The rise of GLP-1 medications has transformed conversations about obesity, diabetes, and weight management. Drugs such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, sold under brand names including Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, have helped many people achieve significant weight loss and improved blood sugar control. Yet as prescriptions continue to climb, experts are warning that the medications are not a substitute for nutrition, movement, and overall wellness.

A growing body of research suggests that patients taking GLP-1 medications may be at increased risk of nutrient deficiencies, dehydration, and muscle loss if they are not intentional about how they care for their bodies during treatment. In response, several leading medical organizations released a joint clinical advisory in 2025 emphasizing that nutrition and lifestyle strategies are essential to maximizing the benefits of GLP-1 therapy and maintaining long-term health.

The medications work by mimicking hormones that regulate appetite and digestion, helping people feel fuller for longer periods. While that reduced appetite often contributes to weight loss, it can also mean people simply eat less of everything—including the nutrients their bodies still require.

“Food is where we obtain most of our nutrients, so when someone eats less, nutrient deficiencies can develop,” registered dietitian Liz Weinandy of The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center wrote in guidance for patients taking GLP-1 medications. “Over time, this can affect every part of the body, such as our bones, muscles and nervous system.”

Protecting muscle and nutritional health

One of the biggest concerns surrounding GLP-1 therapy is the potential loss of lean muscle mass. Research shows that weight loss often includes both fat and muscle, particularly when calorie intake drops sharply. Preserving muscle is important not only for strength and mobility, but also for maintaining metabolism, preventing falls, and supporting healthy aging.

Experts increasingly recommend prioritizing protein intake throughout the day. A patient education article published in JAMA Internal Medicine advises adults taking GLP-1 medications to consume approximately 20 to 30 grams of protein at each meal and aim for roughly 1.0 to 1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily if they are moderately active. Good sources include fish, poultry, eggs, beans, lentils, tofu, Greek yogurt, and other nutrient-dense options. Protein shakes may also be helpful when appetite is low. Exercise, particularly resistance training, is equally important. Strength training helps signal the body to preserve muscle during periods of weight loss.

Hydration is another often overlooked aspect of GLP-1 care. Because these medications may blunt thirst cues in addition to appetite, some patients unintentionally become dehydrated. Dehydration can worsen common side effects such as constipation, fatigue, dizziness, and headaches. Ohio State experts suggest many adults may benefit from consuming between 80 and 100 ounces of fluid daily, although individual needs vary based on body size, activity level, and underlying medical conditions.

In addition to protein and fluids, clinicians are encouraging patients to pay attention to vitamins and minerals that may become more difficult to obtain when food intake declines. Emerging research points to possible deficiencies in vitamin D, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and certain antioxidant vitamins among some GLP-1 users. Healthcare providers may recommend periodic laboratory monitoring and, when appropriate, supplementation through a daily multivitamin or targeted nutrients based on individual needs. Supplements, however, should not replace a balanced eating pattern rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

These recommendations carry particular importance for communities of color, which continue to experience disproportionate rates of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and barriers to accessing nutrition counseling and preventive healthcare. Although GLP-1 medications have generated excitement for their potential benefits, experts caution that equitable access must include culturally responsive education, affordable follow-up care, and support from registered dietitians and healthcare professionals who understand patients’ lived experiences.

As GLP-1 medications become an increasingly common part of obesity and diabetes treatment, experts say the healthiest approach extends beyond the prescription pad. Building meals around protein-rich foods, staying hydrated, engaging in regular physical activity, monitoring for nutritional gaps, and seeking support from qualified healthcare professionals can help patients protect their overall health while pursuing their weight-loss goals. The medications may change how much people eat, but they do not change what the body ultimately needs to thrive.