GLP-1 Medications and Nutrition Counseling: What to Know From a Weight-Inclusive Perspective

Jan 28

GLP-1 medications (such as semaglutide and tirzepatide) have become increasingly visible in healthcare and media spaces. They’re often discussed in the context of appetite suppression and weight loss, with little attention given to nutrition adequacy, side effects, or the psychological impact of eating less.

At Mind Belly Soul Nutrition, we believe it’s important to zoom out. Health is not just about appetite changes or numbers, it’s about nourishment, energy, digestion, mental well-being, and your relationship with food.

What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists are medications that influence blood sugar regulation, digestion, and appetite signaling. They work by:

Slowing gastric emptying
Increasing feelings of fullness
Reducing hunger cues
Supporting blood sugar regulation

While these effects can be medically appropriate for some individuals, they can also significantly change how and how much someone eats, making nutrition guidance essential.

Where GLP-1 Conversations Often Fall Short

Many discussions around GLP-1s focus almost exclusively on weight loss outcomes. What’s often left out includes:

Risk of underfueling and nutrient deficiencies
Loss of hunger cues and body trust
Gastrointestinal side effects (nausea, constipation, early fullness)
Increased food rules or restriction mindset
Triggers for disordered eating or eating disorder relapse

Without proper support, these medications can unintentionally reinforce harmful dieting rather than promote sustainable health.

Why Nutrition Counseling Matters When Using GLP-1s

Nutrition counseling isn’t about forcing more control, it’s about supporting your body through significant physiological changes. A registered dietitian can help you:

Ensure adequate nourishment despite reduced appetite
Prevent muscle loss and low energy
Manage GI side effects with gentle nutrition strategies
Maintain flexibility and enjoyment with food
Protect your mental health and relationship with eating

This support is especially important for individuals with a history of dieting, disordered eating, or eating disorders.

A Weight-Inclusive, Intuitive Eating Lens on GLP-1s

A weight-inclusive approach recognizes that health is not determined by body size alone. When working with GLP-1s, this lens prioritizes:

Internal cues over external rules
Gentle nutrition instead of restriction
Body respect and consent
Long-term sustainability rather than short-term outcomes

Intuitive eating doesn’t mean ignoring medical care, it means integrating it without losing connection to your body.

Supporting Nutrition While Appetite Is Reduced

When appetite is suppressed, intentional nourishment becomes more important, not less. Nutrition counseling may focus on:

Eating consistently, even when hunger cues are muted
Prioritizing protein, carbohydrates, fats, and micronutrients
Choosing foods that are easier to tolerate during nausea or early fullness
Hydration and digestion support

These strategies help protect your metabolism, energy levels, and overall health.

GLP-1s and Eating Disorder Risk

For individuals with a history of eating disorders or chronic dieting, GLP-1s can increase vulnerability to relapse by reinforcing restriction and disconnection from hunger cues.

This doesn’t mean support isn’t possible, but it does mean care should be thoughtful, collaborative, and trauma-informed. Nutrition counseling provides a safeguard by monitoring physical and emotional health together.

There Is No One “Right” Choice

Choosing whether or not to use a GLP-1 medication is deeply personal. Our role is not to push or discourage, but to ensure that if medications are part of your care, they’re supported in a way that honors your health, autonomy, and values.

Get Support That Looks at the Whole You

At Mind Belly Soul Nutrition, our registered dietitians provide weight-inclusive, HAES-aligned nutrition counseling for individuals navigating GLP-1 medications, disordered eating, and complex relationships with food.

If you’re using, or considering, a GLP-1 and want support that prioritizes nourishment and body trust, schedule a free consultation call today.

Georgia Allard