Lauren Manaker is an award-winning registered dietitian-nutritionist and MegaFood Brand Ambassador, with a Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition.
As a registered dietitian, I’m always keeping an eye on the latest buzz in health and nutrition. Lately, GLP-1 medications have become a major topic of conversation. These powerful tools for managing blood sugar and weight have sparked a lot of interest, and for good reason. Their use has certainly helped people manage their blood sugars and weight. But here’s the catch: new data suggests that some users might be missing out on key nutrients, thanks to the appetite suppression that makes these meds so effective, which ultimately leads to eating less overall. So, how can you stay on top of your nutritional game while on this journey? Let’s dive in and make sure your body gets everything it needs to thrive!
What Are GLP-1 Medications?
Before we dive into how to keep your body nourished while on a GLP-1, let’s take a closer look at what these medications actually do. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are a class of medications that mimic the action of a natural hormone in your body called GLP-1. This hormone plays a key role in regulating blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin production and slowing down digestion. It also communicates with your brain to help control appetite, making you feel full sooner and helping reduce how much you eat.
Because of these effects, GLP-1 medications have become a popular and effective tool for managing both blood sugar and weight. But here’s the catch: eating less, while great for weight management, can sometimes mean you’re not getting enough of certain nutrients. Those smaller meals might not provide the full spectrum of nutrients your body needs to function at its best. Let’s explore how to fill those nutritional gaps and keep your body thriving!
Why Supplements May Be Helpful
My philosophy is always "food first." A balanced diet rich in whole foods is the best way to get the nutrients you need. But when your dietary intake is consistently reduced, as it can be with GLP-1 medications or calorie-restrictive diets , supplements can be a practical way to help fill in the nutritional gaps and support your overall health.
Recent research highlights common nutrient insufficiencies in the general population that may be amplified by reduced food consumption. A study in Frontiers in Nutrition pointed to widespread low intake of crucial nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and iron when taking a GLP-1. Thoughtful supplementation can help ensure your body gets what it needs while you work toward your health goals.
Key Supplements to Support Your Health on GLP-1s
If you're taking a GLP-1 medication or on a reduced-calorie diet, focusing on a few key supplements can help you maintain balance and vitality. While every person has unique and individual needs, and I always recommend checking with your doctor before adding anything new to your routine, here are three supplements I often recommend.
Multivitamin
Why It’s Important
A daily multivitamin acts as nutritional foundation support, especially when appetite changes make it difficult to meet all your needs through food alone. It provides a broad range of essential nutrients that support everything from immune health to your energy levels. Also, a multivitamin can help cover nutrients you might be missing.
Why MegaFood’s One Daily Multivitamin?
MegaFood's One Daily Multivitamin is a convenient, one-a-day formula made with 21 essential nutrients. It includes B vitamins to support cellular energy production, vitamin D for bone health, and vitamin C & zinc for immune health.† Formulated with iron plus real food, it’s designed to support your nutritional needs for optimal well-being.†
This unique multivitamin pairs essential vitamins and minerals (like vitamin A) with real food (like carrots). Each serving delivers 10 mcg (400 IU) of vitamin D3 to support healthy bones and 4.5 mg of Iron.† It also includes beta carotene and vitamins C and E to help support normal immune function.† You can take it anytime of day, even on an empty stomach, so it’s a great option for someone who is on a reduced-calorie diet and may need this flexibility to help fill nutrient gaps associated with weight loss diets.
Creatine Monohydrate
Why It’s Important
Creatine is a compound that helps your muscles produce energy. It supports muscle health, strength, and power output, with a proper protein intake, which is particularly important if you are trying to maintain muscle mass. During weight loss, it's crucial to preserve lean muscle mass, and creatine can be a valuable tool in that effort.
Why MegaFood's Micronized Creatine Monohydrate Powder?
This unflavored and micronized powder from MegaFood dissolves easily in hot or cold liquids. Each 5g serving of creatine monohydrate promotes lean muscle mass¹ and may help maintain muscle during periods of weight loss².† Higher Creatine levels may also improve memory function.† By supporting ATP recovery, it supports energy production during intense physical activity† It's a great option for vegans and vegetarians (who have naturally lower levels of creatine) looking for an additional source of Creatine, and it is both Vegan & NSF Certified For Sport.
Calcium & Magnesium
Why It’s Important
Calcium and magnesium are vital partners for bone health and muscle function. As noted earlier, many people already struggle to get enough of these minerals from their diet because the required doses are so high. When food intake decreases, the risk of falling short increases, potentially impacting your long-term bone density and muscle comfort.
Why MegaFood's Calcium & Magnesium Supplement?
This formula from MegaFood helps maintain bone, muscle & cardiovascular health.† It provides 150 mg of calcium per serving to support bone health and 75 mg of magnesium per serving to support muscle function.† It also includes a supportive trio of organic herbs: nettle leaf, dandelion root, and parsley leaf.
A Balanced Approach to Your Health
As a dietitian, I always advocate for a food-first approach to nutrition. But I also recognize that supplements can play a vital role in filling nutritional gaps and supporting your health, especially in certain situations, like weight loss or calorie-restrictive diets. By working with your healthcare provider, you can create a plan that helps you feel your best and ensures your body gets the nutrients it needs.
When it comes to supplements, MegaFood stands out for its commitment to quality and transparency. Their products are crafted with care, made with real food ingredients and science-backed nutrients, and rigorously tested for over 150 pesticides to ensure purity. With MegaFood, you can trust that you’re getting effective, trustworthy support for your health journey.
Explore MegaFood's range of supplements to find the right fit for your needs and take the next step toward feeling your best.
________________________________________
¹when taken in conjunction with a resistance training program
²when taken in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise