I am frequently asked, “What are your thoughts on GLP medications?”
My answer begins in the same place: my job is not to judge anyone’s journey. My job is to listen, educate and support my clients so they can make informed decisions while protecting their health.
Do I believe GLP medications can be useful tools for the right individual? Yes. Semaglutide works primarily through the GLP-1 pathway, while tirzepatide works through both the GLP-1 and GIP pathways. These medications may help regulate appetite, reduce food noise and improve blood-sugar management.
However, the medication should remain a tool—not become the entire plan.
Support Without Judgment
There are many reasons someone may consider these medications. They may have struggled with weight for years, feel consumed by food noise, have difficulty managing blood sugar or believe they have tried everything without lasting success.
They do not need shame, criticism or someone telling them they should have been able to do it on their own. They need support.
When a client chooses this path with their healthcare provider, I meet them where they are. We discuss what they are eating, how they feel, their hydration, digestion, bowel regularity, energy and whether they are maintaining strength.
Eating Less Is Not the Same as Being Nourished
These medications may significantly reduce hunger, cravings and food noise. While that can be helpful, it can also become easy to skip meals, eat very small portions or go through the day without enough protein, calories, fluids and essential nutrients.
A decreasing number on the scale does not automatically mean the body is being properly supported.
Some symptoms—including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and abdominal discomfort—can be direct medication side effects. These should be taken seriously, and ongoing or severe symptoms should be discussed with the prescribing provider. The FDA lists gastrointestinal concerns among the common side effects of these medications.
At the same time, eating too little may cause or intensify other concerns, including:
- Fatigue, weakness or feeling cold
- Hair shedding
- Headaches or dizziness
- Constipation and poor digestion
- Poor workout performance and recovery
- Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
- Loss of muscle, strength and resilience
Muscle loss is especially important to consider. Weight loss should not come at the expense of the muscle needed to support metabolism, blood-sugar regulation, mobility, bone health and healthy aging. Adequate protein, nutrient-dense foods and appropriate strength training remain essential—even when appetite is low.
The goal should never be to see how little someone can eat or how quickly the scale can move. The goal is sustainable progress while keeping the body nourished, strong and functioning well.
The Foundations Still Matter
Regardless of which tool someone uses, the foundational pillars I stand by do not change:
- Personalized nutrition
- Stress modification
- Quality sleep
- Strength training and movement
- Proper hydration
- Digestive and bowel support
- A strong mind-body connection
The scale is only one piece of the picture. I also want to know whether my client is maintaining muscle, sleeping well, managing stress, moving regularly and developing habits that can support them long term.
I am not here to convince someone to take a GLP medication—or not to take one. Medication decisions belong between the individual and their qualified prescribing provider.
My role is to provide education without fear, support without judgment and a personalized strategy that looks beyond weight loss. Every person’s journey is different, and every person deserves to feel supported while navigating it.
If you are looking for support on your health journey, you do not have to navigate it alone. I would love to listen to your story, answer your questions and help you explore a personalized path forward. Book a complimentary discovery call.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or replace medical advice. Medication decisions and concerning symptoms should always be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Your Partner in Health,
Reg
