Healthy habits & weight loss medications

Healthy habits are key to long term success with weight loss medications, says British Nutrition Foundation 

The British Nutrition Foundation has cautioned that the growing use of weight loss medications (GLP-1/ GIP Receptor Agonists – for example Wegovy and Monjaro) could negatively impact the nutritional status of a large proportion of the population if long-term healthy eating and lifestyle changes are not addressed alongside medication usage. 

Currently, most weight loss medications are licensed for use for a maximum of two years on the NHS. Sara Stanner, Science Director from the British Nutrition Foundation said: “Weight loss medications have emerged as an important tool for achieving a healthy weight, but lasting success depends on the healthy habits people build while taking them. The period of treatment is a window of opportunity for creating positive and healthy behaviour change and, by focusing on diet quality and physical activity, people can get the most out of their medication while also investing in their long-term health.”

These weight loss medications work by suppressing appetite, which means that people eat less food. Depending on the foods eaten, this could make it harder to get all the nutrients the body needs. The Foundation says that anyone using weight loss medications should receive advice on nutrition and physical activity alongside their treatment. 

However, Stanner said: “There is anecdotal evidence that some people accessing these medications privately are not getting the clinical support they need. Making nutrient-rich choices and staying active will help people get the most out of their treatment and maintain a healthier weight.”

The British Nutrition Foundation’s advice for people taking weight loss medications is:

·       Get at least 5 A DAY: Fruit and vegetables provide fibre and important nutrients like vitamin C, folate and potassium

·    Go fibre-rich: It may be difficult to meet the recommended 30g of fibre per day when eating fewer calories. To increase intakes, choose high-fibre foods at main meals and snacks, such as wholegrain breads, cereals, beans, lentils, nuts and vegetables

·      Think nutrient density: When appetite is reduced, every meal matters. Nutrient-rich foods can give you more vitamins, minerals and/or fibre per calorie. Aim for “quality calories”, foods like wholegrains, lean proteins, fruit, vegetables, dairy (or fortified dairy alternatives), rather than food high in fat, salt or sugar – a small handful of unsalted nuts, for example, is a great alternative to a chocolate biscuit.

·       Support your bones: Reduced fat dairy, such as milk, yogurt and cheese, or fortified plant alternatives like soya drinks, provide calcium, iodine and vitamin B12, which are all essential for bone and overall health. Other useful sources of nutrients for bone health include canned fish with bones (such as sardines), leafy green vegetables like kale, and fortified breakfast cereals. Vitamin D is also key for bone health and it’s important to consider a daily vitamin D supplement in the autumn and winter months (October to March).

·       Include beans and lentils: They’re rich in fibre and protein, low in fat, and are simple way to boost both nutrition and meal quality.

·       Omega-3: Include oily fish, such as salmon or mackerel, at least once a week for omega-3s, which can help keep your heart healthy. If you don’t eat fish, try plant-based sources of omega-3 such as flaxseed, chia seeds or walnuts.

·       Stay hydrated: Eating less could also mean drinking less and getting less water from fluid-rich foods. Water is the best choice of drink, but unsweetened tea and coffee are also useful for hydration and drinks like milk, smoothies and fruit juices can provide essential nutrients.

·       Keep active: Weight loss can also mean losing muscle. Regular resistance exercise (such as Pilates, yoga, or weight training), alongside adequate protein intake helps preserve muscle mass and strength, which is important for long-term health and fitness. Physical activity also supports long-term weight maintenance.

·       Consider a multivitamin: If your calorie intake is low, for example less than 1,400 kcal per day, it may be difficult to get all the nutrients you need from food alone and a daily multivitamin and mineral supplement may be advisable.

·       Seek support: Anyone taking weight loss medication should check in regularly with their GP or healthcare professional, especially when making changes to their diet or physical activity.

Stanner said: “There is a huge amount of advice being shared on social media about weight loss medications, but not all of it is reliable. People deserve clear, evidence-based guidance they can trust. That’s why we are sharing practical nutrition advice to help people make informed choices that support their health during treatment and beyond.”

To find out more in our page on eating well while taking weight loss medications

Download our current position and advice on diet and lifestyle support for people taking weight loss medications