Work with a Registered Dietitian to Maximize Your GLP-1 Results

Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists and combination medications (GLP-1s) can be an effective tool in diabetes and weight management. However, they come with challenges such as gastrointestinal side effects and nutritional deficiencies from reduced calorie intake leading to muscle and bone loss. 

That’s why working with a registered dietitian (RD), the only medically-certified nutrition expert, is so important! Nutrition and lifestyle strategies are key to reaping all the benefits that GLP-1s offer, while decreasing side effects.  

Common Side Effects and Strategies to Manage Them 

GLP-1s slow down how your body digests food (i.e., they make you feel full faster) which can lead to bloating, fullness and nausea. They also work to activate certain regions in your brain that regulate your appetite, leading to nausea and in some cases constipation. 

If you’ve ever started a GLP-1 or increased your dose, you know that these side effects are common, but in most cases not severe. Regardless, even having side effects for a short period of time can be disruptive to your day-to-day life. 

Nausea

Nausea, the most frequent side effect, typically arises in the morning or after extended periods without food. 

Try these tips if you experience nausea: 

• Eat small meals more frequently 
• Avoid fatty and high fiber foods 
• Drink beverages in between meals, not with meals  
• Sip on ginger or peppermint tea

Constipation & Diarrhea 

Constipation and diarrhea are also common when you first begin or increase your dose of GLP-1. 

Try these tips if you experience constipation: 

• Increase your water intake 
• Slowly add fiber rich foods (like fruits and veggies) to your meals 
• Limit foods high in protein and fat 

Try these tips if you experience diarrhea: 

• Avoid large meals 
• Avoid high fat foods 
• Consider fiber supplementation (under the guidance of a medical professional)

Remember, in most cases these side effects will ease up or completely go away fairly quickly. If after trying these tips and giving your body some time to adjust you still experience these symptoms (or they are getting worse), talk to your healthcare provider. 

Long Term Considerations 

GLP-1s lead to decreased calorie (energy) intake. Naturally, that also means decreased intake of important vitamins and minerals, which can lead to muscle and bone loss.  

Vitamins and Minerals 

It’s important to set yourself up for long-term success by prioritizing nutrient rich foods.

Try these tips to increase your intake of vitamins and minerals: 

• Aim for 1,200+ calories a day for females and 1,800+ calories a day for males
• Focus on whole foods like fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean proteins, nuts and seeds
• Limit ultra-processed foods like pre-packaged snacks
• Limit alcohol intake to no more than one drink per day   

Protein and Physical Activity  

Rapid weight reduction not only causes loss of fat mass, but also loss of lean mass (i.e., muscle and bone).

Try these tips to decrease your risk of lean body mass loss: 

• Prioritize lean protein intake (like chicken, pork, eggs, lentils and beans)
• Try resistance/weight training 

How a Registered Dietitian Can Help

Working with a RD can be very helpful when taking a GLP-1. 

Advantages include:

• Receiving personalized nutrition guidance so you can meet your unique nutrition needs
• Learning how to manage side effects through meal timing and food pairings
• Having ongoing support and accountability to reach your goals for sustained results
• Getting help including your favorite and cultural foods in your food routines
• Receiving tips for eating away from home without guilt
• Obtaining encouragement and motivation when challenges come up 

The Benefits of GLP-1 Medications for People with Diabetes

There are several advantages of GLP-1 medications for people who live with diabetes. They include improved  blood sugar management, increased insulin sensitivity, weight loss and some even come with heart health benefits.

Conclusion

GLP-1 medications are powerful tools in diabetes and weight management. However, proper nutrition is the ultimate recipe for healthy long term success. Working with a RD offers many benefits so you can get the most out of your medication and enjoy lasting results. 

This content was made possible by Fay Nutrition, an active partner of Beyond Type 1. Beyond Type 1 maintains editorial control over its content.