Guide to Supplements for Individuals on GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications

Understanding GLP-1 Medications

GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) medications, such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), liraglutide (Saxenda), and tirzepatide (Mounjaro), are commonly prescribed for weight loss and type 2 diabetes management. These medications work by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, which plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar and appetite. Here’s how they function:

• Increase insulin secretion after meals, helping manage blood sugar levels.

• Slow gastric emptying, keeping you feeling fuller for longer periods.

• Reduce appetite by acting on hunger-regulating centers in the brain, making it easier to control food intake.

While these medications are highly effective for weight loss, they can also lead to muscle loss and nutrient deficiencies. Taking proactive steps to preserve muscle mass, support digestive health, and ensure sufficient nutrient intake is essential for individuals using GLP-1 medications.

Potential Risks of GLP-1 Medications

• Muscle Mass Reduction: These medications can lead to the loss of lean muscle, which may slow metabolism and reduce strength. Ensuring sufficient protein intake is key to preventing this.

• Nutrient Deficiencies: Reduced food intake can lead to insufficient intake of essential vitamins and minerals.

• Digestive Issues: Slower digestion may cause nausea, constipation, or bloating. Supporting gut health can help alleviate these symptoms.

Importance of High-Quality, Third-Party Tested Supplements

Purchasing high-quality, third-party tested supplements from trusted retailers is crucial to avoid contaminants and ensure potency. Avoid purchasing from sources like Amazon, as studies show these supplements can be contaminated with heavy metals or may not contain the active ingredients listed on the label.

Where to Purchase: Fullscript Vitamin Dispensary

For access to professional-grade, third-party tested supplements, we recommend purchasing through Fullscript. This trusted online dispensary guarantees high-quality products from reputable brands. Unlike unreliable marketplaces, Fullscript ensures that the supplements you receive meet strict quality standards.

• All supplements are third-party tested for purity and potency

• Fullscript offers access to professional-grade products used by healthcare practitioners

• Convenient online ordering and shipping

You can easily find and purchase all of the supplement recommendations in this guide from Fullscript through this link. Ensure you're getting the best supplements for your health while on GLP-1 medications.

Key Supplements to Consider

1. Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) with 2.5g of Leucine

1. Why it’s helpful: BCAAs, especially leucine, stimulate muscle protein synthesis, which helps preserve muscle mass during weight loss.

2. How to use: Take BCAAs with 2.5g of leucine before or after workouts to help maintain muscle tissue.

2. Protein Powder (Whey or Pea-Based)

1. Why it’s helpful: Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and satiety. Whey protein is quickly absorbed, while pea protein is a plant-based alternative that also offers a complete amino acid profile.

2. How to use: Consume 20 grams of whey protein powder or 30 grams of pea-based protein powder per serving to supplement meals or snacks, ensuring adequate protein intake even when appetite is reduced.

3. Creatine

1. Why it’s helpful: Creatine is well-known for its ability to increase muscle strength and improve exercise performance. It's especially beneficial for preserving muscle mass during periods of weight loss, making it a great addition for individuals on GLP-1 medications. Creatine helps maintain energy production in muscle cells, which can combat muscle loss and help you stay strong while losing fat.

2. How to use: Take 3-5 grams of creatine monohydrate daily, mixed with water or a protein shake. It can be taken at any time, though many prefer it around workouts for maximum benefit.

4. Collagen Powder

1. Why it’s helpful: Collagen supports skin, joint, and muscle recovery by providing essential amino acids like glycine and proline.

2. How to use: Take 10-15 grams daily, added to beverages like coffee or smoothies.

5. Multivitamin

1. Why it’s helpful: A multivitamin helps fill nutritional gaps caused by reduced food intake. The recommended product via Full Script includes bioavailable forms of B vitamins, vitamin D3, zinc, magnesium, and selenium.

2. How to use: Take as directed, ideally with a meal for better absorption.

6. Fiber Supplement

1. Why it’s helpful: A fiber supplement can ease constipation, a common side effect of GLP-1 medications, and promote a healthy gut microbiome.

2. How to use: Start with 5-10 grams per day, gradually increasing to 25-30 grams as tolerated.

7. Probiotic

1. Why it’s helpful: Probiotics support gut health, improve digestion, and may alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms related to GLP-1 medications.

2. How to use: take daily with or without food.

8. Saccharomyces Boulardii

1. Why it’s helpful: This beneficial yeast helps prevent diarrhea and supports a healthy gut, which is particularly important for those who experience digestive disturbances from GLP-1 medications.

2. How to use: Take 5-10 billion CFUs daily on an empty stomach for best absorption.

9. Aloe Vera Juice

1. Why it’s helpful: Aloe vera juice soothes the digestive tract and helps alleviate constipation or gastric discomfort caused by GLP-1 medications.

2. How to use: Drink 1-4 ounces of pure aloe vera juice daily.

10. NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)

1. Why it’s helpful: NAC is a powerful antioxidant that supports liver function and detoxification. It can also help protect the gut lining and improve overall digestive health.

2. How to use: Take 600-1200 mg of NAC daily, ideally on an empty stomach.

11. Protein Bars

• Why it’s helpful: Protein bars are a convenient way to boost protein intake, especially when appetite is low. Choose bars with at least 15-20 grams of protein and minimal sugar.

• How to use: Enjoy as a meal supplement or snack to maintain a steady protein intake throughout the day.

Summary

GLP-1 medications are effective for weight loss, but they can lead to muscle loss, nutrient deficiencies, and digestive issues. Incorporating the right supplements—such as BCAAs, protein powders, multivitamins, and digestive supports like Saccharomyces boulardii and aloe vera juice—can help maintain muscle, improve digestion, and prevent deficiencies.

Always buy from trusted retailers like Fullscript to ensure you’re getting high-quality, third-party tested products. By doing so, you can support your health effectively and safely while on GLP-1 medications.