GLP-1 medications have changed the conversation around weight loss. They're changing the conversation around nutrition, too.
Much of the discussion has centered on weight loss, cost, and access. Less attention has been focused on what happens after someone begins eating substantially less.
But what happens when someone starts eating less than before?
GLP-1 medications can affect appetite and digestion, while changes in how much someone eats can also affect overall nutrient intake. Those realities are closely connected.
I've spent more than three decades studying traditional nutrition and holistic health. While much has changed over the years, one thing has remained constant: the body still depends on nutrient-dense foods to get the vitamins, minerals, protein, and healthy fats it needs.
The side effects people talk about, and the ones they don't
Nausea is one of the best-known side effects of GLP-1 medications, but it isn't the only digestive change people may experience.
Clinical trials and FDA prescribing information document gastrointestinal effects associated with GLP-1 medications, including nausea, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort or bloating, and belching. These medications can also affect appetite and feelings of fullness.
Studies show that GLP-1 medications affect both appetite and digestion. They reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness, so many people naturally eat less. Studies also show that certain GLP-1 medications can delay gastric emptying, which can contribute to feeling full longer after eating.
The digestive story is only half of the picture.
The other half is nutrition.
When someone begins eating significantly less food, there are fewer opportunities throughout the day to consume protein, vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients.
Medical and nutrition experts have emphasized the importance of adequate nutrition for people using GLP-1 medications, particularly when overall food intake decreases. That makes a nutrient-dense diet — and individualized guidance from a qualified healthcare practitioner — especially important.
The idea is simple. When you're eating less, every bite has to work harder.
That's why I keep coming back to nutrient density. With food, it's worth asking a simple question:
How much nourishment am I getting from what I eat?
A different way to think about digestive support
Changes in appetite and eating patterns can also put a new focus on everyday digestive wellness.
For me, that brings the conversation back to the fundamentals.
Supporting digestion and maintaining good nutrition have long been foundational principles of holistic health. Those principles don't change because someone starts taking a GLP-1 medication. Real, nutrient-dense foods remain the foundation, while thoughtfully chosen supplements can complement a healthy diet when appropriate for the individual.
And, as I mentioned above, the established roles of individual nutrients and supplements remain the same, whether or not someone takes a GLP-1 medication:
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Probiotics help support a balanced gut microbiome.*
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Digestive enzymes help break down proteins, fats and carbohydrates in food.*
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Magnesium supports essential processes throughout the body, including healthy muscle function and digestive regularity.*
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Nutrient-dense whole foods provide naturally occurring vitamins, minerals and other nutrients.
Importantly, these general nutritional and digestive benefits should not be interpreted to mean that these supplements have been shown to prevent, treat or manage the effects or side effects of GLP-1 medications. Supplements can complement a nutrient-dense diet, but individual needs vary. If you take a GLP-1 medication, talk with your healthcare practitioner about your nutritional needs and whether supplements are appropriate for you.
Supporting people where they are
For those looking for a simple way to complement a nutrient-dense diet with clean nutritional and digestive support, we’ve brought five Smidge® supplements together in our GLP-1 Companion Bundle.*
- This blog post was written by Smidge® co-founder Dan Corrigan. Dan is the author of Eat Well, Supplement Well, Digest Well: A Nonconformist Approach to Optimal Health. He has spent more than three decades studying traditional nutrition and holistic health and has served in leadership roles with organizations dedicated to the work of Dr. Weston A. Price.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
**This article is for general educational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice. GLP-1 medications and nutritional needs vary by individual. Consult your healthcare practitioner about your individual needs, particularly if you take prescription medication.
