Taking GLP-1 Medications? Here’s What You Should Know for Optimal Health

Did you know that 1 in 8 adults in the U.S. have taken a GLP-1 agonist medication? These drugs, including popular brands like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Trulicity, are commonly prescribed for weight loss and blood sugar management. While they can offer benefits, GLP-1 medications also present challenges that may impact nutrition, gut health, and muscle retention.

At Nourish Integrative Health, we specialize in functional health solutions designed to support metabolic balance, gut health, and sustainable wellness. Whether you’re taking a GLP-1 medication or looking for natural alternatives to improve metabolic function, we’re here to help.

What Are GLP-1 Medications and How Do They Work?

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) mimic the natural GLP-1 hormone, which helps regulate metabolism after eating. These medications primarily support:

✅ Weight Management – By slowing digestion and reducing appetite.
✅ Blood Sugar Control – By increasing insulin secretion and lowering glucagon levels.

While these benefits can assist with weight loss and metabolic health, GLP-1 medications can also create nutrient deficiencies, gut health challenges, and muscle loss. Let’s explore how to counter these effects with Shaklee’s functional nutrition solutions and support from Nourish Integrative Health.

Common GLP-1 Medication Side Effects & How to Address Them

1. Nutrient Deficiencies Due to Appetite Suppression

GLP-1 medications often reduce hunger, leading to lower calorie intake—and potentially fewer essential nutrients. Even on a well-balanced diet, missing key vitamins and minerals can impact energy levels, metabolism, and overall well-being.

How to Fill Nutrient Gaps

✔ Prioritize Nutrient-Dense Meals – Aim for a plate filled with 50% veggies/fruits, 25% lean protein, and 25% whole grains.

✔ Take a High-Quality Multivitamin – Shaklee’s Vita-Lea® is clinically tested to help improve nutrient levels in the blood and support overall wellness.*

✔ Functional Health Coaching – At Nourish Integrative Health, we offer personalized nutritional assessments and lab testing to identify deficiencies and create customized plans for optimal metabolic function and nutrient absorption.

2. Gut Health & Digestive Issues

Because GLP-1 medications slow digestion, they can lead to bloating, constipation, nausea, and changes in gut microbiome balance. A healthy gut is crucial for immune function, nutrient absorption, and metabolic health.

How to Support Your Gut Microbiome

✔ Eat Fiber-Rich Foods – Prebiotic foods like bananas, asparagus, oats, and dandelion greens feed good gut bacteria.

✔ Incorporate Probiotic-Rich Foods – Fermented foods like yogurt, miso, and kombucha help restore gut balance.

✔ Take a Probiotic & Prebiotic Supplement – Shaklee’s Optiflora® is a scientifically formulated synbiotic blend that supports gut health and digestive balance.*

✔ Targeted Functional Gut Testing – At Nourish Integrative Health, we offer gut microbiome and digestive health assessments to help you understand your gut composition and restore balance naturally.

3. Muscle Loss & Slower Metabolism

GLP-1 medications may lead to muscle loss, making it harder to maintain a healthy weight in the long run. Since muscle burns more calories than fat, losing muscle mass can lower metabolism and reduce energy levels.

How to Maintain Lean Muscle

✔ Increase Protein Intake – The National Academy of Medicine recommends 0.4g of protein per pound of body weight for muscle maintenance.

✔ Use a High-Quality Protein Shake – Shaklee Life Shake™ provides 20g of ultra-pure plant-based protein with leucine to support muscle retention, fat burning, and appetite control.†

✔ Stay Active – Strength training helps preserve muscle while supporting bone density and metabolic health.

✔ Comprehensive Metabolic Assessments – At Nourish Integrative Health, we assess hormone balance, muscle retention, and metabolic efficiency to create a personalized functional health plan tailored to your wellness goals.

Get the Right Nutritional Support for Your GLP-1 Journey

Before starting or continuing GLP-1 medications, consult with your healthcare provider. If you’re looking to optimize nutrition, gut health, and metabolic function, Nourish Integrative Health and Shaklee’s functional health supplements can help you thrive.

Shop Shaklee’s GLP-1 Support Products:

🔹 Vita-Lea® Multivitamin – Fills common nutrient gaps*
🔹 Optiflora® Pre & Probiotics – Supports gut health & digestion*
🔹 Life Shake™ – Helps maintain muscle & manage cravings†

💡 Looking for a personalized functional health plan? Schedule a consultation with Nourish Integrative Health to receive expert guidance on metabolic wellness, functional lab testing, and integrative nutrition support.

🌿 Backed by Science. Rooted in Nature. Trusted for Over 65 Years.

Medical Disclaimer & Affiliate Disclosure

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

†As part of the Shaklee 180® Program. Clinical study participants replaced two meals with Life Shake daily, reduced their caloric intake, and followed a 45-minute exercise program twice weekly.

‡Individuals prescribed GLP-1 agonist medications should manage their usage with their prescribing physician. Shaklee or Nourish Integrative Health does not endorse any prescription medication but provides nutritional support for overall wellness.

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