Thinking About Taking GLP-1 Medications Like Ozempic, Mounjaro, or Wegovy? A Nutritionist’s Perspective
GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Wegovy have gained enormous popularity for their ability to support weight loss and blood sugar control. Clinical studies and real-world results show that they can deliver quick, noticeable changes, making them a tempting option for those who have struggled to manage their weight through traditional methods.
But before you start on these medications, it’s important to ask:
“Will this address the root causes of my weight gain?”
“What happens when I stop taking it?”
“Are there potential side effects I should consider?”
As clinical nutritionists, we don’t dismiss the potential benefits of GLP-1 medications. For some clients, these drugs can be a game-changer, particularly when paired with sustainable lifestyle changes. However, it’s equally important to understand their limitations, potential risks, and how they fit into the bigger picture of long-term health.
What Are GLP-1 Medications and How Do They Work?
GLP-1 medications belong to a class of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists. They mimic the effects of the naturally occurring GLP-1 hormone, which plays several roles in appetite regulation, digestion, and blood sugar control.
Key Effects of GLP-1 Medications:
Suppress Appetite: These medications slow stomach emptying and signal to the brain that you’re full, making it easier to reduce food intake.
Stabilise Blood Sugar: They enhance insulin secretion while reducing the release of glucagon, helping control blood sugar spikes.
Promote Weight Loss: By curbing hunger and calorie intake, many users experience significant weight loss over time.
💡 Clinical Evidence: Studies on semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic) have shown that participants lose 10–15% of their body weight after one year of use (1).
The Appeal: Rapid, Noticeable Results
For individuals who have struggled with ineffective diets or plateaued weight loss, GLP-1 medications offer quick, tangible results. Many users report a significant drop in weight and better blood sugar management within the first few months.
However, it’s important to approach this with realistic expectations. While these medications may seem like a “magic bullet,” the reality is more complex. Studies show that weight regain after discontinuing GLP-1 medications is common, particularly if lifestyle factors are not addressed alongside medication.
Key Questions to Consider
Before starting GLP-1 medications, it’s worth asking yourself:
Will this medication address the underlying factors driving my weight issues, such as hormonal imbalances or lifestyle patterns?
Am I committed to the long-term costs and potential side effects?
What’s my plan for sustaining my results once I stop taking the medication?
The Cost of GLP-1 Medications: Is It Worth It?
GLP-1 medications are not inexpensive. In Australia, the price of Ozempic or Wegovy can range from $130 to $200+ per month, depending on dosage and healthcare coverage. Over a year, this can add up to thousands of dollars.
💡 Consider This Alternative: For the same investment, you could work with a clinical nutritionist to build a sustainable, long-term health plan that not only addresses weight loss but also improves your energy, gut health, and overall quality of life.
What Happens When You Stop Taking GLP-1 Medications?
While GLP-1 medications can produce rapid results during use, studies show that many individuals regain weight after discontinuing them, particularly if no underlying lifestyle or dietary changes were made.
Evidence on Weight Regain:
Research published in 2022 demonstrated that individuals who discontinued semaglutide regained approximately 66% of the weight they had lost within one year (2). This highlights the importance of pairing GLP-1 medications with sustainable strategies, like dietary changes and exercise, to ensure long-term success.
Potential Side Effects: What You Need to Know
Like any medication, GLP-1 drugs come with potential side effects that vary from person to person. While many users tolerate them well, others experience challenges that can impact their quality of life.
Common Side Effects:
Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea are frequently reported, particularly when starting the medication.
Constipation is another common issue, occurring in about 25% of users, which can worsen if your diet isn’t balanced with adequate fibre and hydration (3).
Fatigue and Low Energy:
Appetite suppression can sometimes lead to insufficient calorie intake, leaving you feeling drained.Nutritional Deficiencies:
If your food intake decreases significantly, you may develop deficiencies in key nutrients like:Protein, leading to muscle loss and hair thinning.
Iron and B12, contributing to fatigue and weakened immunity.
Essential fatty acids, impacting skin and brain health.
How Clinical Nutrition Complements or Alternatives GLP-1 Medications
Whether you’re considering GLP-1 medications or looking for an alternative, clinical nutrition provides the missing piece by focusing on long-term, sustainable solutions.
1. We Address the Root Causes of Weight Gain
Weight gain is rarely just about “calories in versus calories out.” At XLR8 Your Health, we assess the underlying factors driving your weight challenges, such as:
Insulin resistance or hormonal imbalances.
Chronic inflammation or stress.
Gut health issues like dysbiosis or food sensitivities.
2. We Focus on Long-Term Sustainability
Unlike medications, clinical nutrition equips you with the skills and knowledge to maintain your results for life. Our personalised plans help you:
Develop healthy eating patterns that don’t feel restrictive.
Build strength and energy through balanced nutrition and exercise.
3. We Help Manage Side Effects and Nutritional Gaps
If you choose to start GLP-1 medications, we ensure that your body stays supported by:
Preventing Nutritional Deficiencies: Incorporating high-protein, nutrient-dense foods to prevent muscle loss and hair thinning.
Easing Digestive Side Effects: Recommending foods and supplements to prevent constipation, nausea, or discomfort.
4. We Support You in Weaning Off Medications
For clients who wish to stop using GLP-1 medications, we work alongside their GP to create a plan for maintaining results without dependency on the drug. This includes stabilising blood sugar, supporting healthy appetite regulation, and preventing weight regain through practical, sustainable strategies.
Success Story: Rachel’s Journey with Sustainable Weight Loss
Rachel, a 42-year-old business owner, started Ozempic after struggling with her weight for years. While she saw results initially, she developed side effects including constipation, fatigue, and low appetite, which left her feeling unwell.
During her consultation with us, we:
Created a meal plan that prioritised fibre, hydration, and nutrients to address her constipation and low energy.
Identified underlying hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance contributing to her weight struggles.
Helped her safely reduce her use of Ozempic after three months, transitioning to a sustainable lifestyle plan.
Three months later, Rachel:
Was off Ozempic and maintaining her results naturally.
Had more energy and no digestive discomfort.
Felt empowered by her new habits and understanding of her health.
Take the Next Step Toward Informed, Sustainable Health
Whether you’re considering GLP-1 medications or exploring other ways to manage your weight and health, you have options. At XLR8 Your Health, we help you make informed decisions, optimise your results, and create a sustainable plan that works for YOUR body.
💡 Ready to explore your options?
👉 Book a free 15-minute call with us today to see how we can help: xlr8yourhealth.com/contact.
References
Wilding, J. P. H., et al. (2021). Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity. New England Journal of Medicine.
Rubino, D., et al. (2022). Effect of continued versus withdrawn semaglutide treatment on weight loss maintenance in people with obesity: The STEP 4 trial. JAMA.
Htike, Z.Z., et al. (2017). Efficacy and safety of GLP-1 receptor agonists. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism.
