8 Things You Should Never Do While on GLP-1 Meds

Are you taking—or considering taking—drugs to help with weight loss or type 2 diabetes? GLP-1 meds like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Monjaro can be very expensive, with or without a prescription. The last thing you want to do is continue behaviors or habits that may stop the meds from doing what they’re supposed to, costing you time, money, and health. Here are key things never to do while on GLP-1 meds.

Not Changing Unhealthy Lifestyle

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Not changing your lifestyle may undermine the GLP-1 meds’ efficacy. “You can likely lose weight on semaglutide medications without changing your diet and activity behaviors, but these lifestyle changes will make the treatment more effective,” Richard Siegel, MD, tells the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. “Also, we don’t know if weight loss will have the same health benefits if one does not change their behaviors.”

Big Portions

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One of the ways GLP-1 meds work is to keep food in the stomach for longer—so be mindful of portions. “Understanding that overall portions are smaller on these medications, we want to optimize nutritional intake and consume the ‘best’ calories available,” obesity medicine physician Dr. Christopher McGowan tells TODAY. “The focus should be on lean protein, healthy fruits and vegetables, adequate fiber, and adequate fluid intake.”

RELATED:What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Taking Ozempic

No Exercise

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Losing weight quickly by doing exercise may prevent you from losing lean muscle mass. Incorporate regular exercise into your routine, walk as much as possible, and try strength training to build muscle.

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High Carb, High Fat Foods

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Be careful of too many high-carb, high-fat foods while taking GLP-1 meds. “I’ve seen an almost dumping syndrome-like response in people taking GLP-1s when they eat simple carbohydrates and high-fat foods,” Dr. Shauna Levy, a specialist in obesity medicine and medical director of the Tulane Bariatric and Weight Loss Center in New Orleans, tells TODAY.

Be Monitored By an Expert

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Always talk to a medical professional before taking GLP-1 meds—especially with the risk of serious side effects. “Typically, I prescribe Ozempic for diabetes and have more often prescribed Wegovy for weight loss,” endocrinologist Alyssa Dominguez, MD, tells Keck Medicine. “I have used Ozempic, sometimes, off-label for weight loss, though getting insurance approval for that can be challenging.”

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Too Much Sugar

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It’s not advisable to have lots of sugar while taking GLP-1 meds, Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, warns. “If you are taking medication to lower your sugar levels, it is advisable to avoid excess sugar consumption,” Dr. Dina Peralta-Reich, MD, FAAP, FOMA, tells Parade. “Failure to watch what you eat and keep your sugar levels elevated may prevent you from seeing the intended results of the medication.”

Drinking Too Much Alcohol

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Watch your alcohol intake while taking GLP-1 meds—it may undermine your weight loss. “One, it’s just empty calories. Two, it tends to make people make decisions that they otherwise might not make,” says Dr. Levy. “It could increase hunger, and the whole point of GLP-1s, or at least one of the points, is to decrease hunger. So it sort of negates their purpose.”

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No Long-Term Goals

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Don’t treat GLP-1 meds like a quick fix—taking them should be part of a long-term strategy to overhaul your health and your weight. “It’s important to note that if you start taking either of these drugs for weight loss, your body may get used to it, establishing a new normal,” says UC Davis Health. This can cause your weight to plateau. Research has shown that if you stop taking Ozempic (or Wegovy), it's likely that you will gain back the weight you lost.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Are you considering going on Ozempic or another GLP-1 drug in order to lose weight? Before you meet with your doctor, there are several things you should think about — including what to tell them about your health history and future plans. Triple-board-certified plastic surgeon Leo Lapuerta, MD, The Plastic Surgery Institute of Southeast Texas, reveals 10 critical things you need to tell your MD before starting Ozempic for weight loss.

A Personal or Family History of MEN2

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There are several health conditions that you need to disclose to your doctor, starting with a personal or family history of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2 (MEN2), Dr. Lapuerta explains. “MEN2 syndrome usually causes thyroid gland, parathyroid gland, or adrenal gland tumors. The tumors may be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer),” explains the National Cancer Institute.

RELATED: 20 Things You Need to Know About Ozempic and Weight Loss

A Personal or Family History of Thyroid Tumors

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Another health condition that needs to be disclosed? “Personal or family history of Thyroid tumors, particularly medullary thyroid cancer or C-Cell tumors of the thyroid,” says Dr. Lapuerta.

You or Your Partner May Be Pregnant

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Is there any chance that you or your spouse is expecting? Lapuerta stresses the importance of revealing if there is any possibility of pregnancy in patients.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

You Are or Are Planning to Breastfeed

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Also, new moms need to figure out their nursing plans. “If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed,” you need to tell your MD, says Dr. Lapuerta.

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You Are On Blood Sugar Medication

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Any medication should be disclosed to your MD. However, “if you take any medications which lower your blood sugar,” they really need to know.

You Are Taking Other GLP-1 or Diabetes Medication

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Are you already taking weight loss or diabetes medications? “If you use any other GLP-1 or diabetic medication,” Lapuerta stresses the importance of revealing that to your doctor.

RELATED: 9 Key Differences Between Ozempic and Other GLP-1 Meds for Weight Loss

You Have Negatively Reacted to GLP-1s in the Past

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Have you already taken a weight loss drug, and it didn’t go well? “Any history of sensitivity or a negative reaction to any GLP-1 agonist” needs to be disclosed.

History of Pancreatitis

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Another health condition you should be vocal about? History of pancreatitis, says Dr. Lapuerta. Research has found a link between the drugs and increase in the condition.

History of Gallbladder Disease

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You should also discuss any history of gallbladder disease/stones. The drug may increase the risk of gallbladder disease at higher doses or for longer periods of time, according to research.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

History of Renal Insufficiency

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Do you suffer from kidney issues? Any history of renal insufficiency or disease should also be disclosed. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

If you've been considering expensive GLP-1 medications like Ozempic for weight loss, there might be a better way. Dr. Kate Lyzenga-Dean, an integrative medicine expert, has identified natural alternatives that work with your body's systems. Drawing from her decade of clinical experience and personal health transformation, she reveals how these science-backed options could help you achieve sustainable weight loss without costly prescriptions or side effects.

Why Traditional Weight Loss Methods Fail

"About 50% of Americans are currently trying to lose weight – that's over 165 million people," Dr. Lyzenga-Dean reveals in her post. The problem isn't lack of effort. "Science is proving again and again that the old simplistic model of calorie in, calorie out simply does not work for most women, especially as we age." Instead, she explains successful weight loss depends on hormone balance, including GLP-1.

How GLP-1 Controls Your Weight

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Understanding GLP-1's role is crucial, explains Dr. Lyzenga-Dean. "Food stimulates the release of GLP-1 from your intestinal cells, which then signals your pancreas to release insulin, improves satiety, and slows digestion." This natural process helps control appetite and blood sugar - without medication.

The Hidden Costs of GLP-1 Medications

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While prescription GLP-1 drugs work, they come with significant drawbacks. "These medications are expensive, rarely covered by insurance, and often need to be taken for life," Dr. Lyzenga-Dean warns. "About 50% of patients experience nausea, and most regain weight within a year of stopping."

Healthy Fats: Your First Line of Defense

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"One of the quickest ways to balance blood sugar is by increasing healthy fat intake," Dr. Lyzenga-Dean shares. "Think guacamole and coconut milk, not processed foods." Research shows that adding just 85 grams of pistachios to meals significantly increases GLP-1 levels in pre-diabetic adults.

RELATED: 20 Things You Need to Know About Ozempic and Weight Loss

Power Up Your Protein

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"Meals with higher amounts of protein stimulate GLP-1 secretion better than those with mostly carbs," Dr. Lyzenga-Dean explains. She recommends eggs and plain yogurt: "Eggs provide unsaturated fats, protein, and choline - all crucial for blood sugar balance."

The Mediterranean Secret

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Research supports this dietary approach: "A Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil for 28 days resulted in significantly higher GLP-1 blood concentrations after each meal," Dr. Lyzenga-Dean reports. This pattern not only supports weight loss but also helps prevent metabolic syndrome.

Natural Compounds That Boost GLP-1

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"Flavonoids from turmeric, cinnamon, rosemary, and green tea act as natural GLP-1 boosters," Dr. Lyzenga-Dean reveals. However, she notes that concentrated supplements often work better than food sources alone for noticeable results.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Berberine: The Natural Alternative

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This plant compound shows remarkable promise. "One meta-analysis showed that just one gram of concentrated berberine significantly lowered cholesterol, BMI, weight, and blood sugar markers," Dr. Lyzenga-Dean reports. Its effectiveness has earned it the nickname "Nature's Ozempic."

Your Gut Bacteria Matter

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"The most impactful way to influence GLP-1 production is by balancing your microbiome," Dr. Lyzenga-Dean emphasizes. She highlights the bacterium Akkermansia: "Studies show it increases thermogenesis - your body's fat-burning process."

Combining Natural Strategies

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Success comes from a comprehensive approach. "The beauty of natural GLP-1 boosters is that you can stack these strategies," Dr. Lyzenga-Dean explains. While results aren't immediate, the benefits are sustainable and side-effect-free.

RELATED:What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Taking Ozempic

Your Path to Sustainable Weight Loss

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"Will these alternatives transform your body overnight? No," Dr. Lyzenga-Dean admits. "But they support healthier weight at the root cause, with minimal side effects." For those seeking lasting results without medication, these natural approaches offer a promising solution. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time

If you're taking Wegovy or Ozempic but not seeing the results you want, these expert tips could be the game-changer you need. "If losing weight was just about finding the perfect diet plan or exercise routine, well, you wouldn't be here," says Dr. Dan, a pharmacist and obesity management expert. Through his popular YouTube channel, he's helped thousands optimize their GLP-1 medication results by combining medical expertise with practical lifestyle strategies. Read on to discover how to make your medication work harder for lasting weight loss success.

Understanding GLP-1 Medications

Let's start with some information about GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. Dr. Sue Decotiis, MD, a weight-loss doctor in NYC, explains, "They enhance the release and action of insulin throughout the body, which helps with fat loss." These medications work in multiple ways: they suppress appetite through receptors in the gut and brain, reset your body's fat-holding rate, and improve insulin function. Dr. Decotiis notes, "When insulin works well, you can burn fat; when it doesn't, you gain weight." Additionally, these medications help regulate hormones that may have changed due to aging or stress.

Your Primal Brain and The Weight Loss Challenge

"We are dealing with an inconsolable child that is your irrational, emotional, and hedonistic primal brain," Dr. Dan reveals. "It fundamentally doesn't want you to lose weight. It doesn't want you to cut out the sweet, and it really doesn't want you to become more active." While medications can help "cage or put up a fence for our primal brain," maintaining good lifestyle practices is crucial to prevent weight regain.

Prioritize Protein to Preserve Muscle Mass

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"Protein is absolutely essential for everybody, but particularly for individuals on GLP-1 medications," says Dr. Dan. He emphasizes aiming for 30 grams of protein at meals and 20 grams at snacks. "Not only does protein help to keep us fuller for longer so we consume less food, but if your body needs carbs or fats, it can take protein and convert it into those two macronutrients." Start early in the day and increase intake gradually. Consider both animal proteins (chicken, beef, eggs) and plant-based options (tofu, lentils).

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Create Consistent Meal Times to Manage Hunger

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"You see, 30,000 years ago, when we were living in caves, we didn't have any predictability in our lives," Dr. Dan explains. "Our primal brain is used to being in that world. But really what it wants is that predictability." By establishing regular meal times, you can better manage hunger and avoid making poor food choices when "hangry." The key is creating a routine your body can rely on. "Aim for being predictable and boring," he advises.

Don't Cut Calories Too Low

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"When you drastically cut your calories, you really piss your primal brain off," Dr. Dan warns. He describes the familiar cycle: "Spending an entire week on a diet starving themselves, white-knuckling it until Friday, and then Friday comes, and we start to ease up." This pattern leads to weekend binges and Monday restarts. Instead of aiming for 1,200 calories, which he says "is already too low," calculate your appropriate intake for sustainable weight loss.

Focus on Fiber for Fullness and Health

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"Fiber is really the unsung hero," Dr. Dan shares. "Not only can it keep us fuller for longer, which when paired with the GLP-1 medications is a great little tool, but fiber through fruits and veggies provide us with a lot of micronutrients." He recommends at least 25 grams daily through foods and supplements like Metamucil. "Plus, fiber can help you manage any side effects from a GI perspective that you might experience with the GLP-1s."

Make Exercise Work for You

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"Exercise is pretty hard to go wrong with," Dr. Dan notes, but many people overcomplicate it. "People tend to get caught up in the all or nothing in that if I can't do something for at least an hour, there's no point in doing it." He particularly advocates for resistance training: "It allows you to have a way to quickly see results beyond what the scale might be telling you." Start small with hand weights during walks or basic strength exercises. "You're not going to magically turn into a bodybuilder overnight. What's going to happen is you're going to get stronger, you're going to feel better, and you're going to feel more confident."

RELATED:What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Taking Ozempic

The Power of Consistency

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"Consistency might be the most important factor because, without consistency, everything else that I've already talked about is pretty much useless," Dr. Dan emphasizes. He compares it to investing: "We're doing a small action every single day consistently until it builds and builds and builds and eventually compounds to give us our big fat outcome." Don't overcomplicate your routine; focus on showing up every day. "The more consistent that you are, the faster the results are going to be."

The Science of Satiety and Success

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Understanding how these medications affect your appetite can help you optimize their benefits. "Weight loss drugs have a tremendous effect on satiety, shutting down appetite so the patient feels full after eating much less food," Dr. Decotiis explains. This biological change makes it easier to follow Dr. Dan's recommendations for consistent meal timing and appropriate calorie intake. However, it's important to note that these changes may be temporary without proper habits in place. Research shows that after discontinuing medication, many people regain significant weight – one study found participants regained two-thirds of their weight loss within a year of stopping the medication.

Mental and Physical Benefits

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The journey with GLP-1 medications often brings benefits beyond weight loss. "When people lose weight, they have better self-esteem, and they feel more confident in their own skin," Dr. Decotiis shares. Some patients experience improved focus and reduced anxiety. These positive changes, combined with the physical improvements from following Dr. Dan's exercise and nutrition recommendations, create a comprehensive approach to better health.

RELATED:20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

Making the Most of Your Medication

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For optimal results, medical guidelines recommend using GLP-1 medications "along with an individualized low-calorie, low-fat diet and exercise program." By following Dr. Dan's strategies while maintaining consistent medication use, you're setting yourself up for the best possible outcomes. Remember, these medications are powerful tools, but they work best when combined with sustainable lifestyle changes that you can maintain long-term. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.