Understanding GLP-1 Medications: A Guide to Personalized Nutrition

Quick Summary

GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda, and Trulicity are sometimes prescribed to help manage type 2 diabetes and aid in weight management. While they can be effective, they are not a complete solution. Side effects, reduced nutrient intake, and weight regain are common challenges once treatment ends. Working with a dietitian ensures you manage these risks safely, protect your health, and build habits that last.

Introduction

GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of medications prescribed to support the management of type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, to aid in weight management. They work by mimicking a natural hormone that helps regulate blood sugar and appetite.

While some people see positive results, GLP-1 medications are not a stand-alone solution. Without the right nutrition and lifestyle support, many patients experience side effects, nutritional deficiencies, or weight regain once treatment stops.

That’s where a dietitian’s expertise becomes essential - helping you make the most of medical treatment while protecting long-term health.

What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 medications are a class of drugs that imitate the natural GLP-1 hormone produced in the intestines. They work by:

• Increasing insulin secretion

• Decreasing glucagon secretion

• Slowing gastric emptying

  
  

Medication alone doesn’t fix eating behaviours, food choices, or long-term changes. That’s where nutrition support comes in.

Examples of GLP-1 medications include:

• Liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda): Often linked to a 5–10% body weight reduction.

• Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy): Shown to produce an average 15% body weight reduction.

• Dulaglutide (Trulicity): Demonstrated a 1.3% HbA1c reduction, improving blood sugar control.

  
  

It’s important to note: GLP-1s are only prescribed when clinically appropriate by a healthcare professional. They are not a “quick fix” — long-term success still depends on nutrition, lifestyle, and behaviour change.

The Role of a Dietitian During GLP-1 Treatment

GLP-1 medications can make it easier to eat less — but without proper support, they often bring challenges such as side effects, nutritional gaps, and weight regain. Here’s how a dietitian can help:

Managing Side Effects

GLP-1 medications often cause nausea, bloating, or constipation, especially at the start. A dietitian can guide you with food choices to reduce discomfort and make treatment more tolerable.

Preventing Nutritional Deficiencies

With reduced appetite, many people unintentionally fall short on protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. A dietitian helps you prioritise nutrient-dense foods so your body stays nourished, even with smaller portions.

Preserving Muscle Mass

Not all weight loss is good weight loss. Without the right balance of nutrition, you risk losing lean muscle, which is key for metabolism, strength, and blood sugar control. As a dietitian, I guide clients to protect muscle mass with smart nutrition and lifestyle tweaks.

(Exact *protein targets and strategies are personalised — one size does not fit all.

Supporting Long-Term Change

GLP-1 medications are temporary, but your health goals are lifelong. A dietitian helps you:

• Build sustainable eating habits

• Get to the root cause of your weight gain

• Develop skills and confidence so you maintain results even after treatment ends

  
  

Comprehensive Assessment

Your journey begins with an in-depth assessment. This includes not only your health history and dietary intake but also your relationship with food. Many people don’t realise that GLP-1 medications can temporarily mask issues such as binge eating or emotional eating. Once the medication is reduced or stopped, those behaviours often resurface. Identifying this early allows us to create a strategy that lasts.

(Exactly how we do this depends on each person — that’s where personalised sessions matter most.)

Behavioural & Emotional Support

Weight loss isn’t just about food — it’s about habits, mindset, and coping strategies. A dietitian provides practical tools such as mindful eating and stress-management approaches, helping you stay on track long-term.

Benefits of Working With a Dietitian on GLP-1 Medications

Working alongside a dietitian during GLP-1 therapy helps you:

• Reduce side effects with practical dietary strategies.

• Lower the risk of deficiencies by improving food quality.

• Protect muscle mass and metabolism.

• Achieve sustainable weight management — not just while on medication.

• Improve blood sugar control through personalised nutrition.

• Stay accountable and motivated with ongoing support.

  
  

What to Expect When Working With a Dietitian

If you’re starting GLP-1 therapy, here’s how dietitian support usually looks:

1. Initial Assessment – We review your medical history, eating patterns, and lifestyle in depth.

2. Personalised Goals – Achievable and realistic goals tailored to you.

3. Tailored Nutrition Guidance – Flexible, practical approaches that fit your life (not a generic “diet plan”).

4. Ongoing Support – Regular sessions to track progress and make adjustments.

5. Long-Term Strategy – So you feel confident maintaining results when medication ends.

   
   

(The details of this process vary by client — this is why personalised support is so valuable.)

FAQs

Will I regain weight when I stop GLP-1 medication?

There is a real risk of weight regain without the right nutrition and lifestyle strategies. Working with a dietitian reduces this risk.

Do GLP-1 medications affect muscle mass?

Yes, they can if nutrition isn’t managed. A dietitian ensures you’re protecting lean muscle while losing fat.

Why can’t I just use online diet tips?

Generic tips don’t take into account your medical history, medication, and relationship with food. A dietitian gives you tailored guidance for lasting success.

Conclusion & Next Steps

GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda, and Trulicity are powerful tools for type 2 diabetes and weight management. But without addressing nutrition, eating behaviours, and long-term habits, their benefits are often short-lived.

Working with a dietitian ensures you:

• Maximise results during treatment.

• Protect your health (muscle, nutrients, blood sugar).

• Build strategies that last beyond the medication.

  
  

If you’re starting GLP-1 treatment (Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda, or Trulicity), *book a consultation today for personalised nutrition support that maximises your results. Sustainable weight loss and improved nutritional knowledge can lead to meaningful improvements in health and quality of life with the support of a dietitian

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. It does not promote or recommend GLP-1 medications. These drugs should only be prescribed and managed by a qualified healthcare professional. If you are considering or currently taking GLP-1 medication, seek personalised advice from your GP, specialist, or a registered dietitian.