What sort of diet should I be on while taking injectable semaglutide?

Optimizing Your Health While Using GLP-1 Medications

GLP-1 medications can be an effective tool for weight management and metabolic health, but combining them with healthy lifestyle habits helps maximize results.

Prioritize Nutrient-Dense Meals

If you struggle to get enough protein, consider protein-rich foods or shakes (for example, yogurt, cottage cheese, protein powders or ready-to-drink shakes). In general, many people on GLP-1 medications benefit from getting about 1.0 to 1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of their target body weight per day, but your exact needs depend on your age, activity level and medical conditions. People with kidney or other health problems may need a different amount, so check with your healthcare provider or a dietitian before making big changes to your protein intake.

Stay Hydrated and Support Digestion

1. GLP-1 medications can slow digestion, which may cause discomfort or constipation.
2. Promote digestive health by:
1. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day
2. Including fiber-rich foods like leafy greens, whole grains, and legumes
   
3. Many people also find it helpful to limit very high-fat, fried, greasy or heavily processed foods, and to go easy on alcohol and very sugary drinks, because these can worsen nausea, reflux or diarrhea while you are on a GLP-1 medication.
   

Hydration + fiber help prevent constipation and enhance comfort

Support Your Health with Lifestyle Habits

1. Regular physical activity also supports mental health. Many studies show that exercise can help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, and it is often recommended alongside therapy or medication as part of a complete treatment plan.
2. Aim for some movement every day, even if it is just a 20-minute walk. Over time, most adults are encouraged to work toward at least 150 minutes per week of moderate physical activity, plus strength training, to support weight management and overall health.
   

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not provide medical or nutrition advice for any specific person. Always talk with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet, exercise routine or medications.

Compounded versions of semaglutide are not FDA-approved. The FDA has not evaluated compounded semaglutide for safety, effectiveness, or quality. 

• Related Articles

• How much weight will I lose with injectable Semaglutide?

  GLP-1 Medications and Weight Loss People taking GLP-1 medications like semaglutide often experience significant weight loss when these medicines are combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Large clinical trials of ...

• What sort of diet should I be on while taking sublingual semaglutide?

  People may have different dietary needs while using compounded sublingual semaglutide. Your healthcare provider can help you determine the best nutrition plan for your individual health goals and overall well-being. The general guidance below focuses ...

• What sort of diet should I be on while taking injectable tirzepatide?

  People taking tirzepatide often have questions about how to support their overall health with nutrition and lifestyle habits. While there is no specific required diet, many people find that certain general approaches help them feel their best. These ...

• What Is Injectable Semaglutide & How Does It Work?

  About Semaglutide Semaglutide is a prescription medication that has been FDA-approved in specific formulations to treat type 2 diabetes and, separately, for chronic weight management (under brand names like Ozempic® & Wegovy®). These FDA-approved ...

• What dosage of injectable Semaglutide will I be taking?

  Injectable Semaglutide: How to Take Your Medication Frequency: Taken once weekly, on the same day each week, at any time of day, with or without food. Doctor Guidance: Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose for your individual needs. Always ...