Today’s Dietitian
Vol. 28 No. 3 P. 36
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The rising prevalence of obesity and diabetes has led to booming interest in treatments such as glucagonlike peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA or GLP-1) medications. GLP-1s have demonstrable efficacy in weight management and glycemic control, making them a key tool for clinicians addressing these conditions. In 2023, semaglutide was the best-selling drug in the United States with nearly $14 billion in sales.1 There are an estimated 100 million obese adults in America, and an additional 37 million who may also be eligible to use medications like GLP-1s to manage chronic conditions. An estimated 8% of Americans currently use GLP-1 medications, and that number is expected to grow as insurance coverage increases.1
There has been a drastic increase in new research and much buzz amongst patients and clinicians around GLP-1s over the past few years, but they are not new to the medical field. The FDA initially approved subcutaneous (SC) use Exenatide in 2005 and an oral version of semaglutide in 2019.2,3 Initially, GLP-1s were used exclusively for individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) as a means to better control their blood sugar when paired with diet and exercise.2 Now their use is growing exponentially due to their success in helping patients achieve significant weight loss.
Mechanism of Action: How GLP-1s Work
Semaglutide and other GLP-1 receptor agonists help lower blood sugar and support weight loss by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1.4 They do this by activating GLP-1 receptors in the stomach, brain, and pancreas.5 When these receptors are activated, they signal the pancreas to release insulin when blood sugar levels are high, slow down digestion to help control appetite, and reduce the release of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar. Neurologically, GLP-1s may decrease hunger, reduce food cravings, and increase satiety. These combined effects make them an effective treatment for both blood sugar management and weight loss.5
One notable way GLP-1s are believed to be so helpful in weight management is by “turning off the food noise,” which can lead to a decrease in caloric intake.6 The Food Noise Questionnaire (FNQ), a short survey developed to measure food noise in clinical and research settings, illustrates the impact thoughts can have on intake. Sample questions from the FNQ include “I find myself constantly thinking about food throughout the day” and “My thoughts about food have negative effects on me and/or my life.” In the initial assessment group, 400 participants took the survey. Men, retirees, and individuals aged 55+ scored lower on the FNQ, while women and individuals on diets were more likely to score higher. The higher the score, the more the individual or group was likely to experience increased food noise.6
Comparing Popular FDA-Approved GLP-1 Medications — Use, Dose, and Contraindications
Semaglutide is currently best known as three separate brand names: Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus. All three medications are approved by the FDA, but they have different doses and applications tailored to specific health conditions and populations.7
Other FDA approved GLP-1 receptor agonists for glycemic control include Dulaglutide SC (Trulicity), Exenatide injectable solution SC (Byetta), Exenatide injectable suspension SC, Liraglutide SC (Victoza), Liraglutide/insulin degludec (Xultophy), Lixisenatide/insulin glargine (Soliqua), and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro), which is also a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor agonist. These medications work similarly to semaglutide but use a different form of GLP-1 or GIP agonist. For weight-loss purposes, the FDA has approved semaglutide SC (Wegovy), Liraglutide SC, and Tirzepatide.2
Semaglutide (Ozempic, Rybelsus, Wegovy)
Semaglutide is available in multiple formulations, each designed for different treatment goals. Ozempic is a once-weekly injectable form of semaglutide used to improve glycemic control in adults with T2DM and, when used in conjunction with diet and exercise, can reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in individuals with established CVD.7 Typical dosing for Ozempic begins at 0.25 mg once weekly for four weeks to minimize gastrointestinal (GI) side effects, followed by 0.5 mg weekly, with the option to increase to 1 mg or 2 mg weekly depending on clinical response and glycemic control needs.7 Ozempic is often prescribed off-label for weight loss.
Rybelsus is the tablet version of semaglutide, indicated for adults with T2DM to improve blood sugar levels as an adjunct to diet and exercise. It offers an alternative for patients who may prefer an oral mediation over an injection. Oral semaglutide is typically started at 3 mg once daily for 30 days, then increased to 7 mg daily, with an option to further increase to 14 mg daily based on individual treatment goals and tolerability.7
In individuals with T2DM, there seems to be a similar response between oral and subcutaneous semaglutide versions. Researchers noted in a 2024 observational study published in Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism that both types of semaglutide usage resulted in weight loss, averaging 3.5 kg at 18 months and an A1c decrease of 0.9%.8 The study participants were quite homogenous (mostly men, mean age 64, overweight) and researchers theorize a more diverse population is needed to apply these results to broader groups.8 However, it appears older individuals who have chronic vs acute health complications may respond better to an oral semaglutide, while obese individuals on metformin may find more benefit from subcutaneous semaglutide.9 In a study published in the Journal of Endocrinological Investigation, researchers collected data on 292 diabetic patients and found that while both forms successfully lowered blood sugar and weight, the subcutaneous version of semaglutide had a greater positive impact on A1c, weight loss, waist circumference, and BMI in obese individuals.9
Wegovy is another injectable formulation of semaglutide which is FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight management in adults and pediatric patients (aged 12 and up) with obesity or those who are overweight and have at least one weight-related comorbidity (eg, T2DM, hypertension, dyslipidema).7 The dosing schedule begins at 0.25 mg weekly, increasing every four weeks to 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 1.7 mg, with a maintenance dose of 2.4 mg/week by week 17.7 Wegovy has shown significant weight loss outcomes, with some individuals achieving ≥10% weight loss maintained over 12 to 24 months.4,10,11 While Ozempic and Wegovy contain the same active ingredient, only Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight management. Research studies such as the SELECT trial, which used a 2.4 mg weekly dose, do not always specify the brand name, making data attribution to Ozempic or Wegovy sometimes unclear.12
Ozempic and Rybelsus are not currently recommended for pediatric populations. In addition, semaglutide use is not advised during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and women attempting to conceive should discontinue semaglutide medications at least two months prior to conception, as it can impact fertility.7 While there are typically no dose adjustments required for patients with renal or hepatic impairment, careful monitoring is advised for individuals who have had bariatric surgery. It is also not approved for individuals with type 1 diabetes.7
Liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza)
Liraglutide is a once daily injectable GLP-1 RA that can be prescribed for both glycemic control in T2DM and chronic weight management. Saxenda is the form approved for weight management while Victoza is approved for T2DM; the only difference is in the dosing. It is FDA-approved for adults and pediatric patients aged 12 and older with obesity or overweight and at least one weight-related comorbidity.13 Liraglutide lowers blood sugar by enhancing insulin release and reducing appetite, with studies demonstrating a 15% reduction in caloric intake and an average weight loss of 18.5 lbs.10,14,15 While its mechanism of action is similar to semaglutide, liraglutide differs in dose, frequency, and formulation and should not be used interchangeably.
For diabetes management, the standard dose is 1.8 mg injected daily, while for weight loss, the dose is increased to 3 mg daily.10 Titration begins at 0.6 mg/day, increasing weekly by 0.6 mg until the 3 mg maintenance dose is reached, typically over a five-week period.10 Clinical guidelines recommend liraglutide for long-term use when combined with lifestyle modifications. Like other GLP-1s, liraglutide is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.13
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound)
Tirzepatide is a dual agonist that targets both GLP-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors, making it distinct from other single-pathway medications. The brand name Mounjaro is FDA-approved for T2DM treatment and, as of its most recent regulatory updates, is also approved in the United States and Europe for weight management as Zepbound.16,17 By enhancing insulin secretion and reducing appetite, tirzepatide supports both blood glucose control and weight loss. In clinical trials such as SURPASS and SURPASS-2, tirzepatide demonstrated comparable or superior efficacy to semaglutide in improving HbA1c and reducing BMI, with weight reductions of 5.4 to 10.5 kg and up to 2.34% HbA1c reduction at 40 weeks.16,17
Tirzepatide is administered as a weekly injection beginning at 2.5 mg weekly and increasing to 5 mg after four weeks. Further increases of 2.5 mg every four weeks may be made based on clinical goals, with a maximum dose of 15 mg/week.16 It is contraindicated in type 1 diabetes and has not been approved for use in pediatric populations. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and those planning to conceive should avoid this medication, as it may interfere with oral contraceptives. There is also limited safety data in older adults. Like other GLP-1-based treatments, tirzepatide should not be combined with additional GLP-1s due to overlapping mechanisms and risk for compounded side effects.16
Other GLP-1 Contraindications and Considerations for Use
There are several medications that are contraindicated with GLP-1 use. These include furosemide, thiazide diuretics, and ritodrine, as GLP-1 usage can decrease their effectiveness, primarily due to delayed absorption.7 Semaglutide medications may also impact thyroid function by increasing serum levothyroxine.7 All GLP-1 medications are a known risk factor for acute pancreatitis.16
While research is limited, there is concern that GLP-1s may contribute to the onset, maintenance, or worsening of disordered eating behaviors. The appetite-suppressing effects of GLP-1s, along with common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, may promote excessive dietary restriction—a serious concern in eating disorders. Clinicians should screen for eating disorders before initiating treatment and monitor for signs of disordered eating after starting therapy. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to support the use of GLP-1 in treating binge eating disorder, but some studies suggest it may be helpful.18 Ongoing assessment and open discussions about the risks are recommended for this population.19
Clinical Efficacy: Weight Management, Type 2 Diabetes, and Cardiovascular Protection
Weight Management
Weight loss remains a primary reason individuals begin GLP-1 medications, and the STEP clinical trial program has been instrumental in evaluating the efficacy of semaglutide 2.4 mg for chronic weight management across diverse populations, with study participants recruited from a wide range of countries. In STEP 1, 1,961 nondiabetic adults with overweight or obesity achieved an average 14.9% weight loss over 68 weeks when semaglutide was combined with lifestyle changes.20 STEP 2 examined 1210 individuals with T2DM and showed a more modest average weight loss of 9.6%, possibly due to insulin resistance and the influence of other diabetes medications.21 STEP 3 introduced a more intensive lifestyle intervention to participants who were overweight or obese but without T2DM—including a calorie-restricted diet and behavioral support—and resulted in slightly higher weight loss amongst the 611 study participants, averaging around 16%.22 The STEP 4 trial included 811 individuals who were overweight or obese without diabetes and assessed the impact of discontinuing semaglutide after 20 weeks. Those who continued the medication maintained or continued to lose weight, while those who stopped regained much of the weight lost, underscoring the need for long-term therapy.23
Longer-term outcomes were assessed in STEP 5, which extended treatment to 104 weeks and demonstrated sustained weight loss of approximately 15%.24 In East Asian populations, STEP 6 showed similar results, with participants achieving an average 12% to 13% weight loss over 68 weeks.25 STEP 7, a 44-week trial including participants from China, Hong Kong, Brazil, and South Korea, found that those on semaglutide lost an average of 12.1% of their body weight compared with 3.6% with placebo.26 Lastly, STEP 8 compared semaglutide with liraglutide and showed greater efficacy with semaglutide (15.8% vs 6.4% weight loss), as well as better tolerability and more convenient weekly dosing.27
Taken together, the STEP trials show that semaglutide consistently results in clinically meaningful weight loss across various populations and treatment conditions. While outcomes may vary based on factors such as diabetes status, lifestyle intervention intensity, and treatment duration, semaglutide stands out as a highly effective long-term weight management option. It is important to note that all STEP trials were industry funded, which should be considered when interpreting the results.
In addition to the STEP trials, real-world studies and independent reviews further support the effectiveness of a variety of GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight management, with weight loss typically ranging from 5% to 15% depending on dose, duration, and adherence.28,29 A retrospective, noninterventional drug utilization cohort study in the United Kingdom evaluated the use of different varieties of liraglutide for weight management purposes.30 Among 604 individuals using Saxenda (liraglutide 3 g) and 4,853 individuals using Victoza (liraglutide 1.2 mg/1.8 mg), most were able to achieve ≥5% weight loss within 24 weeks.30 Emerging data on tirzepatide has also shown even greater weight reductions (up to 21% over 72 weeks) over other GLP-1s, as well as improved quality of life.31,32 Together, these findings show the support GLP-1s can provide in long-term weight management.
Type 2 Diabetes
GLP-1s have demonstrated strong efficacy in improving glycemic control for adults with T2DM. A comprehensive review of clinical trials from 2021 highlights that once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide (1 mg) consistently lowered HbA₁c by 1.5 to 1.8% over 30 to 56 weeks, outperforming other medications including sitagliptin, dulaglutide, and insulin glargine in the SUSTAIN series.33 Real-world data from 2023 further support these findings, showing an average HbA1c reduction of approximately 0.9% and a fasting blood glucose decrease of 26 mg/dL after six months of once-weekly semaglutide use.34 These results underscore semaglutide’s ability to offer meaningful improvements in glycemic control and metabolic health for patients with T2DM.
A 2021 network meta-analysis published in Diabetes Therapy assessed the effectiveness of different types of GLP-1 medications in adults with poorly controlled T2DM.35 The goal was to determine the most effective therapy to use in addition to insulin to lower blood sugar and bring HbA1c into a healthier range (
All studies that qualified for the meta-analysis reported a positive change in HbA1c at six months. The most effective dosage was the daily oral semaglutide at the higher dose of 14 mg; this dose also provoked the largest percentage of weight loss though the once-weekly injectable dose of semaglutide at 1 mg was similarly effective.35
Cardiovascular Protection
In addition to blood glucose and weight loss benefits, GLP-1s have shown effectiveness in improving cardiovascular outcomes and reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events.36
The SELECT trial showed that semaglutide 2.4 mg weekly significantly reduced major adverse cardiovascular events, heart failure-related hospitalizations, cardiovascular deaths, and all-cause mortality in adults with overweight or obesity and established CVD, including those with and without heart failure. Benefits were seen across heart failure subtypes and patient, with fewer serious adverse events reported in the semaglutide group.37
The SUSTAIN 6 trial, which looked at patients at high risk for CVD, found similar results. In this study, participants using semaglutide had a lower risk for CVD-related events when compared with placebo.38 These results build on prior evidence that GLP-1s not only support blood sugar and weight management but also offer significant cardiovascular protection in high-risk populations.39
A 2021 systematic review published in Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research & Reviews examined six studies involving over 182,000 adults with T2DM to evaluate the cardioprotective effects of GLP-1s (primarily liraglutide and exenatide) taken in conjunction with blood pressure and cholesterol lowering medications.40 The findings showed consistent “improvements in cardiac function, including increased left ventricular ejection fraction”40 and reduced heart chamber volume, along with weight loss and improved myocardial blood flow. There were no significant changes in blood pressure or cholesterol levels.40 These results suggest that the heart benefits of GLP-1s may be due to their effects on weight and cardiac structure rather than traditional cardiovascular risk factors. However, to confirm these findings, more research across a wider range of medications is necessary.
Common Side Effects
While GLP-1s are generally well-tolerated, there are reported side effects that can interfere with treatment. The most common side effects include GI issues such as abdominal discomfort, nausea, and vomiting. Per a 2021 analysis published in Diabetes Obesity Metabolism, nearly 50% of patients on semaglutide report nausea.41 Side effects tend to be dose dependent and may lessen in intensity with ongoing treatment.42,43
An underlying cause for these GI complaints relates to one of the ways in which GLP-1 medications work, which involves delayed gastric emptying. This slowing of the digestive process is a mechanism of action for GLP-1s, helping to regulate blood sugar and support weight loss. However, in some individuals—particularly those with existing GI conditions or diabetes-related autonomic neuropathy—it may worsen or trigger symptoms of gastroparesis. A 2023 review in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism highlighted that GLP-1s can delay gastric emptying significantly, especially at higher doses or early in treatment.44 Another study found that just over 5% of patients experience gastroparesis and it was more likely when using liraglutide or dulaglutide when compared with semaglutide.45
A 2024 cross-sectional analysis in Pharmaceuticals examined the GI side effects of semaglutide, dulaglutide, liraglutide, and exenatide in over 10,000 adults with T2DM or obesity from the National Institutes of Health All of Us cohort.45 They found that abdominal pain was the most frequently reported GI issue (57.6%), followed by constipation, diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, GI bleeding, gastroparesis, and pancreatitis. Dulaglutide and liraglutide were linked with higher rates of abdominal pain, nausea/vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea compared with semaglutide and exenatide. Liraglutide and exenatide showed slightly higher rates of pancreatitis, though differences were not statistically significant. Overall, exenatide appeared to have the most favorable GI profile, with the exception of gastroparesis.45 These findings may help guide personalized GLP-1 selection based on GI risk.
Additionally, individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of experiencing adverse events like pancreatitis, bowel obstruction, diabetic retinopathy, and gallbladder, liver, and bile duct issues, particularly if these conditions are preexisting.38,46 Hypoglycemia is also a risk, particularly when titrating up, and especially if the individual is also taking another medication that may lower blood sugar like insulin, metformin, or sulfonylureas; this is why these medications are contraindicated in individuals with type 1 diabetes.7
Other reported adverse events include lack of appetite, dyspepsia, and altered taste; these are more likely to be seen in patients who are at a higher dose of a GLP-1 medication or who are transitioning between doses.7 There are many other potential reactions including fatigue, headaches, rashes, alopecia, anxiety, dizziness, and rejection at the injection site.7 In pediatric patients, cholelithiasis, cholecystitis, hypotension, rash, and urticaria were more likely to be seen.7
A loss of muscle mass is another concern for individuals utilizing GLP-1 medications. According to a review in Diabetes Obesity Metabolism, lean muscle mass loss can range from 15% to 60% depending on the individual and intervention.47 Sarcopenia is most likely to occur in older individuals with multiple comorbidities and a larger percentage of lost body weight.47 MNT should be tailored in these cases, helping to ensure appropriate protein and caloric intake.
Weight Regain After GLP-1 Discontinuation
While GLP-1 receptor agonists are widely studied for their effectiveness in promoting weight loss, less is known about long-term weight maintenance after discontinuing the medication. A few studies have looked at this, but the data is limited.
A 2025 systematic review and meta-analysis published in Obesity Reviews evaluated changes in body weight, BMI, and waist circumference following GLP-1 RA discontinuation. The analysis included eight randomized controlled trials with 2,372 participants (all with BMI ≥ 27 kg/m²) and found that weight regain was proportional to the amount initially lost.48 On average, participants who had taken liraglutide regained 2.2 kg, while those who had taken semaglutide or tirzepatide regained 9.69 kg after stopping the medication.48 Similarly, a 2025 review in Biomolecules showed that patients treated with GLP-1 or dual GLP-1/GIP agonists experience substantial weight loss (ranging from about 6% to over 20%) but also significant weight regain upon drug discontinuation. The study authors reported weight regain percentages ranging from 1.9% to 14% depending on the agent used.49
These findings, in addition to the STEP 4 trial previously discussed, highlight the potential for significant weight regain once treatment is discontinued and emphasize the importance of discussing long-term treatment planning with patients. More studies are needed to better understand how and why weight regain occurs and ways to support long-term success.
Long-Term Success: The Role of the RD in Individualized Nutrition Support
While GLPs can support meaningful weight loss and glycemic control, sustainable success requires more than medication alone. Studies suggest that patients benefit most when treatment is paired with practical, personalized nutrition support that adapts over time. RDs play a central role in this process, providing MNT that evolves based on the patient’s clinical response, dietary intake, muscle mass, and tolerance to medication.50,51
Before initiating GLP-1 therapy, clinicians should assess baseline diet, medical conditions, disordered eating patterns, and social determinants of health to identify barriers and tailor care.19 Ongoing monitoring should include changes in weight, muscle strength, and nutrient intake, using flexible care delivery models such as telehealth, group visits, or Food is Medicine programs to improve access and equity to nutrient dense foods.19
MNT Recommendations
To support long-term success, lifestyle interventions must be structured and ongoing. Resistance training helps preserve lean mass, while personalized dietary plans ensure nutritional adequacy despite appetite suppression. General MNT recommendations for adults taking antiobesity medications include an intake of 1,200 to 1,800 calories/day depending on sex and activity level; 45% to 65% carbohydrates, 20% to 35% fat, and up to 1.5 g protein/kg body weight to maintain lean tissue; 21 to 38 g of fiber; and 2 to 3 liters of fluid daily. Supplementation with a multivitamin, calcium, and vitamin D may also be necessary.50,51 While these are general guidelines, more targeted research is needed to refine them for GLP-1 users specifically.
Improving Adherence and Tolerance
Dietitians can also help patients with adherence and medication tolerance to achieve better outcomes. A 2024 study in the Journal of Managed Care + Specialty Pharmacy examined the effectiveness of GLP-1 therapy in the setting of weight management and found that only one-third of individuals took their medications as prescribed. Individuals who were most likely to use their medications consistently and correctly were semaglutide (Ozempic) users and those who were least compliant were liraglutide (Saxenda) users, at 47.1% and 19.2% respectively.52 The authors hypothesized that frequency of injection could have impacted these results. RDs can reinforce correct usage and help mitigate side effects to promote long-term adherence.
To improve tolerance of GLP-1 medications and reduce common side effects such as nausea, clinicians may recommend clients measure food portions, limit high-fat foods, and stop eating when they feel satisfied.51,53 A referral to a physician for severe GI-related side effects, especially gastroparesis, may be needed if adverse effects continue. Health care providers may consider medications such as metoclopramide or erythromycin, which can help improve gastric motility. It’s may also be necessary to adjust the dose or timing of the GLP-1, use smaller, more frequent meals, or temporarily pause treatment under supervision.44
Monitoring and Follow-Up
Ongoing monitoring during medication titration is also advised. Ideally, clients should be seen weekly during this phase, but even monthly follow-up can be effective. A review published in Trends in Cardiovascular Medicine found that monthly lifestyle counseling visits improved adherence and weight loss outcomes at 68 weeks.10 Interestingly, individuals who followed a more intensive, nonpharmacologic plan (including meal replacements and behavioral therapy) achieved similar weight loss results at 68 weeks compared with those using injectables.10 These findings further highlight the value of consistent, structured nutrition counseling in promoting sustainable weight management.
Through tailored MNT and working closely with the patient’s health care team, dietitians can help clients navigate the unique nutritional challenges that arise with GLP-1 medication use, ultimately supporting both clinical outcomes and quality of life.
Access and Affordability
Cost and insurance coverage are among the most commonly cited barriers to GLP-1 usage. Many health plans still have limited or no coverage for obesity treatment, despite the growing research supporting the health benefits of weight loss and improved glycemic control.
Shortages of these medications have been a concern as well. Off label usage of GLP-1 medications can happen when a shortage of the prescribed drug occurs; this has been seen in recent years. In these cases, clinicians may prescribe Ozempic (approved for T2DM) in place of Wegovy (approved for weight management), essentially using an FDA-approved drug for a different purpose.
This is different from a compounded formula, which is not FDA approved and where little research currently exists surrounding safety and efficacy.53 Patients using compounded versions may not receive a standardized dose, and safety and efficacy data for these products is currently lacking. Helping patients ensure that their medications are correctly prescribed, prepared, and available from their insurance provider is essential for long-term success.
Aiding patients in navigating the complexities of insurance, pharmacy availability, and safe sourcing of their medications is critical. Clinicians and pharmacists can support clients in understanding their options, appealing denials, and identifying patient assistance programs when available.
Putting It Into Practice
Studies suggest that GLP-1s can be a powerful tool for improving patient outcomes related to weight management, T2DM, and CVD. As research continues to evolve, it’s essential for clinicians to stay informed on how to use these medications safely, effectively, and responsibly—including how to differentiate between agents, manage side effects, and individualize treatment plans. More data is certainly needed as sample sizes of clinical trials tend to be on the smaller side and many study participants exhibit similar characteristics, which may make broader applications of data challenging. Longterm clinical follow up is also needed to determine a gold standard of care in regard to dose titration and maintenance.
As GLP-1 usage grows, interdisciplinary care becomes even more important, and RDs play a critical role. Evidence shows that combining GLP-1 therapy with nutrition counseling leads to improved adherence and better outcomes. RDs can help patients optimize their nutrition, navigate side effects like nausea or early satiety, and ensure dietary quality is not sacrificed during weight loss. RDs also support long-term behavior change and provide education that helps patients sustain progress beyond the medication itself. Knowing how to use GLP-1s in chronic disease and weight management effectively is key—but pairing that with customized nutrition support ensures truly comprehensive care that may be key in achieving long-term success.
— Alexandria Hardy, RDN, LDN, is a writer and the owner of Pennsylvania Nutrition Services.
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