Thinking About GLP-1 Medications? Here’s Why Dietitian Support Matters
- Sophie Kane | APD, MDP
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
It’s likely you’ve been hearing more and more about GLP-1 medications lately. Drugs like Ozempic, Mounjaro and Wegovy are being talked about everywhere– in GP offices, online forums, podcasts, even in the line at the coffee shop. It makes total sense if you’re feeling curious, conflicted, pressured, or unsure!
At Dietetics Done Differently, we believe decisions about your body deserve space, nuance, care and information. Your body autonomy matters. You have the right to explore all available options and make decisions that feel aligned with your health, values, and lived experience. Our role is not to tell you what to do. It’s to ensure you have accurate, evidence-informed guidance and compassionate support along the way.
We don’t centre weight loss as a primary treatment goal, because we know weight doesn’t equate to health and wellbeing is shaped by so many factors, including nutrition adequacy, muscle mass, sleep, stress, relationship with food, mental wellbeing, social connection, sustainable movement, plus much more. These are the foundations that truly move the dial on long-term health. GLP-1 medications interact with many of these factors, which is a big reason why Dietitian support is so important.
Why a Dietitian Should Be Part of Your GLP-1 Support Team
GLP-1 medications work by altering appetite signalling and slowing gastric emptying. For some people, this leads to reduced food intake. But a reduced appetite does not mean reduced nutritional needs.
Without structured guidance, people can unintentionally experience:
Inadequate energy intake
Insufficient protein (and muscle loss)
Micronutrient deficiencies
Fatigue or dizziness
Gastrointestinal discomfort
Re-emergence of restrictive eating patterns
For individuals with a history of dieting, disordered eating, or eating disorders, these risks are especially significant. Appetite suppression can sometimes blur the line between medical treatment and old restrictive patterns so a Dietitian, especially one that’s Eating Disorder Credentialed can help ensure your body and mind stays nourished and protected.
How Dietitians at DDD Support You
If you’re considering GLP-1 medications (or already using them)– here’s how we walk alongside you.
1. Creating Space for Honest Exploration
We help you unpack your motivations gently and without judgment. Is the desire driven by health concerns? Cultural pressure? Medical advice? Fear? Hope? Often it’s not just one factor, but a combination of influences.
2. Protecting Nutritional Adequacy
Even if hunger cues change, your body still requires consistent energy, protein, and micronutrients. We help you:
Structure meals when appetite is low
Prioritise protein to preserve lean body mass
Prevent under-fuelling
Monitor signs of malnutrition
3. Supporting Digestive Comfort
Side effects like nausea, reflux, bloating, and early fullness are common. Strategic food choices, timing adjustments, and texture modifications can significantly reduce discomfort, without compromising intake.
4. Safeguarding Your Relationship With Food
We work from an abundance over restriction viewpoint, focusing on:
Flexibility
Permission
Neutral language around food
Reducing moral judgement
Maintaining food variety
We acknowledge that this is a complex conversation and you don’t need to have a perfectly formed opinion. You’re allowed to ask questions, and you’re allowed to change your mind.
At DDD, we approach GLP-1 medications with clinical reasoning, support, compassion, and client-centered care. If you’d like to talk through your options in a grounded, non-judgmental space, our Dietitians are here to listen.
What's next?
Book in for a 10min zoom call and let us help!
GLP-1 Questions Answered
Can I buy a GLP-1 from a chemist?
No. GLP-1 medications are prescription-only in Australia. They must be prescribed by a GP or specialist and dispensed by a pharmacist.
What GLP-1 is available in Australia?
In Australia, GLP-1 receptor agonists available include Ozempic (semaglutide), Wegovy (semaglutide approved specifically for weight management), Mounjaro (tirzepatide), and Trulicity (dulaglutide). Availability and PBS criteria can change, so it’s best to speak with your GP.
How much weight can you lose on Mounjaro in 3 months?
Clinical trials of Mounjaro showed average weight loss of around 5–10% of body weight over 12–16 months, depending on dose and individual response. Results vary significantly and we encourage clients to speak directly to their GP about weight loss expectations.
What does Ozempic do for weight loss?
Ozempic works by copying the action of a natural hormone in your body called GLP-1, which is released from your gut after you eat. In simple terms, it helps your brain and stomach “talk” to each other differently. It slows down how quickly food leaves your stomach, which means you feel full for longer after meals. It also reduces hunger signals in the brain, so you may think about food less often or feel satisfied with smaller portions. On top of that, it helps your body manage blood sugar levels more steadily by improving how insulin works after you eat.
Because you feel fuller and less hungry, many people naturally eat less without trying to restrict. However, the same slowing effect on the stomach is also why side effects like nausea, reflux, bloating, constipation, or feeling overly full can happen– especially in the first few weeks or after a dose increase.
What is the biggest side effect of Ozempic?
The most common and significant side effect of Ozempic is nausea. Other common effects include vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, reflux, and reduced appetite, but it’s important to note that everybody has different reactions.
How do you settle your stomach with Ozempic?
Helpful strategies include eating smaller and slower meals, avoiding high-fat or very large portions, staying hydrated, choosing cooked and easy-to-digest foods, and stopping when comfortably full. If symptoms are severe, speak to your prescribing doctor.
Why do I feel so bad on Ozempic?
Feeling unwell on Ozempic is usually related to delayed stomach emptying and appetite suppression. Eating too quickly, too much, or high-fat meals can worsen symptoms. If symptoms are persistent or severe, medical review is important.
How long will Ozempic make me feel sick?
Nausea is most common in the first 2–8 weeks, particularly after dose increases. For many people, symptoms ease as the body adjusts. If nausea continues beyond this period, your GP may adjust your dose.
What foods ease Ozempic's side effects?
Plain foods that are often better tolerated include toast or crackers, plain rice or pasta, small amounts of lean protein, yoghurt, soups, and soft fruits. Fatty, fried, spicy, and very rich foods tend to worsen nausea.
Do you regain weight after stopping Ozempic?
Research suggests that many people regain some weight after stopping Ozempic, particularly if appetite returns to previous levels. Long-term support focusing on sustainable habits can help stabilise weight and support overall wellbeing.
What are the dangers of taking Ozempic?
Potential risks include persistent gastrointestinal symptoms, gallbladder issues, pancreatitis (rare), muscle loss if protein intake is inadequate, and nutritional deficiencies if intake becomes too low. Ongoing ad frequent medical supervision is important while taking GLP-1 medications.
How long can you stay on Ozempic?
There is currently no fixed maximum duration. Many people remain on Ozempic long-term under medical supervision. Stopping may reverse effects, which is why working with a Dietitian to form new behavioural patterns is so crucial.
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