Medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Saxenda have changed the way obesity and type 2 diabetes are managed.
For many people, they can reduce appetite, improve blood glucose control and support clinically meaningful weight loss. While these medications are an effective treatment option for the right person, they work best as part of a broader health approach rather than a stand-alone solution.
How do They Work?
Weight loss medications help regulate appetite and blood glucose (sugar) by:
- Slowing the rate at which food leaves the stomach
- Increasing feelings of fullness after eating
- Reducing hunger between meals
- Supporting blood glucose regulation
- Influencing areas of the brain involved in appetite and food reward
Everyone responds differently to these medications and while they can help regulate appetite, they don’t teach you lifelong nutrition skills. Think of the period while taking medication as an opportunity to establish habits that continue to support health long after you’ve finished taking them. A dietitian can recommend practical strategies to help minimise these effects while ensuring your nutrition needs continue to be met.
It is important to know that the efficacy of these medications to promote weight loss, does not mean your body suddenly needs less nutrients to function well. Your appetite may decrease significantly, but your body’s need for protein, vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and other essential nutrients remains largely unchanged. In fact, because you’re eating less food overall, every meal and snack becomes more important. Over the long term, inadequate nutrition can lead to nutrient deficiencies that may affect:
- energy levels
- bone health
- immune function
- muscle mass
- digestion through issues such as nausea, constipation, reflux, early fullness, food aversion
The goal is to eat well, not just to eat less. Our TBI Health Dietitian can see you from anywhere in New Zealand through our Clinic in the Cloud Telehealth Service. During the online consultation, they can work with you to help you achieve your goals, whilst maintaining optimal health.
