Expert warns Sheffield's Mounjaro users need to eat more of these foods
GLP-1 weight loss medications like Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Wegovy have exploded in popularity after countless testimonies from celebrities and regular people alike, with worldwide Google searches for GLP-1 medications skyrocketing to 410% above their average level since February 2021.
However, this surge in popularity has led to many people not fully understanding how these medications can impact their health, so Dr. Ayesha Bryant, medical expert at GLP-1 review site Vaccine Alliance , has provided some expert tips on what foods people should eat more of when taking GLP-1 weight loss medications such as semaglutide, which is also known as Ozempic and Wegovy, and tirzepatide, also known as Mounjaro.
“Patients should consult with their doctor or a licensed dietitian to construct a bespoke nutrition plan while taking GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Mounjaro, or Wegovy,” commented Dr. Bryant. “However, in general, patients should eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, with special care taken to include foods that have gone through as little processing as possible.”
Dr. Bryant expanded on why patients should focus on these foods: “Eating more whole vegetables and fruits helps prevent micronutrient deficiencies and promotes healthy digestive function. Some great choices for vegetables are leafy greens like broccoli, spinach, and kale; carrots, bell peppers; and legumes like beans and peas. For fruits, grapefruit, kiwifruit, apples, and berries are all great choices.
“Lean protein sources like lean meats, fish, eggs, seeds, and nuts are all excellent choices for patients taking GLP-1 medications. Patients should also look for foods rich in unsaturated fats and low in saturated fats. Some sources of healthy fats are plant-based oils like olive oil, seeds, nuts, fatty fish like salmon, and avocados.
“Whole grains should be preferred over refined grains. Choosing brown rice over white rice is a great choice, as is picking whole wheat options like whole wheat bread rather than white bread or pasta. Oats and barley are other good whole grains to include in your diet.
“Finally, patients should stay well hydrated. Staying hydrated can help minimize some gastrointestinal side effects like constipation. Water should be the primary source of hydration, which can be flavored with slices of lemon, lime, or similar. Herbal teas are also a good option.”