Nutrition belongs in the treatment conversation
The 2025 joint advisory from four nutrition, lifestyle and obesity organizations recommends assessing dietary habits and nutritional needs alongside GLP-1 care. It highlights adequate food quality, prevention of nutrient deficiencies and preservation of muscle and function. Eating less does not tell you whether those needs are being met.
Bring a short account of what you can comfortably eat, what you avoid and what has become difficult. Include food access, budget, symptoms and any existing dietary restrictions. These practical details can make the discussion more useful than a list of supplements you saw promoted online.
Protein has to fit the person and the rest of the diet
The advisory discusses higher protein targets proposed during weight reduction but notes uncertainty about which body-weight measure should be used in obesity. A universal online grams-per-kilogram calculation can therefore look more precise than the evidence supports.
Ask a clinician or registered dietitian for an appropriate plan, particularly if kidney disease or another condition affects your nutrition. Discuss ordinary foods you already use, such as beans, eggs, fish, tofu or yogurt, rather than assuming a branded shake is required. A supplement can be convenient without replacing a varied diet.
Sources: Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: A joint advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Obesity Society - PMC · Healthy Living with Diabetes - NIDDK
Strength work and protein are complementary
The joint advisory specifically cautions that increasing protein alone is likely insufficient to preserve muscle without structured resistance or strength training. It recommends considering physical activity and function as part of care, alongside the food plan.
Ask which activity is appropriate for your mobility, experience and medical history, and whether you need a supervised introduction. A feasible routine you can repeat is more useful than a demanding program you cannot perform safely or consistently.
Track function as well as the scale
Useful discussion points include whether daily tasks feel easier, whether strength or endurance is changing, and whether tiredness or symptoms interfere with meals and movement. Keep those observations separate from the weight log so that a lower number does not hide a growing problem.
If appetite reduction or gastrointestinal symptoms make eating and drinking difficult, ask for clinical help. The medication labels describe gastrointestinal reactions and dehydration-related concerns. Do not treat persistent symptoms as proof that the medicine is working especially well.
Sources: Wegovy prescribing information · Zepbound prescribing information
Ask what support the care plan actually includes
Before enrolling, ask whether nutrition counseling is included, who provides it and how to access it. A downloadable menu, optional coaching add-on and individual dietitian visit are different services. Include any additional charge in the care budget.
Review the plan when medication, appetite, activity or health conditions change. The goal is an individualized routine that supports treatment and day-to-day function; an article cannot select a personal protein target or an exercise prescription.
Sources: Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: A joint advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Obesity Society - PMC · Healthy Living with Diabetes - NIDDK