As a Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in weight loss with GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide, I thought I’d share my best tips to help beginners start their weight loss journey effectively.

1. Communicate with Your Provider:

Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider are crucial! If you encounter any issues or have questions, inform your provider immediately. They might need to adjust your dose, prescribe additional medications like Zofran for nausea, or order lab tests. Communication and regular check-ins ensure your weight loss journey goes smoothly.

2. Adopt the Right Mindset:

GLP-1 medications are not a quick fix. They are designed for steady, sustainable weight loss. Aim for a gradual weight loss of no more than 2 pounds per week. Use this time when things are a bit easier to develop healthy habits and new eating patterns. Remember, weight loss is a marathon, not a sprint.

3. Start Low and Go Slow:

I start my patients with a very low dose for two weeks at a minimum, which allows their bodies time to gradually adjust to the medication. This helps minimize side effects. Then I gradually increase the dose only until their appetite is reduced but not eliminated. It's important to maintain a healthy desire to eat.

4. Prepare for Potential Side Effects:

Nausea is a common initial side effect. Sublingual vitamin B12 drops can help, and sometimes eating a couple of crackers can settle your stomach. Fatigue and headaches are also common initial side effects. Stay hydrated and consider Tylenol for headaches. Constipation is another common side effect since GLP-1 medications slow digestion. I typically recommend stool softeners, Miralax, and Mag07 rather than fiber supplements, which can sometimes worsen constipation caused by GLP-1 medications.

5. Source Your Medication Carefully:

Ensure your medication comes from FDA-approved compounding pharmacies. These facilities are inspected by the FDA routinely to maintain high-quality standards. 

6. Timing of Injections:

For most patients, the effects of the weekly dose peak 1-2 days after injection. Plan your injection timing based on when you want the medication to have the most impact on your appetite. For example, if you tend to overeat on weekends, consider taking your injection on Thursdays. 

7. Track Your Progress:

Keep a journal to track your water intake, bowel movements, side effects, medication doses, and other relevant details. This tracking can help you and your provider make necessary adjustments. Here is a journal I created just for this purpose you can order from Amazon HERE.

8. Implement Lifestyle Changes:

Don't rely solely on the medication! I typically recommend that my patients implement intermittent fasting and prioritize protein as the foundation of their dietary changes. These changes will enhance the effectiveness of your treatment and lead to long-term results.

9. Garner Support:

Having a support system is invaluable. Whether it's a Facebook group, a friend, or a spouse, support can help you stay motivated and on track.

10. Avoid Sugar:

High-sugar foods and drinks will counteract the effects of your injections. Avoid sugar, especially regular sodas, juice, and alcohol to ensure the best results from your treatment.

Conclusion

Embarking on a weight loss journey with GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide can be transformative when approached with the right strategies. By maintaining open communication with your provider, setting realistic expectations, and gradually increasing your dose, you can minimize side effects and optimize results. Remember to track your progress, implement healthy lifestyle changes, and seek support from others. Avoiding high-sugar foods and drinks will also enhance your efforts. With patience and perseverance, these tips can help you achieve sustainable weight loss and improve your overall health! Happy weight loss journey!