Abstract:
With the increasing utilization of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) as a therapeutic strategy for obesity management, there is a critical need for coordinated nutrition guidance to enhance the efficacy and safety of these medications.
GLP-1 RAs are effective in reducing appetite, promoting satiety, and facilitating significant weight loss. However, without proper nutritional support, patients may experience adverse outcomes such as lean mass loss, micronutrient deficiencies, and poor diet quality. Hence pharmacotherapy should be embedded within a broader lifestyle-based approach that includes structured, individualized nutrition care and physical activity.
The central nutritional strategy recommended is a focus on nutrient-dense, minimally processed whole foods, including vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and lean protein sources. These foods support overall health, prevent nutritional deficiencies, and help preserve lean body mass during weight loss. Given that GLP-1 RAs can reduce protein intake due to appetite suppression and early satiety, an intentional focus on adequate protein intake (1.2–1.6 g/kg/day) is critical. Protein consumption should be distributed throughout the day to maximize muscle protein synthesis and minimize sarcopenia.
Furthermore, the advisory highlights the importance of monitoring and addressing micronutrient intake, particularly iron, calcium, vitamin D, B12, folate, and magnesium. These nutrients are essential for metabolic health, and deficiencies may be exacerbated by reduced overall food intake during GLP-1 therapy. Special attention is recommended for older adults, menstruating individuals, those on restricted diets, and individuals with limited food variety.
Managing gastrointestinal side effects—such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and early satiety—is another key concern. Strategies include consuming smaller, more frequent meals, eating slowly, and emphasizing bland, easily digestible foods during the adjustment period.
However, patients are cautioned against over-relying on highly processed "safe foods" that may undermine long-term nutritional quality.
Hence a multidisciplinary, patient-centered care model, incorporating the expertise of registered dietitians, obesity medicine specialists, behavioral health professionals, and exercise physiologists. Behavioral strategies, ongoing support, and education are essential for helping patients build sustainable, healthy habits that extend beyond pharmacologic therapy.
In conclusion, GLP-1 therapies offer promising outcomes for obesity treatment, but their benefits can only be fully realized when coupled with comprehensive nutritional and lifestyle interventions. This is evidence-based guidance to help clinicians and patients align dietary practices with pharmacologic therapy, ensuring improved metabolic outcomes, greater long-term weight loss success, and enhanced overall well-being.
