### Effective Dietary Strategies for GLP-1 Drugs If you're taking GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) or tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) for obesity, it's important to focus on your diet. These medications help by slowing digestion and making you feel full longer, but this can sometimes lead to malnutrition and dehydration if you're not careful. Here are some tips to manage your nutrition effectively: 1. **Prioritize Protein**: Protein is crucial because it's not stored in the body. Eat protein-rich foods like eggs, chicken, fatty fish, tofu, edamame, and tempeh first in your meals to ensure you get enough. 2. **Eat a Variety of Vegetables**: Aim for a colorful plate to get different phytonutrients. Include a mix of bell peppers, leafy greens, and other vegetables. Treat starchy vegetables like carbohydrates and eat them in moderation. 3. **Choose Whole Grains and Nuts**: Whole grains, beans, lentils, and nuts are excellent sources of nutrients and plant-based proteins. 4. **Limit Fruits**: Fruits have become sweeter over the years. Stick to two servings per day and choose fruits lower in sugar like berries, kiwi, and grapefruit. 5. **Stay Hydrated**: Drink plenty of water to curb hunger and prevent dehydration. Sometimes thirst is mistaken for hunger. 6. **Avoid High-Fat and Processed Foods**: These can worsen side effects like nausea and vomiting. Opt for healthier fats and avoid deep-fried foods. 7. **Monitor Alcohol and Coffee Intake**: Alcohol can lower blood sugar and worsen side effects. Stick to recommended guidelines. Coffee is fine, but avoid adding too much sugar or cream. 8. **Listen to Your Body**: If you feel nauseous or have gastrointestinal issues, eat bland foods like crackers, toast, rice, and soup. Avoid spicy foods. 9. **Consult a Dietitian**: A registered dietitian can help you create a meal plan tailored to your needs and lifestyle. Remember, these medications are tools to help manage weight, but a balanced diet and regular exercise are also essential for long-term success.