- GLP-1 weight loss drugs linked to vitamin, mineral, and protein deficiencies
- Stopping GLP-1s often leads to major weight regain, even with lifestyle changes
- Learn how to optimize your nutrient intake
In the last year, evidence has come to light on further health challenges caused by use of GLP-1 weight loss medications. The latest research shows that individuals using these popular medications are at greater risk for several nutrient deficiencies, further compromising their health. This research comes on the heels of other information showing that many GLP-1 users are at risk for muscle loss and small intestine bacteria overgrowth (SIBO). There are also new findings on what happens when these weight loss drugs are discontinued. Are you aware of the risks?
Nutrient Deficiency with GLP-1 Use
A meta-analysis study evaluated 480,825 adults using GLP-1RA (semaglutide, liraglutide and tirzepatide) and their nutrient status. Several nutrient deficiencies were identified. Vitamin D and low iron levels were the most common.
In addition, it was found that individuals often experienced insufficient intake of protein, calcium, vitamin B1/thiamine, and vitamin B12. The longer individuals were on the medications, the greater the nutrient deficits.
Justification for Dietary Supplement Use
Another meta-analysis study showed:
“Robust data from meta-analyses provides justification for a variety of dietary supplements that can support the unintended consequences of GLP-1RA treatments. Multivitamins are recommended to address micronutrient insufficiencies as determined by individual deficiencies and suboptimal intake. Protein supplements can help individuals meet daily protein intake recommendations of 1.2-2.0 g/kg/d. When combined with resistance training, whey protein can help preserve lean body mass during weight loss… Antioxidants and nutrients can mitigate oxidative stress... Fiber and probiotics can improve bowel regularity” and provide other support.
Low Calorie Intake Causes Nutrient Scarcity
There are several reasons for these developments. Nutrient deficits occurred because GLP-1 medications suppress appetite and slow gastric motility that can result in 40% less consumption of food. Many women were found to consume as little as 800 to 1,200 calories per day and many men less than 1,800 calories per day.
This is a reduction of 600 to 1,200 calories per day that leads to a deficit of calories, macronutrients (proteins, fats, carbohydrates), and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phytonutrients). This reduction of calories and protein is considered a substantial reason for loss of muscle mass in those who use these drugs.
In this context with lower nutrient dense food intake, research showed insufficient intake of iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, choline, and vitamins A, B1, B12, C, D, E, and K. Furthermore, there is a greater likelihood of dehydration, loss of electrolytes, metabolic dysfunction, and muscle loss. Scientists warn of similarities seen with gastric bypass patients experiencing nutrient deficits and compromised metabolic health.
Every nutrient is vital to your health, well-being, and vitality. From oxygen transport, heart beats and blood vessels, muscle and nervous system function, fat burning, energy production, mood and cognitive function and so much more, your body needs these nutrients to function and maintain health. If you don’t have them, it creates more physiological stress, breakdown, and dysfunction. Even more challenges can occur when you decide to discontinue the medications.
What Happens After GLP-1 Discontinuation?
These blockbuster medications promote weight loss and uncomfortable side effects that lead to discontinuation of the medications. Current research shows concerns when people discontinue these medications.
A systematic review and meta-analysis showed that patients gained back 60 - 163% of their lost weight after GLP-1 medications were discontinued regardless of lifestyle changes. The recommendation was to stay on these drugs long-term or for life.
The authors of this study concluded:
“In this systematic review and meta-analysis, discontinuing GLP-1RA treatment led to a pooled overall mean weight regain of 2.20 kg in participants taking liraglutide and 9.69 kg in those patients prescribed semaglutide/tirzepatide. The proportion of weight regained was proportional to the amount originally lost. Meaning: Discontinuation of GLP-1RA treatment leads to weight regain, regardless of lifestyle interventions, and should therefore be considered a chronic therapy to prevent weight regain and associated undesirable outcomes related to obesity.”
Healthy Choices Must Be Made
Consuming a calorie rich, nutrient poor Western diet has serious nutritional shortcomings. Furthermore, individuals who struggle with being overweight and/or compromised gastrointestinal health require more nutrients to offset underlying malabsorption and intense metabolic needs. Adding GLP-1 medications with the omission of nutrient dense foods and necessary calories to these concerns makes it imperative to consume a whole food diet and support optimal nutrient intake.
Optimizing Nutrient Intake
Optimizing nutrient intake is first done with real whole foods. Additional support includes Daily Energy Multiple Vitamin, Daily Protector Eye & Immune, Daily Protein Plus, Daily Bone Xcel, or Daily Builder, Vitamin D3 + K2, and Blood Booster.
Individuals do lose weight on these medications, but this comes with an expensive financial and nutritional price tag. Be proactive. Learn. Make wise choices that look at the short and long-term concerns. Make small changes every day and keep building on that success. Nothing replaces real foods, exercise/physical activity, and other good lifestyle habits. It takes work to return to health, but you can do it!
Additional resources:
Ozempic Side Effects Include Pancreatitis, Stomach Paralysis, Thyroid Cancer
GLP-1 Weight Loss Meds Cause Significant Muscle Loss and SIBO
How to Boost Your Satiety Hormone and Curb Food Cravings
Supplements to Boost GLP-1 Naturally
Berberine Naturally Helps Metabolic Health
Gastric Bypass Nutritional Consequences
Real Foods and Flavonoids Protect Your Body from Stress and Aging
