GLP-1 Meal Plans
Most people think that jumping on a GLP-1 like Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy, Saxenda, liraglutide, semaglutide or tirzepatide, you don’t need to follow a diet plan. They’re wrong. And it can be a dangerous mistake.
The Importance of a Nutrient-Dense Dietary Plans while Taking GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
Wegovy (semaglutide), Mounjaro (tirzepatide), and Ozempic (semaglutide) are weight loss drugs that belong to a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. These drugs work by increasing the release of insulin, reducing appetite, and slowing down the digestion process, which can lead to weight loss. While they can be effective in helping individuals lose weight, there are potential risks associated with their use, including the risk of malnutrition. Some of the symptoms include dehydration, cramping, diarrhea, fatigue, difficulty focusing and more severe risks including pancreatitis and thyroid cancer.
Malnutrition refers to a condition in which the body does not receive adequate nutrients to function properly. When taking weight loss drugs like Wegovy, Mounjaro, or Ozempic, there are a few factors that can contribute to an increased risk of malnutrition:
Reduced appetite: These medications work by suppressing appetite, which can lead to a decrease in food intake. While this can be beneficial for weight loss, it also means that individuals may consume fewer nutrients overall, including essential vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients.
Delayed gastric emptying: GLP-1 receptor agonists can slow down the emptying of the stomach, which can lead to early feelings of fullness and reduced meal sizes. As a result, individuals may struggle to consume enough food to meet their nutritional needs.
Nausea and gastrointestinal side effects: One common side effect of GLP-1 receptor agonists is nausea. If individuals experience persistent nausea or gastrointestinal side effects, they may have difficulty eating a balanced diet and obtaining sufficient nutrients.
Dietary restrictions: In some cases, weight loss drugs may be accompanied by dietary restrictions or recommendations. These restrictions can limit the variety of foods consumed, potentially leading to nutrient deficiencies if not carefully managed.
To mitigate the risk of malnutrition while taking these weight loss drugs, it is important to work closely with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or registered dietitian. They can provide guidance on developing a balanced meal plan that meets your nutritional needs while accounting for the potential challenges associated with reduced appetite and gastrointestinal effects. Regular monitoring of nutrient levels and overall health is also essential to identify any deficiencies or imbalances early on and address them appropriately.
Remember, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice, nutritional planning and monitoring when considering or using weight loss medications.
Strong Life Diets is so excited to bring you meal plans geared specifically to GLP-1 users! Most GLP-1 users have a comorbidity, so our Dietitians designed meal plans with these individuals in mind. These meal plans are all included in our monthly membership.
GLP – 1 Semaglutide Series
GLP – 1 High Cholesterol
30% carbs, 40% protein & 30% fat
Creator: Suzanne Fisher, LD RD
The High Cholesterol meal plan is for anyone who has been diagnosed with hypercholesterolemia, has heart disease
or has a risk of developing heart disease. Patients taking statins, may also benefit from following this plan. This
meal plan is high in fiber, rich in anti-inflammatory food such as fruit, vegetables and high Omega-3 foods such as
fatty fish, nuts and seeds. This plan is rich in both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber due to its ability to improve
“bad” serum cholesterol.
GLP – 1 Hypertension
25% carbs, 50% protein & 25% fat
Creator: Suzanne Fisher, LD RD
The Hypertension meal plan was developed for individuals diagnosed with high blood pressure. Key components
are low sodium foods with a daily recommended n=intake of less than 2,300 mg/day.
This plan combines balanced and varied food options such as omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidant rich foods and lean
protein. This plan is devoid of processed foods which can contain large quantities of sodium.
GLP – 1 Diabetes
25% carbs, 35% protein & 25% fat
Creator: Suzanne Fisher, LD RD
The Diabetes meal plan was developed to maintain glycemic control for insulin and non insulin dependent diabetics.
Individuals who are showing signs of hyperglycemia or have a family history of diabetes may benefit from
following this plan. Key aspects are high fiber, lean protein, whole grains, non-starchy vegetables, and low glycemic
index fruit to promote improved blood glucose balance.
GLP – 1 Diabetes and Hypertension
25% carbs, 50% protein & 25% fat
Creator: Suzanne Fisher, LD RD
The Diabetes and Hypertension meal plan was developed to maintain glycemic control and prevent hypertension for
insulin and non insulin dependent diabetics. Individuals who are showing signs of hyperglycemia or have a family
history of diabetes in addition to hypertension may benefit from following this plan. Key aspects are low sodium,
high fiber, lean protein, whole grains, non-starchy vegetables, and low glycemic index fruit to promote improved
blood glucose balance and a healthy blood pressure.
GLP – 1 Diabetes and High Cholesterol
30% carbs, 40% protein & 30% fat
Creator: Suzanne Fisher, LD RD
The High Cholesterol meal plan is for anyone who has been diagnosed with hypercholesterolemia, has heart disease
or has a risk of developing heart disease. Key aspects are high fiber, lean protein, whole grains, non-starchy vegetables, and low glycemic index fruit to promote improved blood glucose balance. Patients taking statins, may also benefit from following this plan. This meal plan is high in fiber, rich in anti-inflammatory food such as fruit, vegetables and high Omega-3 foods such as fatty fish, nuts and seeds. This plan is rich in both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber due to its ability to improve “bad” serum cholesterol.