GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, are no longer niche but are now mainstream with many people deciding to use them in order to lose weight. These new consumers are not looking at herbal supplements for weight loss, traditional fat burners or appetite suppressants, but for ways to support them through their weight loss journey whilst on GLP-1. But first, let's look at how GLP-1 medications work and why have exploded into the mainstream.

How GLP-1 medications work?

The introduction of GLP-1 agonists has changed our perception of weight loss. GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1 which is a hormone naturally produced by the cells in your intestine when you eat. As you eat, blood glucose levels rise and the hormone GLP-1 tells your pancreas to produce more insulin which helps cells to produce energy or store glucose. Insulin also slows down stomach emptying which sends signals to the brain to feel less hungry.

GLP-1 is produced in very small amounts and it breaks down within minutes, which is why weight loss has not been an easy task for many people until now. Scientists managed to create GLP-1 which does not last for minutes but for days, delivering powerful appetite suppression.

So why is nutritional support important with GLP-1 medications?

When you restrict calories, the body breaks down muscle tissue for energy alongside fat, so muscle preservation is important to prevent health concerns in the future. Adequate protein is crucial for maintaining muscle mass during weight loss. The benefits of incorporating a high protein diet are important because aside from maintaining muscle mass, a high protein diet has a lower impact on blood sugar levels than carbohydrates which then helps achieve stable blood sugar levels, working in synergy with GLP-1 medications.

I would recommend taking Organic Whey Protein Powder alongside incorporating lean sources of protein in the diet. Experts normally recommend 1.2 to 1.5 grams of protein per kilo of body weight when taking GLP-1 medications to preserve lean mass. You can add five grams of Creatine Powder to the protein powder if you wish since creatine preserves lean body mass and helps exercise recovery.

When your meal sizes are smaller, there are lesser amounts of vitamins and other nutrients available to the body. Numerous studies indicate lower absorption of B-vitamins, as well as other nutrients such as low iron levels.^1,2 This means that your body will be functioning at below par. Common side effects of low nutrients include low energy, hair thinning or loss, muscle weakness, low immunity, and brain fog.

It is therefore essential to take a quality food derived multivitamin supplement such as DoSe Daily Multivitamins to deeply nourish the body with vitamins, minerals, digestive enzymes, probiotics and a host of phytonutrients to help prevent deficiencies, support the immune system, together with the hundreds of functions carried out by our bodies.

Although GLP-1 medications do not affect levels of omega-3 essential fats directly, the restricted diet and reduction in intake of these important fats can result in low levels. If you do not eat a minimum of two portions of oily fish per week then I suggest incorporating a quality omega-3 fish oil such as Life and Soul Omega-3 Fish Oil Daily capsules which provide these very important essential fats from clean sources of small fish such as sardines and mackerel. If you are vegetarian or vegan, take Echiomega capsules which are better than flaxseed or hempseed oil.

Some people find stomach pain and issues surrounding gut health when on GLP-1 medications such as lower abdominal pain and bloating. I would recommend taking a high strength probiotic supplement that delivers these beneficial bacteria to the gut such as DoSe Mega Probio capsules.

Joint support is an area that is important since weight management works best with exercise. Unfortunately, many people who wish to maintain healthy weight cannot undertake regular gentle exercise to support their weight loss goals. For these people, the introduction of Superior Joints capsules would be beneficial as it works to reduce inflammation, joint pain, enhancing joint lubrication. Any movement drives metabolic health.

What should you take post GLP-1?

Akkermansia muciniphila is a bacteria discovered in 2004 which has been the subject of intense research. It is closely linked to improved metabolic health, supporting healthy weight, reduced fat deposition and insulin sensitivity. It also helps in the breakdown of sugar and fats. Unfortunately, studies show declining levels of these bacteria with age and a poor diet.^3,4 A diet low in soluble fibre and polyphenols, but high in processed foods, added sugar and vegetable oils containing linoleic acid lowers levels of this bacteria.

One of the studies on A. muciniphila found that they help to enhance calorie burning and also induces GLP-1 secretion.⁵ There are numerous other benefits associated with sufficient levels of Akkermansia and gut health.

Viridian Organic PrebioFibre is a prebiotic supplement containing a blend of fibres from Baobab and Acacia resin. This prebiotic fibre powder contains two sustainably sourced ingredients which have been shown to raise levels of Akkermansia. Viridian prebiotic supplement may help to maintain healthy weight post GLP-1.

Conclusion

Two things are very clear; GLP-1 medications work and can change your weight, but are not without side effects. However, in combination with a holistic approach to your overall health, they can help you to achieve your weight loss goal. These medications are not a permanent solution. Most people will eventually stop taking them for a variety of reasons and so understanding your relationship with food, having sufficient sleep and targeted nutrition therapy will all help you to maintain healthy weight post GLP-1.

References:

1. Six supplements to consider while on a GLP-1. Weight watchers, Sarah Z Wexler. Medically reviewed by Kelli Richardson PhD, RDN
2. Dietary supplement considerations during glucagon-like Peptide-1 receptor agonist treatment. Brittany VB Johnson 1,⁎, Mary Milstead 1, Rachel Kreider 1, Rachel Jones 1
3. NutraIngredients USA, Akkermansia muciniphila: Promising new human clinical trials for probiotics, March 4, 2024
4. Microorganisms. 2024 Aug 9;12(8):1627
5. Nature Microbiology Volume 6, Pages 563–573 (2021)