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How-to

What to eat while taking a GLP-1 medication

By the TreatmentMD editorial team

Updated 7 min read

A smiling woman in a taupe hijab and a white top

Key takeaways

  • There's no special GLP-1 diet. Meals built around protein, vegetables, fruit and whole grains do the job.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources
  • With a smaller appetite, eat your protein first and keep meals small and regular, even when you're not very hungry.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sourcesBMJ Open Diabetes Research & CareSourceAmerican Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee for Obesity. Pharmacologic treatment of obesity in adults: Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care. 2026;13(Suppl 1):e005729.Open the source All sources
  • Sip fluids through the day, go easy on greasy food and alcohol, and lean on your clinician for a plan that suits you.U.S. Food and Drug AdministrationSourceFDA prescribing information for Wegovy® (injection and tablets), Zepbound® and Foundayo™: Indications and Usage; Dosage and Administration; Clinical Pharmacology; Medication Guides.All sourcesThe American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources

By the TreatmentMD editorial team

One of the first things people notice on a GLP-1 is how much less they want to eat. The constant chatter about food, sometimes called food noise, often goes quiet, and a smaller plate feels like plenty.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources

So what should go on that plate? The good news is there's no special diet to follow. A few simple habits help you get what your body needs and feel your best along the way.

01The short answer

What should you eat on a GLP-1?

Pretty much what's good for anyone, just less of it. Nutrition and obesity experts suggest building meals around protein, vegetables, fruit, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources

There's no official GLP-1 diet to follow. The medicines are approved for use alongside a lower-calorie diet and more activity, and your smaller appetite helps with the first part.U.S. Food and Drug AdministrationSourceFDA prescribing information for Wegovy® (injection and tablets), Zepbound® and Foundayo™: Indications and Usage; Dosage and Administration; Clinical Pharmacology; Medication Guides.All sources

With less room on your plate, the focus shifts from how much you eat to what you eat. Each bite counts for a little more.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources

Leaning on minimally processed foods, and fewer sugary or starchy packaged ones, may also help you get the most from your medicine.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources

And there's no list of banned foods. Experts suggest flexibility and the occasional treat in a sensible portion, rather than strict rules.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources The best way to eat is one you can keep up, built around foods you enjoy.BMJ Open Diabetes Research & CareSourceAmerican Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee for Obesity. Pharmacologic treatment of obesity in adults: Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care. 2026;13(Suppl 1):e005729.Open the source All sources

02Your plate

How do you build a meal on a GLP-1?

A simple way to start is protein first, then plenty of vegetables, with whole grains, fruit and healthy fats alongside. Here's what to lean on:The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sourcesU.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of AgricultureSourceU.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2030. January 2026.Open the source All sources

  1. Protein

    Fish, chicken, eggs, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, tofu, beans and lentils.

  2. Vegetables

    Leafy greens, broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, peas and squash. Fresh, frozen or canned all count.U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of AgricultureSourceU.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2030. January 2026.Open the source All sources

  3. Fruit

    Berries, apples, oranges, bananas and grapes, whole rather than as juice.U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of AgricultureSourceU.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2030. January 2026.Open the source All sources

  4. Whole grains

    Oats, quinoa, brown rice, and whole-grain bread or pasta. Good news for carb lovers: these are the ones to keep.

  5. Healthy fats

    Nuts, seeds, avocado and olive oil. A little goes a long way.

03Protein

Why does protein matter so much?

When you're eating less, protein helps you hold on to muscle while you lose weight.BMJ Open Diabetes Research & CareSourceAmerican Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee for Obesity. Pharmacologic treatment of obesity in adults: Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care. 2026;13(Suppl 1):e005729.Open the source All sources

Most of the weight you lose on a GLP-1 is fat, but some is lean mass, which includes muscle. That's true of any weight loss.U.S. Food and Drug AdministrationSourceFDA prescribing information for Wegovy® (injection and tablets), Zepbound® and Foundayo™: Indications and Usage; Dosage and Administration; Clinical Pharmacology; Medication Guides.All sourcesBMJ Open Diabetes Research & CareSourceAmerican Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee for Obesity. Pharmacologic treatment of obesity in adults: Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care. 2026;13(Suppl 1):e005729.Open the source All sources

A handy trick: eat your protein first, before you start to feel full.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sourcesCleveland ClinicSourceCleveland Clinic. Taking GLP-1s? Make sure you exercise. May 5, 2026.Open the source All sources And try to include some at every meal, which the new U.S. Dietary Guidelines suggest for everyone.U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of AgricultureSourceU.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2030. January 2026.Open the source All sources

Protein that doesn't take up much room is your friend here, like fish, eggs, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or nuts and nut butters.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources On days you can't manage much, a protein shake or bar can fill the gap.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources

How much you need depends on you, so your clinician or a dietitian can help you find the right amount.BMJ Open Diabetes Research & CareSourceAmerican Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee for Obesity. Pharmacologic treatment of obesity in adults: Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care. 2026;13(Suppl 1):e005729.Open the source All sources

And give your muscles a reason to stay. Strength training, even with bands or your own body weight, works hand in hand with protein.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sourcesBMJ Open Diabetes Research & CareSourceAmerican Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee for Obesity. Pharmacologic treatment of obesity in adults: Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care. 2026;13(Suppl 1):e005729.Open the source All sources

04Fluids and fiber

How do you stay hydrated and keep things moving?

Drinking enough is one of the most helpful habits on a GLP-1, especially if your stomach is unsettled.U.S. Food and Drug AdministrationSourceFDA prescribing information for Wegovy® (injection and tablets), Zepbound® and Foundayo™: Indications and Usage; Dosage and Administration; Clinical Pharmacology; Medication Guides.All sources

If water at meals fills you up too fast, sip through the day and between meals instead.Cleveland ClinicSourceCleveland Clinic. How to manage the digestive side effects of GLP-1 medications. September 9, 2026.Open the source All sources Water and other unsweetened drinks are your best bets.U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of AgricultureSourceU.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2030. January 2026.Open the source All sources Foods with lots of water, like soup, help too.Novo NordiskSourceNovo Nordisk. Wegovy®: side effects, and tips for managing nausea. Checked October 7, 2026.Open the source All sources

Fizzy drinks can upset some people's stomachs or make them burp more, so see how they sit with you.Cleveland ClinicSourceCleveland Clinic. How to keep weight off with GLP-1s. May 5, 2026.Open the source All sourcesInspira HealthSourceInspira Health. GLP-1s and burping: what you should know. November 20, 2025.Open the source All sources And if you have diarrhea, a drink with electrolytes helps you top up.Cleveland ClinicSourceCleveland Clinic. How to manage the digestive side effects of GLP-1 medications. September 9, 2026.Open the source All sources

Fiber helps keep things moving, which matters because constipation is common when you're losing weight.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources

Add it gradually from fruit, vegetables, beans, whole grains and dried fruit like prunes, so your stomach can keep up.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources

For your first few days, it's fine to go lighter on fiber and fatty foods while your stomach settles in.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources

05How to eat

Does how you eat matter too?

A smiling woman with curly hair resting her hands on her stomach

It really does. These habits help meals sit well, wherever you're eating:

  1. Start with a small breakfast

    Queasiness often shows up in the morning or after a long gap, so a little something early helps.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources

  2. Eat small meals at regular times

    They're easier on your stomach than a big one, and stop you getting overly hungry.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sourcesBMJ Open Diabetes Research & CareSourceAmerican Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee for Obesity. Pharmacologic treatment of obesity in adults: Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care. 2026;13(Suppl 1):e005729.Open the source All sources

  3. Slow down

    Take your time, and put your fork down between bites.Novo NordiskSourceNovo Nordisk. Wegovy®: side effects, and tips for managing nausea. Checked October 7, 2026.Open the source All sources

  4. Stop when you're comfortably full

    Your fullness signal arrives sooner than it used to. Overdo it, and you'll likely just feel stuffed or queasy for a while.Eli Lilly and CompanySourceLilly. Zepbound®: side effects, and tips for managing them. Checked October 7, 2026.Open the source All sourcesCleveland ClinicSourceCleveland Clinic. How to keep weight off with GLP-1s. May 5, 2026.Open the source All sources

  5. Finish a couple of hours before bed

    It can help with heartburn and that too-full feeling at night.BMJ Open Diabetes Research & CareSourceAmerican Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee for Obesity. Pharmacologic treatment of obesity in adults: Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care. 2026;13(Suppl 1):e005729.Open the source All sources

  6. Eating out? Plan ahead

    Peek at the menu first, lead with protein, and pick grilled or baked over fried or creamy.HealthlineSourceHealthline. How to dine out when taking GLP-1s. May 31, 2026.Open the source All sources

06Low appetite

What if you're barely hungry?

If food just doesn't appeal some days, you're not alone. It's common, especially in the first weeks and after a dose increase.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources

Even so, your body still needs fuel, so try to eat a little, often.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sourcesBMJ Open Diabetes Research & CareSourceAmerican Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee for Obesity. Pharmacologic treatment of obesity in adults: Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care. 2026;13(Suppl 1):e005729.Open the source All sources If you tend to forget, set a reminder.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources

Small, protein-rich options are often easiest: Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, eggs, a smoothie or a bowl of soup.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources

If eating enough stays hard, tell your clinician. They can adjust your plan, or your dose.BMJ Open Diabetes Research & CareSourceAmerican Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee for Obesity. Pharmacologic treatment of obesity in adults: Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care. 2026;13(Suppl 1):e005729.Open the source All sources

07Go easy on

Which foods might not sit as well?

No food is off-limits. But a few tend to sit less well on a GLP-1, or crowd out what your body needs:Academy of Nutrition and DieteticsSourceAcademy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Navigating weight loss with obesity medications. March 19, 2026.Open the source All sources

  1. Greasy or fried food

    Rich, fatty meals are harder to digest and can leave you feeling queasy.Academy of Nutrition and DieteticsSourceAcademy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Navigating weight loss with obesity medications. March 19, 2026.Open the source All sourcesNovo NordiskSourceNovo Nordisk. Wegovy®: side effects, and tips for managing nausea. Checked October 7, 2026.Open the source All sources

  2. Big portions

    Large meals are more likely to upset your stomach.Cleveland ClinicSourceCleveland Clinic. How to keep weight off with GLP-1s. May 5, 2026.Open the source All sources

  3. Sugary drinks and alcohol

    Sweet drinks take up precious room without much nutrition, and alcohol can make nausea and heartburn worse.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources

Spicy food bothers some people and not others, so let your stomach be the judge.Academy of Nutrition and DieteticsSourceAcademy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Navigating weight loss with obesity medications. March 19, 2026.Open the source All sources

And treats still fit. A small portion of something you love is part of a healthy pattern, not a slip.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources

If your stomach's unsettled, our side effects article has more habits that help.

08A day of eating

What might a day look like?

Here's one way a day could look, built from foods nutrition experts suggest. Your portions will likely be smaller than you're used to, and that's fine.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources

MealIdeas
BreakfastGreek yogurt with berries and a few nuts, or eggs with whole-grain toast
LunchA bowl of chicken, beans or fish with leafy greens and a little brown rice or quinoa
SnackCottage cheese with fruit, hummus with carrots, or a small handful of almonds
DinnerSalmon or tofu with roasted vegetables and a small serving of whole-grain pasta
DrinksWater through the day, and ginger or peppermint tea if your stomach's unsettled
Ideas, not rules. Swap in the foods you enjoy.

A few staples make it easier: Greek yogurt, eggs, canned beans and fish, frozen vegetables and fruit, oats, nuts and soup.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sourcesU.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of AgricultureSourceU.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2030. January 2026.Open the source All sources

Want a hand with it? A registered dietitian can build a plan around foods you like.BMJ Open Diabetes Research & CareSourceAmerican Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee for Obesity. Pharmacologic treatment of obesity in adults: Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care. 2026;13(Suppl 1):e005729.Open the source All sources Several of the programs we rank include coaching too, and each of our reviews says what's included.

Frequently asked questions.

Can any food stop my GLP-1 from working?

No. You can take the weekly shots and Foundayo™ with or without food, and their labels don't list any food to avoid.U.S. Food and Drug AdministrationSourceFDA prescribing information for Wegovy® (injection and tablets), Zepbound® and Foundayo™: Indications and Usage; Dosage and Administration; Clinical Pharmacology; Medication Guides.All sources

The Wegovy® pill is the one with a food rule.

Take it first thing with up to 4 ounces of water, then wait at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking, coffee included.U.S. Food and Drug AdministrationSourceFDA prescribing information for Wegovy® (injection and tablets), Zepbound® and Foundayo™: Indications and Usage; Dosage and Administration; Clinical Pharmacology; Medication Guides.All sources

Can I drink alcohol on a GLP-1?

Going easy is best, especially early on.

Alcohol can make nausea and heartburn worse, and some people find they want less of it anyway.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sourcesAcademy of Nutrition and DieteticsSourceAcademy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Navigating weight loss with obesity medications. March 19, 2026.Open the source All sources

Do I need a multivitamin?

Not always, but it can help, especially if you're eating very little.

Experts suggest considering one, or specific nutrients like vitamin D, calcium or B12, so ask your clinician what suits you.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sourcesBMJ Open Diabetes Research & CareSourceAmerican Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee for Obesity. Pharmacologic treatment of obesity in adults: Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care. 2026;13(Suppl 1):e005729.Open the source All sources

Are "GLP-1 friendly" foods worth buying?

They can be handy, but you don't need them.

"GLP-1 friendly" has no official definition, so check the label for protein and fiber, as you would with any food.Bloomberg LawSourceBloomberg Law. Unverified GLP-1-related claims flood food, supplement markets. July 13, 2026.Open the source All sources

What should I eat on shot day?

Nothing special: the shots work with or without food.U.S. Food and Drug AdministrationSourceFDA prescribing information for Wegovy® (injection and tablets), Zepbound® and Foundayo™: Indications and Usage; Dosage and Administration; Clinical Pharmacology; Medication Guides.All sources

Some people feel a little queasy in the first day or two after a dose, so lighter, lower-fat meals then can help.Cleveland ClinicSourceCleveland Clinic. How to keep weight off with GLP-1s. May 5, 2026.Open the source All sourcesAcademy of Nutrition and DieteticsSourceAcademy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Navigating weight loss with obesity medications. March 19, 2026.Open the source All sources

Can I do keto or intermittent fasting?

Check with your clinician first.

Very strict diets make it harder to get enough protein and nutrients, and experts suggest eating at regular times, even if you fast.The American Journal of Clinical NutritionSourceMozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367.Open the source All sources

The bottom line

There's no special diet on a GLP-1.

Build small, regular meals around protein, vegetables, fruit and whole grains, and sip fluids through the day.

When you're ready, compare programs on our ranking to find one with the support you want.

By the TreatmentMD editorial team

Medical disclaimerThis content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any weight-loss program or medication. Individual results may vary.

Sources13 sources, and product and safety information
  1. 1Mozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025;122(1):344-367. doi.org
  2. 2American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee for Obesity. Pharmacologic treatment of obesity in adults: Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care. 2026;13(Suppl 1):e005729. doi.org
  3. 3FDA prescribing information for Wegovy® (injection and tablets), Zepbound® and Foundayo™: Indications and Usage; Dosage and Administration; Clinical Pharmacology; Medication Guides.
  4. 4U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2030. January 2026. realfood.gov
  5. 5Cleveland Clinic. Taking GLP-1s? Make sure you exercise. May 5, 2026. clevelandclinic.org
  6. 6Cleveland Clinic. How to manage the digestive side effects of GLP-1 medications. September 9, 2026. clevelandclinic.org
  7. 7Novo Nordisk. Wegovy®: side effects, and tips for managing nausea. Checked October 7, 2026. wegovy.com
  8. 8Cleveland Clinic. How to keep weight off with GLP-1s. May 5, 2026. clevelandclinic.org
  9. 9Inspira Health. GLP-1s and burping: what you should know. November 20, 2025. inspirahealthnetwork.org
  10. 10Lilly. Zepbound®: side effects, and tips for managing them. Checked October 7, 2026. lilly.com
  11. 11Healthline. How to dine out when taking GLP-1s. May 31, 2026. healthline.com
  12. 12Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Navigating weight loss with obesity medications. March 19, 2026. eatright.org
  13. 13Bloomberg Law. Unverified GLP-1-related claims flood food, supplement markets. July 13, 2026. bloomberglaw.com

Product information

  • Zepbound® (tirzepatide) is a prescription-only injectable medication FDA-approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity, or adults with overweight who have at least one weight-related medical condition. It is also approved for the treatment of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity, and should be used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
  • Ozempic® (semaglutide) is a prescription-only injectable medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It is not FDA-approved for weight loss; however, weight reduction has been observed in some individuals with type 2 diabetes using the medication.
  • Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) is a prescription-only injectable medication FDA-approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It is not FDA-approved for weight loss; however, weight reduction has been observed in some individuals using the medication.
  • Wegovy® (semaglutide) is a prescription-only injectable medication FDA-approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity, or adults with at least one weight-related medical condition, when used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
  • All medications require a medical evaluation and prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Individual results may vary.

Important safety information

  • Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide are prepared by state-licensed pharmacies and are not FDA approved. The FDA does not review their safety, effectiveness or quality, and clinical trial results for brand-name drugs do not carry over to them.
  • Semaglutide and tirzepatide carry a boxed warning for a risk of thyroid C-cell tumors, based on animal studies, and are not for anyone with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or MEN2, or who is pregnant. Other warnings include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and a higher risk of low blood sugar when combined with insulin or a sulfonylurea. The most common side effects are digestive, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation.
  • This is a high-level summary, not a complete list. A licensed clinician will review your health history to decide whether a GLP-1 medication is right for you.

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