A Nutritionist’s View of GLP-1 Medications: Why Food Still Matters
GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro have changed the conversation around weight loss, especially for women in midlife dealing with insulin resistance, stubborn weight gain, and hormonal changes.
While these medications can be powerful tools, they’re not magic bullets.
As a clinical nutritionist, I work with women who are using these injectables and the most sustainable success always comes when we pair real food, personalised nutrition, and muscle-preserving habits with their medication.
This is where programs like Metabolic Balance® come in - we use food as the foundation and, if needed layer in medications for additional support.
Let’s break it down -What Are GLP-1 Medications?
GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic the action of the body’s own natural glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar, slow digestion, and reduce appetite, making it easier to eat less and feel satisfied.
The most common include:
Ozempic (semaglutide): used weekly for blood sugar control and weight loss.
Wegovy (higher dose semaglutide): approved specifically for weight loss.
Mounjaro (tirzepatide): mimics both GLP-1 and GIP hormones for enhanced effect.
One of the biggest benefits is that they reduce “food noise”- those constant thoughts about eating, which many women find mentally freeing.
But they don’t:
Replenish nutrients
Preserve muscle mass
Teach you how to eat for your body
Address midlife hormone changes or inflammation
Support long-term success once medication stops
What About Side Effects?
GLP-1s can cause side effects, especially if appetite drops too quickly or nutrition isn’t prioritised.
Common symptoms include nausea, constipation, bloating or indigestion, fatigue or low energy and nutrient deficiencies from eating too little.
Without proper nutrition, these side effects can worsen. That’s why pairing medication with a well-planned, personalised nutrition approach is so important.
Common Risks: Muscle Loss, Nutrient Gaps & Weight Rebound
When you're eating less, you may not be getting the nutrients your body needs. This can lead to:
Low iron, magnesium, B vitamins, and protein
Hair thinning, sluggish energy, or poor digestion
Loss of lean muscle, which slows your metabolism
Higher risk of rebound weight gain when you stop the medication
Especially in midlife, protecting muscle is critical for strength, bone health, and metabolic stability.
The Power of Combining GLP-1s with Metabolic Balance®
Using a structured food-based program like Metabolic Balance® while on a GLP-1 medication allows you to:
- ✓ Meet your nutrient needs
- ✓ Preserve muscle and metabolism
- ✓ Support digestion and energy
- ✓ Build sustainable habits
- ✓ Reduce the dose which often means fewer side effects
- ✓ Maintain your results when medication stops
In fact, many clients are able to stay on lower doses of medication with less discomfort because they’re supporting their body with the right foods.
How They Work Together:
| GLP-1 Medications | Metabolic Balance® |
|---|---|
| Reduce hunger and “food noise” | Teaches you what, when, and how to eat |
| Improve blood sugar control | Customises food choices to regulate insulin |
| Help with initial weight loss | Builds long-term, sustainable eating patterns |
| Suppress appetite | Ensures nutrient-dense, muscle-protecting meals |
| May cause side effects or deficiencies | Replenishes nutrients and supports detox |
| Often need to be stopped eventually | Helps maintain results once medication stops |
| May require higher doses over time | Supports lower doses with better tolerability |
Why This Matters for Women in Midlife
Perimenopause and menopause can bring:
Slower metabolism
Hormonal shifts
Increased inflammation and insulin resistance
More stress, disrupted sleep, and cravings
GLP-1s may reduce appetite, but Metabolic Balance addresses the root causes behind midlife weight gain and metabolic slowdown.
By combining the two, you can lose weight and feel better, without depleting your body in the process.
Want a Personalised Menopause Nutrition Plan (With or Without GLP-1s)?
Whether you’re just beginning your health journey or already using a GLP-1 medication like Ozempic, Wegovy or Mounjaro, you deserve a plan that supports your whole body, protects your muscle, and keeps your metabolism working for the long term. If you haven’t started medication yet, my approach is to begin with Metabolic Balance® a personalised menopause nutrition program that helps reset your metabolism naturally. Then, if you still need a boost, a GLP-1 can be layered in with a solid nutritional foundation already in place.
If you’re not on medication yet, we’ll start with Metabolic Balance®—a personalised menopause nutrition program that helps reset your metabolism naturally. Then, if extra support is needed, a GLP-1 can be added on top of a solid nutritional foundation.
Let’s create a sustainable plan that supports your body through menopause and beyond.
Book your free 20 minute clarity call now.
Judy
