Side Effects, Deficiencies and Muscle Loss: Why you need a Dietitian in your corner when taking weight loss medications.

By Benjamin David, Accredited Practicing Dietitian

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Weight loss medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro have taken the world by storm for their ability to help people with weight loss.

Studies have shown that people lose an average of 15-21% of their body weight when used alongside with diet and exercise.

These (GLP-1 and GIP) medications help you feel fuller for longer by slowing digestion and reducing appetite signals in the brain, subsequently, decreasing your overall caloric intake.

While it may seem like a dream come true, it can actually cause challenges. 

As your appetite decreases and meals become smaller, so does your intake of essential nutrients.

It is more important than ever to pay attention and plan a nutrient-dense diet to not only aid your weight loss but also to support your long term health.

If you're already on these medications, or even just thinking about it, here is why you need a Dietitian in your corner.

Nutrition guidance while eating less.

Whilst these medications suppress your appetite, you're at a higher risk of not getting enough:

• High-quality Protein- to ensure you are losing fat mass and not lean muscle mass.

• Fibre- to support healthy digestion

• Essential Vitamins and Minerals- to prevent fatigue and deficiencies.

A dietitian will work together with you to understand your health goals, current lifestyle and food preferences. Your personalised nutrition plan will guide you to:

• Meet your individual protein needs

• Have sustainable eating patterns to support muscle preservation

• Promote nutrient-dense food choices.

You don’t have to suffer through the side effects. 

If you are experiencing:  

• Nausea 

• Constipation 

• Diarrhoea  

You are not alone. These are some of the common side effects most commonly reported. 

They may occur with each dose increase and can impact your food and fluid intake.

Many of these side effects are manageable through food and lifestyle strategies.

A dietitian can work with you to understand your food preferences and needs to adjust your eating habits to minimaise discomfort.

In it for the long haul.  

Most weight loss journeys are often met with small wins but also small hurdles.  

Dietitians play a crucial role in: 

• Establishing healthy eating patterns that is right for you.  

• Empower you to set achievable goals.  

• Support you through plateaus and help you maintain your weight loss even if you stop the medication down the road.  

Semaglutide and Tirzepatide medications are powerful tools to assist with weight management.

Working with a dietitian ensures you are getting the most from these medications whilst protecting your overall health.

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Benjamin David, APD

Ben is an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) with extensive experience working in community health and clinical settings across metropolitan Melbourne. He specialises in weight management, nutritional management of diabetes and nutrition for older adults. He recognises the unique needs and challenges that each individual faces and works together with them to achieve their goals and improve their quality of life.