the body produce more insulin, slow digestion and reduce appetite. Individuals typically take GLP-1 drugs to control blood sugar levels and manage type-2 diabetes. However, more people are starting to
use these drugs for weight loss and to help manage conditions like kidney disease, heart disease, lipid disorders and fatty liver disease.
A GLP-1 drug reduces appetite by mimicking the naturally occurring hormone
known as glucagon-like peptide 1. This hormone sends signals to the brain to make you feel full after eating and experience fewer food cravings. It also causes the stomach to empty slowly, prolonging the feeling of fullness or satiety after a meal. The drug’s ability to reduce cravings often causes people to reduce meal portions and reach for more nutritious options.
How GLP-1 Drugs Impact Nutrition
GLP-1 drugs can increase or decrease nutrition depending on an individual’s eating patterns. Reduced cravings can help people eat more nutritious foods, but it can also lead to lower food intake and lower nutrient levels.
A GLP-1 drug’s ability to curb appetite can cause nutrient deficiencies in the following ways:
- Reduced food intake: Changes in appetite can cause individuals to reduce food intake or change the types of food they eat, which may limit the nutrients they receive. If you take a GLP-1 drug, you must still consume the nutrients your body needs.
- Decreased bone mineral density: Individuals who use GLP-1 drugs and lose significant weight can experience decreased bone density. Regaining or maintaining bone strength is necessary for mobility and overall quality of life.
- Gastrointestinal side effects: Potential gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, can hinder the body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients.
Nutrient Deficiencies to Watch For
It’s important to talk to a doctor before using a GLP-1 drug. You should also consult a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist to find a meal plan that supports your body’s needs while taking this type of drug. A Registered Dietitian can help ensure you get enough of these key nutrients:
- Protein: Protein is essential for bone, skin, muscle, blood and tissue health. It also supports metabolic reactions, helps maintain proper fluid and pH balance, and is an excellent energy source. Foods high in protein include seafood, poultry, red meat, unsalted seeds and nuts, peas, beans, and soy products.
- Calcium: The body depends on calcium for bone health, proper circulation, hormonal balance, nerve health and muscle health. Calcium is present in various foods, such as vegetables, dairy products, fish and seeds.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D supports the immune system, muscles and nerves. It also helps the body absorb calcium. Salmon, egg yolks and milk are rich in vitamin D. The body also needs nutritious fats like olive oil, avocados and nuts to absorb vitamin D because it’s a fat-soluble vitamin.
- Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12 is beneficial for energy, red blood cell production and healthy nerve cells. Fish, meat, dairy and soy products are high in vitamin B12.
- Iron: Iron is a vital nutrient for energy, immune system functioning and blood health. Red meat, organ meats, seafood, poultry, beans, nuts, vegetables and whole grains can provide the body with iron.
Potential Side Effects of GLP-1 Drugs
In addition to reduced appetite and potential nutritional deficiencies, GLP-1 drugs can cause these common side effects:
- Gastrointestinal adverse events, such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, abdominal pain, constipation and diarrhea
- Gallstones
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Increased heart rate
- Fatigue
GLP-1 drugs can also cause these side effects in rare cases:
The risk of side effects is low, but it’s important to talk to a health care provider if you experience them.
How to Increase GLP-1 Naturally
A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist can help you achieve your nutrition goals. If you want to increase GLP-1 naturally, they can
personalize a sustainable meal plan that prioritizes fiber, protein and nutritional fats to support GLP-1 production.
Individual nutritional counseling can also
help you develop lifestyle habits like exercise, improved sleep and stress management to help increase GLP-1 levels.
How the Rise in GLP-1 Medication Usage Increases the Demand for Dietitians
Approximately
13% of American adults have taken a GLP-1 drug, and overall public awareness of GLP-1 drugs
increased by approximately 13% between July 2023 and May 2024.
