In this episode, Prof Clare Collins discusses the latest medications for obesity, their side effects, and the importance of nutritional support, with Ilyse Jones. She explains how GLP-1 medications like semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tizepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) work, their health benefits beyond weight loss, and the importance of avoiding nutrient deficiencies, including protein, vitamins and mineral. They discuss the critical role of dietitians in managing side effects and helping prevent development of micronutrient deficiencies so that people using these medications can get the full improvement in nutrition related health and wellbeing.
Key Takeaways
- GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tizepatide target appetite hormones and can be prescribed for type 2 diabetes and obesity
- These medications have evolved from daily injections to weekly injections, improving acceptability
- Side effects such as nausea, reflux, and micronutrient deficiencies need careful management using nutrition support
- Obesity is now recognized as a chronic medical condition requiring long-term medical treatment, like high blood pressure and diabetes do
- Support from dietitians and other health professionals is essential for optimizing health outcomes when using these medications
We have created a list of nutrient deficiencies that people taking GLP-1s are at greater risk of, the foods you can find them in, and some No Money No Time recipe inspo to help boost nutrient intakes. Find it here