Facebook

GLP-1 Medications Explained

What Are GLP-1 Drugs?

GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a natural hormone that helps control blood sugar, appetite, and digestion.

You read it correctly: A natural hormone that we all have in our body already!

Prescription GLP-1 medications copy that hormone to:

Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, higher doses are now used for weight management. Because they target appetite and fullness, these drugs can help people eat less and lose significant weight — but they also change how the body handles food, nutrients, and blood sugar.

How Many People Are Taking GLP-1s?

Use has skyrocketed in the U.S.:

💉 The Brand Names You’ll Recognize

Brand Name

Generic Name

Use

How It’s Taken

Ozempic®

semaglutide

Type 2 diabetes

Weekly injection

Wegovy®

semaglutide

Chronic weight management

Weekly injection

Rybelsus®

semaglutide

Type 2 diabetes

Daily pill

Mounjaro®

tirzepatide (GLP-1 + GIP)

Type 2 diabetes, weight loss

Weekly injection

Trulicity®

dulaglutide

Type 2 diabetes

Weekly injection

Victoza® / Saxenda®

liraglutide

Diabetes / weight management

Daily injection

⚠️ Risks of GLP-1 Medications (and How to Reduce Them)

Potential Risk

Why It Happens

Prevention Tips

Nausea, vomiting, constipation

Slow digestion & dose increase

Small bland meals, hydration, dose  titration

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

Combined with insulin or sulfonylureas

Adjust meds under supervision, eat regularly

Gallstones

Rapid weight loss

Moderate, steady weight loss; report pain early

Nutrient deficiencies

Low appetite & smaller portions

Nutrient-dense meals, multivitamin if advised

Pancreatitis (rare)

Inflammation risk in some users

Report severe abdominal pain immediately

Unapproved online products

Counterfeit or unsafe

Only use prescriptions from licensed pharmacies

🧠 Why GLP-1 Users Need a Registered Dietitian

Get your FREE: Living Well on a GLP-1 Your Nutrition & Wellness Checklist.

GLP-1 medications can dramatically change how much and what you can eat comfortably. Working with a dietitian helps you:

  1. Prevent side effects like nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea.
  2. Maintain muscle mass by getting enough protein while losing fat.
  3. Avoid nutrient gaps from eating less overall.
  4. Prevent hypoglycemia if you also take insulin or sulfonylureas.
  5. Create a sustainable plan so you can keep the weight off — even after stopping the medication.
  6. The goal isn’t to eat less; it’s to eat smart and protect your long-term health.

Subscribe for a full GLP-1 Checklist.


Click here to sign up!

Share this post

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Print
Email