Weight Loss Medications 

Unfortunately, access to medical care can be denied based on BMI, hence, we are seeing more and more clients using injectable weight loss medications to access surgery, procedures or fertility treatments. GLP-1 receptor agonist medications for weight loss include semaglutide (Ozempic® and Wegovy®) and liraglutide (Saxenda®). GIP hormone receptor weight loss medications include tirzepatide (Mounjaro® and Zepbound®).

These weight loss injections can be a useful tool in the journey towards improved health and well-being and are most effective when integrated into a holistic approach versus a ‘magic fix’. Their use requires careful consideration and both medical and dietetic supervision. Diet plays a crucial role in the success of weight loss medication regimens. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach, and individualised dietary guidance is essential to maximise the benefits.

How our dietitians can help when on weight loss medications:

It is a very personal decision to include a weight loss medication to assist in weight loss, and we respect people’s autonomy to want to explore options.  Our dietitians take a harm reduction approach, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision about using weight loss medication. For those who have already chosen to begin medication, we are here to offer ongoing support throughout the process.

Our expertise also includes:

• Explaining eligibility criteria for weight loss medications as well as contraindications and risks such as pancreatitis, gallstones, bowel obstruction, kidney damage, worsening diabetes-related retinopathy, thyroid disorders, mental health issues
• Explaining how weight loss medications work in the body and what they do and don’t do and how they affect nutritional intake and adequacy
• Monitoring for signs of disordered eating or an undiagnosed eating disorder, particularly when starting weight loss medication and assessing any changes in eating behaviours that may develop or worsen after beginning medication
• Monitoring and managing common GI disturbances such as constipation, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, reflux, burping, indigestion or abdominal pain
• Making targeted and timely dietary adjustments to meal quality, portion sizes and timing to promote satiety and ensure a balanced nutrient intake. This may include recommendations for protein, fibre and/or vitamin and mineral supplementation
• Preventing other side effects such as low blood sugars, malnutrition, nutritional deficiencies, dehydration, low energy, muscle weakness and hair loss
• Monitoring rate of weight loss and dosages alongside your GP to avoid dose racing
• Minimising loss of lean body mass (muscle) and bone mass, especially in higher risk life stages such as perimenopause and menopause or other co-occurring heath conditions
• Supporting metabolic function and explaining metabolic adaptation that occurs including what happens when the medication is stopped
• Tailoring strategies to ensure that food enjoyment is maintained to preserve social eating and cultural food connection if that is important
• Exploring the complex relationship between food, body, weight and shape
• Maintaining long-term health habits alongside and beyond weight loss medications to avoid the pitfalls of yoyo dieting and weight cycling
• Referring to exercise physiology, physiotherapy psychology or other health professionals if beneficial, to provide holistic and collaborative care

Working with one of our skilled Dietitians is an invaluable addition to your weight loss journey to not only optimise outcomes but to help set realistic values-based goals led by clients and to track habits.