Best Diet to Follow While On GLP-1 Medications: High Protein!

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, commonly known as GLP-1 drugs, are an increasingly popular medication option for managing type 2 diabetes. These injectable drugs mimic the effects of the GLP-1 hormone in the body, stimulating the release of insulin from the pancreas and suppressing excess glucose production in the liver. One of the most notable mechanisms of GLP-1 drugs is their ability to suppress appetite. By binding to receptors in the brain that control hunger and satiety, GLP-1 drugs promote feelings of fullness and reduce calorie intake. This leads to weight loss for many patients taking these medications. Some common GLP-1 drugs prescribed include:

• Liraglutide (Victoza)
• Semaglutide (Ozempic)
• Exenatide (Byetta, Bydureon)
• Dulaglutide (Trulicity)
• Lixisenatide (Adlyxin)

Potential Nutritional Deficiencies with GLP-1 Drugs

While appetite suppression can be beneficial for weight control, it poses the risk of inadequate calorie and nutrient intake. Patients on GLP-1 drugs may feel satisfied with less food and have difficulty finishing normal-sized meals. Reduced food intake can lead to inadequate intake of key nutrients:

• Protein: Preserving muscle mass, wound healing, immune function. Deficiency causes muscle wasting, weakness, edema.
• Iron: Oxygen transport in blood, enzyme functions. Deficiency causes fatigue, impaired immune function, anemia.
• Calcium: Bone and tooth health, nerve signaling. Deficiency causes osteoporosis, fractures, cramps.
• Vitamin B12: Nerve function, red blood cell formation. Deficiency causes numbness, memory problems, fatigue.
• Vitamin D: Calcium absorption, immune function. Deficiency causes muscle weakness, bone loss, frequent illness.

Sample High Protein Meal Plan

Here is a sample one-day meal plan showcasing how to incorporate high protein foods and meal replacements while taking GLP-1 drugs:

The Importance of Protein on GLP-1 Medications

Getting adequate protein is so important for individuals taking GLP-1 medications. Key benefits of prioritizing protein include:

• Preserving muscle mass
• Promoting satiety
• Managing hunger
• Supporting weight loss goals
• Ensuring adequate nutrition

Consuming enough high-quality protein is essential for preserving health and muscle mass while benefiting from appetite suppression.

Recommended Protein Intake

• Per Meal: At least 30g of protein per meal
• Percentage of Calories: 25-35% of total daily calories from protein
• Timing: Consume protein spaced throughout the day with every meal and snack

Breakfast

• Chike iced coffee protein shake with almond milk, banana, and nut butter (25g protein)
• Greek yogurt parfait with berries and walnuts (15g protein)

Read More: Best Diabetic Breakfast Ideas

Snack

• Hummus with carrots and bell peppers (5g protein)
• Caramel Crunch protein bar (15g protein)

Lunch

• Grilled chicken salad with chickpeas and avocado (30g protein)

Snack

• Cottage cheese with pineapple (15g protein)

Dinner

• Chili made with ground turkey, beans, and vegetables over brown rice (25g protein)

Dessert

• 
  Fluffy Lemon protein bar (15g protein)

This sample plan provides 145g of protein from both whole foods and higher protein meal replacements.

Check out this 7-Day Sample Bariatric Meal Plan to see a similar full week meal plan.

High Protein Foods at AmBari Nutrition

Ambari Nutrition offers a range of high protein diabetic and bariatric foods including the best meal replacement shakes and bars ideal for those on GLP-1 drugs. The protein shakes provide a nourishing blend of proteins, vitamins, and minerals. The protein bars offer a quick, protein-rich snack. These products allow individuals to meet their protein needs while aligning with the appetite-reducing effects of GLP-1 medications.

Conclusion

With mindful meal planning focused on protein sources, the benefits of GLP-1 drugs can be achieved while still supporting overall healthy nutrition. Talk with your doctor about the proper nutrition and protein intake for your individual needs.

Author: Carrie H. Carrie is a passionate health and nutrition writer who transforms complex medical research into accessible, evidence-based content to empower readers to make informed choices about their wellbeing. With a background in science and a dedication to helping others live healthier lives, she provides thoughtful analysis of the latest studies and practical, actionable advice readers can apply to their own lives.

Reviewed By: Dr. Kevin Huffman Dr. Huffman is an accomplished board-certified bariatric physician with extensive clinical experience and expertise in treating obesity. He has trained countless healthcare providers and founded American Bariatric Consultants to develop highly sought-after protocols, training materials and continuing education used widely by medical societies, hospitals and physicians. Dr. Huffman's impact reaches far beyond direct patient care, as he actively prepares the next generation of physicians to achieve board certification in bariatrics, thereby exponentially expanding access to this vital medical treatment.