How to Support a Loved One on a GLP-1

By Lizzie Streit, MS, RDN, LD 

With the growing use of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists in the treatment of obesity, chances are you may know someone taking one of these medications. In fact, a 2024 poll found that roughly 12% of US adults have taken a GLP-1 drug at some point in time. 

If a friend or family member is on a GLP-1 medication, such as Ozempic or Wegovy, you may be wondering how to best support them. These medications come with side effects that can change how a person eats, exercises, or even socializes. To help guide you on your quest to support loved ones on a GLP-1, this article provides our top five tips. 

1. First, understand how GLP-1 agonists work. 

These medications, which are given as injections, primarily work by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone naturally produced by the body. They slow down digestion and stimulate insulin secretion, leading to increased satiety and better blood sugar control. As a result, many people on these medications eat less and lose weight. Due to their mechanism of action, side effects of GLP-1 agonists include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Reduced calorie intake, combined with fat loss, may also contribute to a loss of muscle mass while on a GLP-1. 

2. Embrace small meals. 

Due to slowed digestion, people taking GLP-1 drugs often tolerate small meals better than large ones. If your friend or family member is adjusting their meal schedule to eat smaller portions, help with this goal by suggesting appetizers or a light lunch instead of your usual dinner out. You can invite them over for tea and a healthy snack or suggest meeting for coffee. 

3. Stay positive and encourage positive thinking. 

Some people have a difficult time adjusting to a GLP-1 or take a while to see results, so it’s important to stay positive in your conversations with them by pointing out small wins. Listen with empathy and avoid casting judgement or asking nagging questions. If they are struggling with a particular side effect like nausea, offer to brainstorm ideas together to help manage it. 

4. Seek out meal planning guidance. 

If you are the spouse or partner of someone on a GLP-1, it can be difficult to come up with meal ideas and prepare food that fits his or her needs and keeps side effects at bay. People taking GLP-1 medications need balanced meals with protein, fiber-rich carbohydrates, and lean fats and may have even been told to follow a 1200 calorie meal plan. Sugary and greasy foods may worsen side effects. To help with meal planning and prep, consider working with a dietitian or getting started with a healthy diet meal delivery like Healthy For Life Meals. 

5. Exercise together! 

Like most medications, GLP-1 agonists are not magic. It’s still extremely important for people taking them to engage in regular physical activity, especially strength training to counteract any muscle loss. If your friend or family member needs some motivation to stick with an exercise routine, offer to join them! Suggest activities that you both enjoy and that incorporate strength training to some extent. And if you have time for a post-workout snack together, go for protein-rich Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or hard-boiled eggs with a banana or orange. 

Note from Healthy For Life Meals: Want to support those on GLP-1 medications in your life? Help your loved ones get started with our meal plans! They’re nutritionally balanced, fully prepared, and so delicious — the perfect formula for someone on a GLP-1.  And now, they are HSA/FSA eligible with your doctor’s letter.