Patient Education Resources

Evidence-based information about GLP-1 medications and sustainable weight loss

🥗

Nutrition on GLP-1 Medications

Protein-First Eating on GLP-1s

GLP-1 medications reduce appetite significantly. Prioritizing protein prevents muscle loss during weight loss.

Key Points:

  • •Aim for 80-100g protein daily minimum
  • •Eat protein first at each meal before other foods
  • •Choose lean sources: chicken, fish, Greek yogurt, eggs, tofu
  • •Consider protein shakes if solid food is difficult
Managing Nausea and Digestive Side Effects

Most patients experience some GI side effects. These strategies help minimize discomfort.

Key Points:

  • •Eat smaller, more frequent meals (5-6 times daily)
  • •Avoid high-fat, greasy, and spicy foods
  • •Stay hydrated with small sips throughout the day
  • •Ginger tea, crackers, and bland foods help with nausea
Foods to Emphasize and Avoid

Your food choices directly impact how you feel on GLP-1 medications.

Key Points:

  • •Emphasize: lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, whole grains
  • •Limit: fried foods, heavy sauces, carbonated drinks, alcohol
  • •Fiber helps: aim for 25-30g daily to prevent constipation
  • •Avoid eating within 3 hours of bedtime to reduce reflux
💪

Exercise During Weight Loss

Resistance Training to Preserve Muscle

Weight loss from GLP-1s includes muscle loss. Strength training helps preserve lean mass.

Key Points:

  • •Train each muscle group 2-3 times per week
  • •Focus on compound movements: squats, pushups, rows
  • •Start with bodyweight or light weights
  • •Progressive overload: gradually increase difficulty
Cardiovascular Exercise Guidelines

Cardio supports heart health and creates additional calorie deficit for weight loss.

Key Points:

  • •Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly
  • •Walking is excellent: start with 10-15 minute walks
  • •Low-impact options: swimming, cycling, elliptical
  • •Consistency matters more than intensity
Energy Management During Weight Loss

Reduced calorie intake means less energy. Adjust exercise expectations accordingly.

Key Points:

  • •Don't push through extreme fatigue
  • •Rest days are essential for recovery
  • •Listen to your body and adjust intensity
  • •Energy typically improves after initial adjustment period
💊

Understanding Your Medication

How Semaglutide and Tirzepatide Work

These medications mimic natural hormones that regulate appetite and blood sugar.

Key Points:

  • •GLP-1 agonists slow gastric emptying and reduce hunger
  • •Tirzepatide also targets GIP receptors for enhanced effect
  • •Average weight loss: 15-20% of body weight over 6-12 months
  • •Effects are dose-dependent and gradual
What to Expect: Timeline and Results

Understanding realistic expectations helps you stay motivated throughout treatment.

Key Points:

  • •Weeks 1-4: Appetite reduction begins, modest weight loss
  • •Months 2-6: Steady weight loss of 1-2 lbs per week
  • •Months 6-12: Continued loss, approaching plateau
  • •Maintenance: Medication typically continued long-term
Injection Technique and Site Rotation

Proper injection technique ensures medication effectiveness and comfort.

Key Points:

  • •Inject subcutaneously in abdomen, thigh, or upper arm
  • •Rotate sites to prevent lipodystrophy
  • •Refrigerate unused pens, room temp for current pen
  • •Use new needle each time, dispose in sharps container
Common Side Effects and Management

Most side effects are GI-related and improve with time and dose adjustment.

Key Points:

  • •Nausea: most common, usually improves after 2-3 weeks
  • •Constipation: increase fiber, water, and physical activity
  • •Diarrhea: avoid fatty foods, consider probiotics
  • •Contact provider if: severe pain, vomiting, vision changes
📊

Clinical Evidence & Research

Evidence-Based Weight Loss Expectations

Clinical trial data shows consistent results across patient populations.

  • •STEP trials (semaglutide): 15-17% average body weight loss
  • •SURMOUNT trials (tirzepatide): 15-22% average body weight loss
  • •Results vary by starting weight, adherence, and lifestyle factors
  • •Weight loss plateaus typically occur around 60-68 weeks
Who Benefits Most from GLP-1 Therapy

These medications work for most patients but some see better results.

  • •BMI ≥30 or BMI ≥27 with weight-related conditions
  • •Patients who can commit to lifestyle modifications
  • •Those without contraindications: pregnancy, pancreatitis history
  • •Best results combine medication with nutrition and exercise
Long-Term Use and Maintenance

GLP-1 medications are typically continued long-term to maintain weight loss.

  • •Weight regain is common after discontinuation (studies show 2/3 of lost weight returns)
  • •Maintenance dosing may be lower than peak dose
  • •Ongoing medical monitoring is essential
  • •Long-term safety data is reassuring for cardiovascular health
⚠️

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace personalized medical advice from your healthcare provider. Always consult with your Jelly Health provider before making changes to your medication, diet, or exercise routine. Individual results may vary. GLP-1 medications are prescription-only and require medical supervision.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Join our telehealth weight loss program with board-certified providers, FDA-approved medications, and ongoing support