About weight loss pills? We recommend considering supplements for optimal health. This is why.
GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Mounjaro® have gained popularity for their effectiveness in supporting weight loss. These drugs were originally developed for the management of type 2 diabetes and worked by mimicking the effect of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). Simply put, it helps slow digestion, regulate blood sugar levels, and reduces appetite. Together, these results help people reduce their calorie intake and often lead to weight loss.
But here’s what most people don’t notice: The same mechanism that helps you lose pounds can lead to unintended malnutrition.
As a registered dietitian, I asked more and more clients. The simple answer is yes. Vitamins are other important nutrients to incorporate into your weight loss drug treatment plan.
In this article, we explore the science behind why certain defects are more likely to have GLP-1 and nutrition tips for nutrition support while on your weight loss journey with these medications.
Why GLP-1 causes nutritional deficiency
GLP-1 receptor agonists function by slowing down the stomach contents. In other words, food stays in your stomach for a long time, which will keep you full for a long time. This is great for controlling your appetite, but it can also reduce the amount (and frequency) you eat. result? It has fewer calories and, as a result, fewer nutrients.
In a 2025 study, researchers found that GLP-1 users were significantly more likely to be deficient in a variety of essential nutrients compared to non-users. These include:
These defects were found in both gender and in all age groups. Nutrition levels often fell below clinically acceptable thresholds, causing concern about long-term health effects if not addressed.
Five important nutrients to look at while taking Ozempic and other GLP-1 medications
1. Vitamin B12
B12 plays an important role in energy metabolism, erythrocyte production and nervous system function. Unfortunately, it is already a commonly lacking nutrient, especially in people over 50 and fewer meat eaters. B12 levels may be further reduced as GLP-1 reduces stomach acid and slows absorption.
Nutritionist Tips: To improve absorption, look for methylcobalamin-type B12 supplements or consider multivitamins that contain at least 100% of their daily value (DV). Hum’s B12 turbo could be a great addition, depending on your current intake.
2. iron
Iron is essential for oxygen transport and energy. Low iron can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, or dizziness. Many of these symptoms can be easily confused by simply “adjusting” them into new medications or low-calorie diets.
Interestingly, premenopausal people are already at a higher risk of iron deficiency. However, this risk increases with GLP-1, as there is less diet and less red meat intake (which is the largest source of iron).
Nutritionist Tips: If you’re always feeling tired or cold, talk to your healthcare provider about checking your iron levels. If you’re going to add, consider Hum’s basic controls, which provide 100% of the daily value of iron. It also provides other nutrients cited in the study, such as folic acid and magnesium.
3. Vitamin d
Sunshine Vitamins do more than support the bones. It is also important for your strong immune system, mood, and even weight control. However, Vitamin D is one of the most common defects in the US
Nutritionist Tips: Vitamin D3 is the most bioavailable form. A daily dose of 1,000-2,000 IU is recommended, but blood levels (25(OH)D) help to personalize the dose. Hum’s Comes Comes The Sun offers 2000 IU of plant-based vitamin D3 in one handy daily softgel.
4. protein
Although it is not a micronutrient, protein deserves a special cry. The GLP-1 medication helps reduce overall food intake, but does not selectively suppress craving. In fact, you could just eat less everything. This means that you may be short of protein.
Maintaining lean muscle mass that supports metabolism that promotes taste and glycemic balance
Nutritionist Tips: Aim for 20-30 grams of protein per meal. If you find it difficult to hit with just whole foods, adding digestively friendly protein powders can help you meet your goals easily. Hum’s core strength is a great bloat-free option with all amino acids.
5. fiber
GLP-1 drugs slow digestion overall. This can lead to one of the most common side effects people experience: irregularity. And when you eat a generally low diet, your fiber intake is often hit.
Fiber plays an important role in digestive health, blood glucose regulation, and even cholesterol management. It also helps to keep your bowel movements on a regular basis. Naturally, this is a big deal when dealing with your intestines.
Nutritionist tip: Aim for at least 25-30 grams of fiber per day from combinations of fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains. If you haven’t got there consistently, fiber supplements can help you fill the gap. Hum’s Flate Me Fiber is a great option that offers prebiotic fibers that support digestion and regularity without the bloating that some fiber powders can cause.
Conclusions on nutrients in weight loss drugs
GLP-1 drugs can be a powerful tool for weight loss, but they also change the way nutrients are eaten, digested and absorbed. result? You are at a higher risk of deficiency in important vitamins and minerals that keep your body functioning at its best.
The good news is that you don’t need to overhaul your meal overnight. With some targeted additions, including food, supplements, and smart multivitamins, you can go well on your GLP-1 journey.
As always, talk to your healthcare provider or nutritionist before starting a new supplement, especially if you are taking prescription weight loss medications.
