GLP-1 Benefits, Side Effects & What to Expect
You’ve been researching GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound. Maybe your doctor mentioned them at your last appointment or you've seen the headlines about dramatic weight loss results.
If you’ve been on and off diets for most of your life, only to end up right back where you started (or heavier), you might be wondering: Could this finally be the answer I've been searching for?
While GLP-1 medications can support your weight loss goals, we believe in making informed decisions about your health. That requires a deeper conversation than what you'll typically hear. It starts with understanding how these medications work, what to realistically expect, and how to create the lasting changes that help you maintain results long after you stop taking them.
What Are GLP-1 Medications?
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone your body naturally produces to regulate blood sugar and appetite. GLP-1 medications are synthetic versions of this hormone that help your body manage blood sugar levels and reduce appetite.
While GLP-1 medications were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, they have become widely recognized for their effectiveness in weight management.
These are the two most common GLP-1 medications:
Semaglutide-based medications:
Ozempic (approved for diabetes)
Wegovy (approved for weight loss)
Tirzepatide-based medications:
Mounjaro (approved for diabetes)
Zepbound (approved for weight loss)
These medications work by mimicking your body's natural GLP-1 hormone, which slows digestion, reduces appetite, and helps you feel fuller longer. They're typically administered as a weekly injection, though oral versions are also being developed.
Benefits of GLP-1 Medications
Weight Loss and Appetite Regulation
The most well-known benefit of GLP-1 medications is significant weight loss. Clinical studies show that people taking these medications can lose 15-20% of their body weight over 12-18 months when combined with lifestyle changes.
Additionally, many people report these GLP-1 benefits:
Reduced food noise and constant thoughts about their next meal or snack
Decreased cravings and less intense urges to binge eat
Feeling satisfied with smaller portions without feeling deprived
For people who've spent years trying to quiet their obsessive thoughts about food or feeling out of control around eating, this mental relief can be life-changing.
Improved Health Markers
GLP-1 benefits go beyond weight loss, particularly for people managing chronic health conditions:
Improved blood sugar control and A1C levels for people with type 2 diabetes
Reduced blood pressure and improved cardiovascular health
Lower cholesterol levels and improved lipid profiles
Decreased inflammation markers throughout the body
Reduced risk of heart attack and stroke in people with existing cardiovascular disease
These improvements often happen relatively quickly, sometimes even before significant weight loss occurs.
Understanding GLP-1 Side Effects
Like all prescription drugs, GLP-1 medications do come with potential side effects. Being prepared for what to expect can make the difference between successfully adjusting to the medication and abandoning it in frustration.
Common Side Effects
The most frequently reported side effects are gastrointestinal:
Nausea (especially in the first few weeks)
Vomiting
Diarrhea or constipation
Stomach discomfort or bloating
Most of these side effects are temporary and improve as your body adjusts to the medication, typically within the first 4-8 weeks. They're often most intense after dose increases and tend to decrease over time.
Managing Side Effects Effectively
Having a clear plan to manage side effects makes treatment much more sustainable. Here’s where to start:
Eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day instead of large portions
Choose easily digestible foods, especially during the adjustment period
Stay hydrated and avoid foods that trigger nausea
Take the medication at a consistent time each week
Work with a registered dietitian to ensure adequate nutrition even when appetite is reduced
Muscle Loss Concerns
A GLP-1 side effect that doesn't get enough attention is muscle loss. Research shows that 25-40% of weight lost with GLP-1 medications can come from lean muscle mass. This can significantly affect your metabolism and long-term health.
Protecting your muscle mass requires:
Adequate protein intake (often higher than you might naturally consume with reduced appetite)
Regular resistance training or strength-building activities
Monitoring your body composition, not just your weight
Working with a dietitian to ensure you're meeting your body's nutritional needs
This is one key reason why medication alone isn't enough on your weight loss journey. You need comprehensive support to ensure you're losing fat, not muscle, and building sustainable health habits.
Is a GLP-1 Medication Right for You?
GLP-1 medication can be a powerful tool, but it’s not a magic pill. It works best when combined with holistic support that addresses the root causes of your struggles with food and weight.
You might be a good candidate for GLP-1 medication if:
You've tried multiple approaches to weight loss without sustainable results
You struggle with emotional eating, binge eating, or constant food thoughts
You have underlying health conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure
You're ready to do the deeper work of healing your relationship with food
You want support that goes beyond just a prescription
GLP-1 medications might not be the right fit if:
You have a history of certain medical conditions (your doctor will evaluate this)
You're not ready to commit to the lifestyle changes needed for long-term success
You're looking for a quick fix without addressing underlying patterns
Why Dietitian Support Matters During Your GLP-1 Journey
While your doctor can prescribe GLP-1 medications and monitor your medical progress, they typically don't have the time or specialized training to help you navigate how these medications impact your relationship with food and your long-term success. Research shows that after stopping GLP-1 medication, many people regain about two-thirds of the weight they lost. This happens because the medication wasn't paired with sustainable habit changes.
Working with a GLP-1 dietitian helps you create consistent eating patterns that protect your muscle mass, build supportive nutrition habits that last beyond the prescription, and develop a relationship with food that doesn't rely on medication. The goal is to use the medication as a helpful tool without becoming dependent on it. With the right support, you can maintain your results long-term through habits that feel realistic, healthy, and sustainable.
You deserve more than just a prescription.
Learn how we support our clients to heal their relationship with food, learn intuitive eating, and finally feel confident in their bodies, with or without GLP-1 medication. Book a free consultation to discover what comprehensive care looks like for your unique situation.
