GLP-1 Medications: What to Know About Ozempic & Mounjaro
In 2025, GLP-1 medications for weight loss have reshaped the conversation around obesity and metabolic health. With widespread use of Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy, and newer GLP-1 agonists, clients are turning to these tools for powerful, clinically-supported results.
But medication alone isn’t a long-term solution—and that’s where registered dietitians play a vital role. From managing nutritional side effects to helping clients build sustainable habits, your guidance is more essential than ever.
What Are GLP-1 Agonists?
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists mimic a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar and satiety. Initially developed for type 2 diabetes, these medications are now FDA-approved or widely prescribed off-label for weight loss.
Common GLP-1 medications:
Ozempic (semaglutide): Weekly injection used for type 2 diabetes but popular for weight loss.
Wegovy (semaglutide): Same active ingredient as Ozempic, but dosed for obesity treatment.
Mounjaro (tirzepatide): Dual GIP and GLP-1 agonist with some of the most impressive weight loss outcomes to date.
Zepbound: A weight loss–specific tirzepatide medication launched in late 2024.
These medications are making headlines—but as dietitians, it’s our job to look beyond the hype and into the habits that matter most.
How GLP-1 Medications Promote Weight Loss
GLP-1 agonists work on multiple physiological pathways:
Slow gastric emptying so clients feel full faster and longer.
Decrease appetite through action on the hypothalamus.
Enhance insulin secretion and stabilize blood glucose.
Reduce cravings and food noise, particularly for ultra-processed foods.
Clinical studies show average weight loss of 15–22% of body weight on tirzepatide and 12–17% on semaglutide when paired with behavioral interventions.
These medications quiet hunger—but they don’t teach clients how to eat. That’s your specialty.
Common Nutrition Side Effects Dietitians Should Address
GLP-1s aren’t magic. Many clients experience digestive discomfort and food aversions that can limit nutrition quality.
Most common side effects:
Nausea
Constipation or diarrhea
Early fullness
Fatigue from under-eating
Aversion to protein or high-fat meals
Without guidance, clients may skip meals, undereat, or lose muscle mass. Dietitians help prevent that by creating tolerable, protein-forward plans tailored to each phase of the medication journey.
Nutrition Counseling Strategies for GLP-1 Clients
Whether a client is just starting Ozempic or preparing to taper off Mounjaro, dietitians help bridge the clinical to the practical.
How to support clients:
Start slow: Recommend soft, low-fat proteins and small meals to reduce nausea.
Set protein goals: Focus on 20–30g per meal to preserve lean mass.
Hydration matters: Encourage electrolyte water or bone broth if nausea limits intake.
Supplement smart: Many clients benefit from B12, magnesium, and vitamin D—see my Amazon storefront for practitioner-approved picks.
Track GI tolerance: Slowly reintroduce trigger foods and fiber as tolerated.
Mindful structure: Not all hunger is physical. Teach emotional awareness and response flexibility.
Get personalized guidance by booking nutrition counseling with a Dietitian Nutritionist
Sample Meal Plans for GLP-1 Users
Many clients on GLP-1 medications can only tolerate small volumes, especially in the early phases. Here’s a sample day that prioritizes easy digestion, high protein, and hydration.
GLP-1 Friendly Meal Plan Example:
Breakfast
2 scrambled eggs with sautéed spinach
½ slice whole grain toast with avocado
Ginger tea or warm bone broth
Lunch
Shredded rotisserie chicken (2 oz) with quinoa and roasted zucchini
Optional: spoonful of Greek yogurt with dill as a sauce
Snack
Smoothie with ½ banana, 1 scoop unflavored protein, almond milk, and chia seeds
See my Amazon store for my go-to protein powders
Dinner
Baked salmon (or tofu) with steamed carrots and mashed sweet potato
Small salad with lemon-olive oil dressing
Clients may need multiple smaller meals or snacks depending on tolerance. Encourage protein-first bites and stopping at the first sign of fullness.
Post-Medication: Supporting Clients After Stopping GLP-1s
Here’s where relapse risk increases. Without the appetite suppression, many clients struggle to maintain weight loss—especially without structured support.
Long-term coaching focus areas:
Rebuilding hunger and fullness cues
Resistance training to rebuild lean mass
High-protein, high-fiber meal prep
Flexible, sustainable routines
Self-compassion for weight fluctuations
Clients may need help adjusting to new signals, letting go of fear around food, or navigating body changes. You provide the psychological safety and practical tools to carry them through.
Final Thoughts: Why Dietitians Are Key in the GLP-1 Era
GLP-1 medications for weight loss like Ozempic and Mounjaro offer powerful tools—but they are just one part of a long-term strategy.
As a dietitian, your role is to help clients:
Understand their medication and side effects
Build sustainable eating habits
Prevent muscle loss and under-nourishment
Support mindset, body image, and lifestyle change
Your expertise transforms temporary results into long-term wellness.
Want Help Navigating Ozempic or Mounjaro?
Whether you’re just starting or preparing to taper off GLP-1 medications, personalized nutrition support can help you feel your best, stay nourished, and avoid burnout.
Book a 1:1 session with a Dietitian Nutritionist
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