By Lizzie Streit, MS, RDN, LD
Semaglutide is a type of medication found in the popular drugs Ozempic and Wegovy. It can be very helpful for weight loss and may be prescribed to those with obesity or medical issues related to excess weight, such as type 2 diabetes.
While some people may view semaglutide as an effective weight loss treatment that circumvents diet and exercise, in reality it is most beneficial when patients also follow a healthy eating pattern. Read on to learn about what to eat when prescribed semaglutide.
How does semaglutide work?
Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. One of the ways these types of medications work is by mimicking hormones involved in regulating feelings of fullness. In other words, it can help you feel full and decrease appetite.
In addition to stimulating weight loss through these mechanisms, drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy may also improve obesity-related issues. In fact, Ozempic was originally approved as a treatment for type 2 diabetes and has been shown to lower hemoglobin A1C levels. Other possible benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists include reduced blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar.
What type of diet should you follow when prescribed semaglutide?
Due to the way semaglutide works, the medication may lead to gastrointestinal (GI)-related side effects. Semaglutide helps slow down digestion, which means overeating or eating foods that take a long time to digest could result in nausea, stomach pain, gas, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea.
Eating a balanced diet that provides enough calories and features nutritious foods that don’t exacerbate GI symptoms is helpful in preventing and managing side effects of semaglutide. As a result, people may be more likely to stick with the medication and experience successful weight loss.
The best number of calories per day will be different for each person, depending on needs, size, and activity level. Some people may benefit from eating 1200 calories per day while others need closer to 2000 calories per day.
However, what you eat to make up your daily calories is likely more important than hitting an exact number. The recommended diet for patients on semaglutide is similar to the suggestions for a healthy diet in general: lots of non-starchy vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fat sources. High-fat foods, especially those with unhealthy fats like fried foods and ice cream, should be limited. They are harder to digest and may contribute to GI symptoms. Alcohol and foods high in added sugar may also trigger side effects.
Some people find that symptoms like nausea and bloating make it difficult to eat enough while taking semaglutide. In this instance, it may be helpful to eat several small meals, made up of healthy foods, throughout the day instead of typical larger ones. Staying hydrated and sticking to low-sugar, high-fiber carbs and lean proteins may also help.
Here are some of the best foods to eat while taking semaglutide:
All kinds of vegetables, including leafy greens, mushrooms, and zucchini
Whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa, and millet
Low- or non-fat dairy, such as milk, Greek yogurt, and cottage cheese
Fruits, especially berries, apples, and oranges instead of dried fruits to avoid large spikes in blood sugar
Lean protein sources, including chicken breasts, eggs, and beans
Keep in mind that the suggestions in this article are general tips. It’s important for individuals interested in taking semaglutide to discuss the best dietary choices for them with their healthcare providers.
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