Recent findings reveal that GLP-1 medications, commonly prescribed for weight management, may have significant long-term consequences if not supported by proper nutrition and lifestyle changes. Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, a cardiologist and director of the Food is Medicine Institute at Tufts University, spearheaded this landmark report. This report provides guidance to clinicians and patients on how to maximize benefits and minimize harms while using these state-of-the-art medications.
The Wild Health report highlights the importance of combining proper nutrition and exercise with GLP-1 treatments to get the best results. GLP-1 medications such as Wegovy and Zepbound only provide a temporary solution with muscle loss and subsequent weight regain. To sidestep these problems and keep tax dollars in check, we must take a broader view of health. This new advisory comes after concerns were issued by four large medical groups that called attention to the risks of these drugs.
Dr. Mozaffarian reminds us that the purpose for which the FDA approved these GLP-1 drugs is as an adjunct to lifestyle therapy. Unfortunately, the vast majority of prescriptions miss the point.
“In fact, they are prescribed the other way around with lifestyle therapy being the adjunct if being thought about at all. Doctors are not following either society guidelines or FDA guidelines if they are prescribing GLP-1s without lifestyle therapy.” – Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian
To help meet patients’ increased nutritional needs while on GLP-1s, the report recommends a number of dietary changes. It also recommends that individuals take supplements including vitamin D, calcium, and a multivitamin as needed to meet nutrient requirements. In addition, it recommends boosting protein intake 50-100% from foods such as fish, eggs, nuts, and seeds.
Registered dietitian nutritionist Emily A. Callahan underscores the importance of nutritional advice for those taking GLP-1s. She is the director of policy strategy for the Food is Medicine Institute.
“GLP-1s have the best chance of helping people achieve and sustain lasting weight reduction when they are paired with strong nutrition guidance and lifestyle support.” – Emily A. Callahan
Along with highlighting the need for healthier food environments, the report provides support for consistent, daily physical activity. It suggests that you complete a full body strength training workout at least three days a week. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate cardiovascular exercise per week on top of that. Such activities are crucial for maintaining muscle mass and overall health, particularly for older adults who may experience muscle loss during weight reduction.
That’s the key concern of Dr. Brendan Huang, chief resident physician in adult neurology at Northwell Health. He explains that decreased consumption due to GLP-1 medications can lead to tolerance of smaller meals leading to desperation of smaller food and nutrients.
The implications of the report are clear: for individuals on GLP-1 medications to achieve optimal results, a comprehensive approach that includes dietary changes and physical exercise is essential. This is where registered dietitians come in — playing a vital role in offering customizable medical nutrition therapy to help support, not replace, GLP-1 therapy.
