How should I manage my diet on GLP-1s? A guide to healthy eating
Kim Phelps
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Dec 8, 2023
Managing your diet on a new weight loss journey can be complex. Take a look at our expert guide on what to eat when you’re using a GLP-1.
Starting a medication like Mounjaro can be an exciting step in your weight loss journey but it’s important to understand the side effects that it can cause so that you can effectively manage them while still maximising the results of your medication.
Mounjaro contains an active ingredient called tirzepatide, it is a once-weekly injection that was developed by Eli Lilly and Company to treat type 2 diabetes in adults but has recently been approved by the FDA for weight management. [1]
Tirzepatide is classified as a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which means it targets and activates specific receptors in the body that help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce appetite.
By acting on both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, tirzepatide helps to improve blood sugar control, slow gastric emptying and increase feelings of satiety after meals. It is important to use Mounjaro in conjunction with a balanced diet and regular exercise program for optimal results.
Clinical trials have shown that this dual-action approach can help people lose up to 20% of their body weight after 72 weeks with diet and exercise. [2] In comparison, single-acting GLP-1 agonists like Wegovy and Ozempic typically result in an average weight loss of 15% and 7% respectively. [3]
Like most medications, Mounjaro has the potential to cause side effects but the good news is that they are normally quite mild and manageable. Most people find that they are most likely to experience these side effects when they start treatment or when their dosage increases. This is why you start on a lower dose and work your way up to a higher dose while your body gets used to the medication (this is called titration).
Gastrointestinal or digestive side effects are common with Mounjaro and may include symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and mild abdominal pain. Overall, gastrointestinal side effects are usually mild but it is important to monitor for any changes in symptoms and discuss any questions or concerns with your healthcare provider.
Injection site reactions is a side effect that can occur with the use of injectable weight loss drugs like Mounjaro. These reactions typically manifest as redness, pain, or swelling at the site where the medication was injected. While these reactions are usually mild and resolve on their own within a few days, they can be frustrating for some individuals. [4]
To help alleviate discomfort caused by injection site reactions, you can apply an ice pack to the area after the injection to help relieve pain and swelling.
To prevent future injection site reactions try changing the site where the medication is injected each time. Mounjaro can be injected into the abdomen, top of the thigh, or the back of the upper arm, meaning you have plenty of options for rotating injection sites.
Other common side effects of Mounjaro may include fatigue and tiredness. These side effects are typically mild in severity and may improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication and reduced calorie intake. It is important to monitor for any changes in symptoms and report them to your healthcare provider promptly. [4]
It is essential to discuss any concerns or symptoms with your healthcare provider while taking Mounjaro. They can provide guidance on how to manage side effects and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. Remember that the benefits of Mounjaro in managing your condition may outweigh the potential risks of side effects, but it is important to stay informed and proactive in your healthcare journey.
In some cases, Mounjaro can cause more serious side effects which cannot be managed with dietary or lifestyle interventions. If you have any concerns about Mounjaro long-term side effects or you have a health history that includes severe reactions, it is important to escalate these concerns to a healthcare professional.
One serious side effect of Mounjaro is the potential development of pancreatitis, which can present with severe abdominal pain, chills, vomiting, fever, or lightheadedness. Patients experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention. [4]
In some cases, Mounjaro may also lead to severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic reaction that happens very quickly). Allergic reactions can cause fainting, a very rapid heartbeat, swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat, problems breathing or swallowing and severe rash or itching. Patients who experience a severe allergic reaction should seek emergency medical care. [4]
Additionally, Mounjaro has been associated with cases of acute kidney injury, especially in patients with preexisting kidney conditions or those taking medications that affect kidney function. Signs of kidney injury such as urinating less frequently or swelling in the extremities, should be promptly reported to healthcare providers. [4]
When it comes to using tirzepatide (Mounjaro) it is essential to follow the prescribed dosage as directed by your healthcare provider. The medication is available in various strengths, and your doctor will determine the most appropriate dose for you based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
Tirzepatide is administered once a week as a subcutaneous injection. It is important to visually inspect the liquid solution before each use, and if you notice any particles or discoloration, do not use the medication. Clean the injection site by rubbing alcohol before administering the dose, and remember to rotate injection sites to prevent injury under the skin.
Your doctor will start you on the lowest dose and gradually increase it to achieve the desired effect while minimizing the risk of side effects. It is crucial to adhere to your doctor's instructions and use the medication regularly to obtain the maximum benefit.
Remember that sharing needles or pens is not safe and can lead to the transmission of infections. Each pen should be used by only one person, and it is important to follow proper hygiene practices when using the medication.
At Levity, we are passionate about patient safety and want to set you up for success on your weight loss journey while minimising the impact of potential side effects.
Here are some topics that you'll get the chance to discuss with your healthcare provider before you start weight loss treatment with Levity.
At Levity, we only prescribe Mounjaro to people with a BMI (body mass index) of over 30, or over 27 for people with certain weight-related medical conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure.
If you're not sure that Mounjaro is the right weight loss medication for you, Levity also offers medications like Wegovy and compounded semaglutide. The key difference is that these medications contain an active ingredient called semaglutide and they only target the GLP-1 receptor rather than both the GIP and GLP-1 receptors.
Plus, with Levity you pay one fee that covers your consultation, prescription, clinical support, health coaching and medication delivered to your door each month.
Start a consultation with Levity from the comfort of your home to find out if you’re eligible for Mounjaro and start your weight loss journey.
[1] Farzam K, Patel P. Tirzepatide [Internet]. PubMed. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK585056
[2] Jastreboff AM, Aronne LJ, Ahmad NN, Wharton S, Connery L, Alves B, et al. Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity. New England Journal of Medicine [Internet]. 2022 Jun 4;387(3). Available from: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2206038
[3] How do Mounjaro, Wegovy & Ozempic compare for weight loss? [Internet]. Drugs.com. Available from: https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/mounjaro-wegovy-ozempic-compare-weight-loss-3570898/
[4] HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION [Internet]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/215866s000lbl.pdf
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Managing your diet on a new weight loss journey can be complex. Take a look at our expert guide on what to eat when you’re using a GLP-1.
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