Nutritional Support Alongside Weight-Loss Medications

Weight-loss medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists can be a helpful tool for some people — but they can impact appetite, digestion, and nutrient intake.

Many individuals experience digestive symptoms, fatigue, reduced appetite, muscle loss, nutrient shortfalls, or difficulties maintaining results long-term. Without appropriate nutritional care, these challenges can undermine both health and long-term wellbeing.

As a Registered Nutritional Therapist with a functional medicine approach, I offer evidence-based nutritional and lifestyle support alongside prescribed weight-loss medication. I do not prescribe or advise on medication, but focus on supporting the body while treatment is in place.

“If nutritional care is not integrated alongside treatment, there’s a risk of replacing one set of health problems with another.”
— Dr Marie Spreckley, Medical Research Council

How nutritional therapy can help

Personalised nutritional support during medical weight loss may help to:

• Support gut health and digestive comfort (including nausea, reflux, constipation, or diarrhoea)

• Preserve muscle mass through adequate protein and micronutrient intake

• Maintain energy levels and blood sugar balance

• Reduce the risk of nutrient deficiencies

• Support bile flow, gallbladder health, and digestion

• Encourage sustainable habits for long-term weight maintenance

• Support individuals who are preparing to come off medication

All recommendations are tailored to the individual, taking into account health history, symptoms, dietary preferences, and — where appropriate — nutrigenomic insights.

Common concerns I hear from clients

“I’m worried I’m not eating enough.”
This is very common. Appetite suppression can make it difficult to meet basic nutritional needs. Support focuses on helping you get maximum nourishment from smaller amounts of food, without pressure or rigid rules.

“I feel tired, weak, or flat since starting the medication.”
Low energy can be linked to inadequate protein, calories, micronutrients, or blood sugar imbalance. Nutritional therapy aims to support energy, resilience, and metabolic health.

“My digestion has changed — and not for the better.”
Nausea, reflux, bloating, constipation, or diarrhoea are frequently reported. Individualised nutrition strategies can help support gut function and comfort while the body adapts.

“I’m losing weight, but I’m worried I’m also losing muscle.”
This is a valid concern. Preserving muscle mass is essential for long-term health, metabolic function, and maintaining results. Nutrition plays a key role here.

“I’m scared that when I stop the medication, everything will come back.”
Many people worry about regain. Nutritional support focuses on building foundational habits and metabolic stability, so you feel more confident about the future.

“I feel embarrassed asking these questions.”
You’re not alone — and there is no judgement here. This is a supportive, confidential space to talk openly about food, body changes, symptoms, and concerns.