GLP-1 Medications & Nutrition: What You Need to Know
Over the past year, GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) have become household names. Originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes, they’re now widely used for weight loss. But what are they really doing in the body—and does nutrition still play a critical role?
As a nutritionist working with women, I often get asked:
"Should I take it? Is it safe? Do I still need to eat well if I’m on it?"
Let’s take a deeper look.
What is GLP-1 and What Do These Medications Do?
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone naturally produced in the gut. It’s released in response to eating and plays a key role in blood sugar regulation, satiety, and digestion.
GLP-1 medications mimic this hormone, leading to:
Delayed stomach emptying (you feel fuller, longer)
Increased insulin secretion
Reduced appetite
Decreased food intake
These effects can result in significant weight loss and improved blood sugar control.
Benefits
Weight Loss and Metabolic Health: GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) have demonstrated significant weight loss benefits. A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that tirzepatide users lost an average of 20.2% of their body weight, compared to 13.7% for those on semaglutide. Both medications also improved waist circumference and cardiovascular risk factors.
Cancer Risk Reduction: A study published in The Lancet’s eClinicalMedicine revealed that GLP-1 drugs such as liraglutide, exenatide, and dulaglutide may reduce the risk of obesity-related cancers by nearly 50%.
Side Effects
Gastrointestinal Issues: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation, primarily due to delayed gastric emptying.
Gallbladder Problems: Rapid weight loss can increase the risk of gallstones and gallbladder-related issues.
Muscle Loss; Without adequate protein intake and resistance training, there is a risk of losing lean muscle mass during rapid weight loss.
These side effects often occur because GLP-1 slows digestion and alters how your body senses hunger. As a result, the digestive system may become sluggish, and the body may struggle to adjust to a new pattern of eating and fullness.
Why Nutrition Still Matters
While GLP-1 medications help with weight loss and appetite suppression, they do not replace the need for a balanced, nutrient-dense diet.
To preserve muscle mass, support detoxification, balance hormones, and maintain long-term metabolic health, you still need:
Adequate protein (especially if weight is dropping quickly)
Fibre to support gut health and blood sugar balance
Healthy fats for hormone production
Micronutrients to support thyroid, brain, and mitochondrial health
A strong nutritional foundation ensures that you not only lose weight—but stay strong, energised, and well-nourished in the process.
What the Research Says
There’s a growing body of clinical research supporting GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight loss, diabetes management, and cardiovascular protection. However, much of the long-term data is still emerging.
These medications are most effective—and safest—when used as part of a comprehensive, supervised health plan.
The Need for Medical Supervision
It is essential to use GLP-1 medications under medical supervision.
Self-prescribing or purchasing these drugs online without proper guidance can be dangerous. A qualified healthcare provider can:
Monitor side effects
Adjust dosages as needed
Ensure your nutrition, lifestyle, and medications are working together
Final Thoughts
GLP-1 medications are a powerful tool, but they’re not a standalone solution. They can support weight loss and metabolic health, but true, long-term wellbeing comes from what you do every day. What you eat, how you sleep, how you move, and how you manage stress all play a role. Nutrition remains foundational - for preserving muscle, supporting hormones, and sustaining your energy and health far beyond the medication.