Patient Counselor on Nutrition and Following a Balanced Diet Supplementing GLP-1s

According to the results of a new survey from the Kaiser Family Foundation, 1 in 8 adults have taken glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) antagonist medications. Of those who took GLP-1, 6% were currently taking the drug.¹ With such widespread use, it is imperative to address nutritional needs and a balanced diet for patients taking GLP-1 medications.

Although GLP-1 medications are approved for the treatment of diabetes and have cardiovascular indications, weight loss has been a topic of discussion, and some of these medications even have indications for weight loss when combined with diet and exercise. There has also been significant pressure from medical groups such as the American Heart Association (AHA) to recognize obesity as a chronic medical condition. In a recent scientific statement, the AHA addressed gaps in care for patients with obesity, including how to have conversations with patients who may be reluctant to talk to their doctor or other health care professionals about their weight.³

When combined with lifestyle changes, GLP-1 medications can help reduce excess weight, according to the American Medical Association. GLP-1 medications are very effective for weight loss, but a high-quality diet is just as important.⁴

GLP-1 medications can cause significant changes in appetite by increasing feelings of fullness. In addition, eating foods high in fat or sugar can cause gastrointestinal disturbances for patients on GLP-1 medications.

Patients on these medications should be advised to eat smaller meals more often and prioritize protein and whole foods, including lean proteins, vegetables, whole grains, fruit and healthy fats. Portion control is also key, and there are techniques to ensure adequate portions of protein, vegetables and carbohydrates in each meal without counting calories or calculating macronutrients. Finally, getting adequate amounts of fiber and staying hydrated are important to any healthy diet.⁵

Pharmacists can take steps to provide information and counseling to patients starting treatment with GLP-1 medications. In addition, some companies are taking specific steps to address the need for nutritional information and options for this growing patient population.

For example, Nestlé has announced a new food line called “Vital Pursuit,” designed to be a companion to GLP-1 medications. According to a news release, “The products are high in protein, a good source of fiber, that contain essential nutrients, and are partially aligned with the appetite of the user of weight loss medications.”⁶

“We know that each consumer has individual needs and considerations on a health journey, and having options to support those needs will continue to play an important role,” said Tom Moe, president of Nestlé USA’s Meals Division, in the news release. “Over the past several years, we have been expanding options across our meal portfolio to address consumers’ eating habits, and as the market evolves, we will continue to expand Vital Pursuit with more product formats for our consumers. “⁶

The new line aims to provide a balanced diet for individuals who plan to lose weight, making it the first food brand from the company intended for GLP-1 users. The products include a variety of frozen options including bowls with whole grains, protein pasta, sandwich melts, and pizza. The company plans to make it affordable, with a suggested retail price of $4.99 and under. In addition, the products focus on portion and nutrients, including protein, vitamin A, potassium, calcium, and iron. It will also come in gluten free options as well as air fryer options.⁶

Vital Pursuit is expected to be available by the fourth quarter of 2024.⁶

References

1. Gallagher A. Survey: 1 in 8 Adults Currently Using GLP-1 Medication, 6%. Times Pharmacy. May 14, 2024. Accessed May 22, 2024. https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/survey-1-in-8-adults-have-utilized-a-glp-1-medication-6-currently- are

2. Significant gaps between obesity science and the care patients receive. News release. American Heart Association. May 20, 2024. Accessed May 22, 2024. https://newsroom.heart.org/news/significant-gaps-between-science-of-obesity-and-the-care-patients-receive

3. JP Morgan. The appetite increase for obesity drugs. November 29, 2023. Accessed May 22, 2024. https://www.jpmorgan.com/insights/global-research/current-events/obesity-drugs

4. Lubell J. In the age of GLP-1 agonists, food choices are still important for health. American Medical Association. February 6, 2024. Accessed May 22, 2024. https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/age-glp-1-agonists-food-choices-still-matter-health

5. Nutrition while taking GLP-1 medications for weight loss. Sentara. April 10, 2024. Accessed May 22, 2024. https://www.sentara.com/healthwellness/articles/nutrition-and-weight-loss-medication#:~:text=Eat%20protein%20first%2C%20non %2Dstarchy, and%20 taking%20GLP%2D1%20 medication

6. Nestlé Introduces Tóir Beatha Brand to Support GLP-1 Users, Consumers Focused on Weight Management. Press release. Nestlé. May 21, 2024. Accessed May 22, 2024. https://nestleusa.com/media/pressreleases/vital-pursuit-glp-1-weight-management