GLP-1 medications have become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly for weight loss, weight management and blood sugar control. While medications such as Ozempic and Mounjaro can be incredibly effective, one area that is often overlooked is nutrition.

Because GLP-1 medications work partly by reducing appetite, many people naturally begin eating less overall. In some cases, this can lead to a significantly lower calorie intake, which may also mean taking in fewer essential vitamins and minerals on a daily basis.

It’s also important to remember that many people living with obesity may already have underlying nutrient deficiencies before starting GLP-1 medication. Some of the most common include vitamin D, vitamin B12, folate, zinc and magnesium.

When appetite is reduced further, it can become even more difficult to consistently meet your nutritional needs through food alone. This is why nutrition, hydration, protein intake and the right supplements can play an important role while taking GLP-1 medications for weight loss.

This simply highlights the importance of taking a balanced, supportive approach to your health while using them, including paying attention to key nutrients that help support energy levels, muscle health, hydration and overall wellbeing throughout your weight loss journey.

Priority Micronutrients to Consider While Taking GLP-1 Medications 

Vitamin D 

Vitamin D is one of the most important nutrients to pay attention to while taking GPL-1 medications for weight loss. During weight loss, it’s possible to lose muscle alongside body fat, particularly if protein intake is low or nutritional intake becomes inadequate overall. Vitamin D plays an important role in supporting healthy muscles, bones and immune function.

Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system, normal absorption of calcium and phosphorus, normal blood calcium levels, and the maintenance of normal bones, muscles and teeth.

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Vitamin B12 

Vitamin B12 is another key nutrient to consider while taking GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic or Mounjaro. Red meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy products are some of the main dietary sources of vitamin B12. If you are eating less overall, or reducing these food groups due to reduced appetite, you may be at greater risk of low vitamin B12 intake over time.

Vitamin B12 contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, normal functioning of the immune system, normal psychological function and normal red blood cell formation.

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Omega-3 Fish Oils 

If you are not regularly eating oily fish , supplementing with an omega-3 fish oil may also be worth considering while taking GLP-1 medication. Current recommendations suggest aiming for at least two servings of fish per week, but this can become more difficult when appetite is reduced.

Omega-3 fatty acids help support heart, brain and eye health, while also playing a role in overall wellbeing.

EPA and DHA (the two main types of omega-3 fatty acids) contribute to the normal function of the heart. DHA contributes to normal brain function and the maintenance of normal vision. EPA and DHA also contribute to the maintenance of normal blood triglyceride levels where the relevant dose conditions are met.

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Magnesium 

Magnesium is involved in hundreds of processes within the body and may become particularly important during periods of reduced food intake. Magnesium supports muscle function, electrolyte balance, energy production and nervous system function.

Magnesium contributes to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue, electrolyte balance, normal functioning of the nervous system, normal muscle function, normal protein synthesis, normal psychological function and the maintenance of normal bones and teeth.

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Zinc 

Zinc is an essential mineral involved in immune health, skin health and normal metabolism. As appetite decreases on GLP-1 medications, overall zinc intake may also reduce if dietary variety becomes limited.

It also contributes to the maintenance of normal hair, skin and nails, protection of cells from oxidative stress, normal function of the immune system, normal cognitive function, normal macronutrient metabolism and normal protein synthesis.

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Collagen 

Some people notice changes to their hair, skin or nails during periods of rapid weight loss, including while taking GLP-1 medications. Hair shedding during weight loss has been increasingly discussed in recent research and patient experiences. Supporting overall protein intake is important, and collagen can be a helpful addition as part of a balanced diet.

Collagen supplements can also contribute towards your daily protein intake while supporting hair, skin and nail health throughout your weight loss journey. Not sure which collagen is right for you? We’ve made a simple quiz to help you choose which fits best in your daily routine. 

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Your Questions Answered… 

What supplements should I consider while taking GLP-1 medication?

Some of the main nutrients to pay attention to while taking GLP-1 medications include vitamin D and vitamin B12, particularly if your appetite and food intake have reduced significantly. Depending on your diet and individual needs, omega-3 fish oils, magnesium, zinc and collagen may also be worth considering.

Can GLP-1 medications affect nutrient intake?

GLP-1 medications can significantly reduce appetite and overall calorie intake. While this can support weight loss, it may also make it more difficult to consistently consume enough vitamins, minerals, protein and other important nutrients through food alone.

Why is vitamin D important while taking GLP-1 medication?

Vitamin D plays an important role in supporting healthy muscles, bones and immune function, which can be particularly important during weight loss. Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system and the maintenance of normal bones, muscles and teeth.

Why is vitamin B12 important while taking GLP-1 medication?

Vitamin B12 supports energy levels, immune health and normal psychological function. It contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, normal functioning of the immune system, normal psychological function and normal red blood cell formation.

Should I speak to a healthcare professional before taking supplements?

Yes. It’s always important to speak with your doctor, pharmacist or registered dietitian before starting any new supplements, particularly if you are taking medication or managing an underlying health condition. 

Final Thoughts 

At Supplements Made Simple, our aim is to help make supplements feel less confusing and more approachable, with science-backed products designed to fit into real life. 

If you’re taking GLP-1 medication, your nutritional needs may look a little different during your journey, particularly if your appetite and food intake have changed. Focusing on simple, supportive habits and giving your body the nutrients it needs can help you feel your best along the way. 

From everyday essentials such as vitamin D, magnesium and omega-3s to collagen products designed to support hair, skin and protein intake, exploring the right supplements for your individual needs may help support your overall wellbeing while taking GLP-1 medication.  

You can explore the full Supplements Made Simple vitamin range here.