The new generation of weight loss injections (GLP-1) have in recent years become one of the most sought-after tools for weight loss and not by chance. They help achieve significant weight loss, reduce the risk of various diseases and change the rules of the game in the field.
But alongside the great success it is important to understand: This is a treatment that significantly affects the body and can cause side effects and requires precise nutritional adjustment. In addition, nutritional support helps maximize the success of the treatment.
Studies show that energy intake among users of the injections decreases by about 24%-39%, and weight loss can reach up to about 22.5%. However, here comes the part that is talked about less about 30%-40% of this loss may actually come from muscle mass, and not only from fat.
In addition, side effects such as nausea, discomfort in the digestive system, constipation or diarrhea are common and they also have a direct effect on what and how it is advisable to eat.
So what are the rules that must not be given up?
Protein – to preserve muscle massDue to the decrease in muscle mass, the recommendation for injection users is to consume 1-1.5 g of protein per day. Proteins should be a central component in every main meal and it is advisable to start the meal with them especially if appetite is low. Main sources of protein: Chicken, meat, fish, eggs and dairy products, tofu and legumes.
Tip: Not less important than nutrition – incorporate strength and resistance training.
Vitamins and minerals – risk of deficienciesThe medications themselves do not impair absorption, but they do cause eating less and sometimes also less variety and the result is a risk of nutritional deficiencies. The components that should be especially noted are vitamin D, vitamin B12, calcium, iron and thiamine (B1). Some of them can be checked in blood tests but not all, therefore it is important to build a balanced menu and consider a multivitamin supplement or a specific vitamin as needed.
Tip: Vomiting is a risk factor for vitamin B1 (thiamine) deficiency and therefore it is important to check it if there is recurrent vomiting and in addition consult with the doctor regarding dose reduction.
Changes in eating behavior and listening to symptomsThe injections cause a decrease in appetite and rapid satiety, less desire to eat and sometimes also nausea or changes in bowel movements. These changes are largely responsible for the noticeable weight loss however it is important to deal with them correctly so that they do not cause treatment failure on the other hand. Therefore tailored eating is critical: Small meals every two – three hours, eat slowly and chew the food well and separate between drinking and eating.
In addition adjustment according to symptoms: Nausea – prefer dry and low-fat food, constipation – more fluids and fiber found mainly in whole grains, vegetables and fruits.
Tip: For those suffering from constipation – grate a tomato and add a teaspoon of olive oil.
Gallstones: A risk not everyone knowsRapid weight loss from any reason increases the risk of gallstone formation. For users of weight loss injections in whom the loss is rapid and sharp there is an increased risk. How to prevent this? Moderate the amount of fat in the diet – reduce fried foods, pastries rich in fat and foods high in saturated and trans fat, maintain high fluid intake and adequate fiber consumption.
Tip: Drastic weight loss is not recommended – even if there is no appetite avoid skipping meals and maintain regular eating throughout the day.
In any case, it is recommended to start nutritional guidance from the early stages and maintain regular follow-up throughout the process.
Galit Snir is a clinical dietitian of the company Hazera
Source:
www.jpost.com
