Counseling Patients on Nutrition and Implementation of a Balanced Diet Supplementing GLP-1

1 in 8 adults use glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) antagonist medications, according to the results of a new study from the Kaiser Family Foundation. Of those who received GLP-1, 6% were currently using the drug.^one With such widespread use, meeting nutritional needs and a balanced diet are vital for patients using GLP-1 drugs.

Although GLP-1 drugs are approved for the treatment of diabetes and have cardiovascular-related indications, weight loss has been a topic of debate; Some of these medications even have weight loss indications when combined with diet and exercise. There is also significant pressure from medical groups such as the American Heart Association (AHA) to recognize obesity as a chronic medical condition. In a recent scientific statement, the AHA addressed gaps in care for patients with obesity, including how to talk to patients who may be hesitant to talk to their doctors or other healthcare professionals about their weight.³

When combined with lifestyle changes, GLP-1 medication may help reduce excess weight, according to the American Medical Association. GLP-1 medications are very effective in losing weight, but a quality diet is equally important.⁴

GLP-1 drugs can cause significant changes in appetite by increasing the feeling of fullness. Additionally, consuming foods high in fat or sugar may cause gastrointestinal upset in patients taking GLP-1 medications.

Patients taking these medications should be advised to eat smaller meals more frequently and prioritize protein and whole foods, including lean proteins, vegetables, whole grains, fruits, and healthy fats. Portion control is also very important, and there are techniques to provide adequate amounts of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates at each meal without counting calories or calculating macronutrients. Finally, getting enough fiber and staying hydrated is important for a healthy diet.⁵

Pharmacists can take steps to provide information and counseling to patients who begin treatment with GLP-1 drugs. Additionally, some companies are taking special steps to meet the need for nutritional information and options among a growing patient population.

For example, Nestlé announced a new food line called “Vital Pursuit” designed to accompany GLP-1 medications. “The products are rich in protein, a good source of fiber, contain essential nutrients, and are portioned based on the appetite of the weight-loss drug user,” according to a news release.⁶

“We know that every consumer on their health journey has personalized needs and considerations, and having options to support those needs will continue to play an important role,” Tom Moe, president of Nestlé U.S. Food Division, said in the news release. “We have been expanding the options in our meal portfolio to appeal to consumer eating habits over the past several years, and as the market evolves we will continue to expand Vital Pursuit with more product formats for our consumers.”⁶

The new series aims to offer a balanced diet for individuals who want to lose weight and is the company’s first food brand for GLP-1 users. Products include a variety of frozen options, including whole grain bowls, protein pasta, melted sandwiches, and pizza. The company plans to make the product affordable, with a suggested retail price of $4.99 and lower. Additionally, the products focus on portion sizes and nutrients such as protein, vitamin A, potassium, calcium and iron. Air fryer options will also be coming, as well as gluten-free options.⁶

Vital Pursuit is expected to be available in the fourth quarter of 2024.⁶

References

1. Gallagher A. Research: 1 in 8 Adults Have Used GLP-1 Medication, 6% Currently Do. Pharmacy Times. May 14, 2024. Accessed May 22, 2024. https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/survey-1-in-8-adults-have-utilized-a-glp-1-medication-6-currently-are

2. There are significant gaps between the science of obesity and the care patients receive. Newsletter. American heart association. May 20, 2024. Access date: May 22, 2024. https://newsroom.heart.org/news/significant-gaps-between-science-of-obesity-and-the-care-patients-receive

3. JP Morgan. Increased appetite for obesity drugs. November 29, 2023. Access date: May 22, 2024. https://www.jpmorgan.com/insights/global-research/current-events/obesity-drugs

4. Lubell J. In the age of GLP-1 agonists, food choices still matter for health. American Medical Association. February 6, 2024. Access date: May 22, 2024. https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/age-glp-1-agonists-food-choices-still-matter-health

5. Nutrition while taking GLP-1 drugs for weight loss. Sentara. April 10, 2024. Access date: May 22, 2024. https://www.sentara.com/healthwellness/articles/nutrition-and-weight-loss-medication#:~:text=Eat%20protein%20first%2C%20non% 2Dstarchy,%20%20GLP%2D1%20while taking medication

6. Nestlé Introduces Vital Pursuit Brand to Support GLP-1 Users and Consumers Focused on Weight Management. Press release. Nestlé. May 21, 2024. Access date: May 22, 2024. https://nestleusa.com/media/pressreleases/vital-pursuit-glp-1-weight-management