September 21, 2024

Diabetes treatment is improving; one big change is using GLP-1 receptor agonists. These medicines help control blood sugar and weight management, essential for people with type 2 diabetes. GLP-1 therapy works best when combined with changes in behavior and lifestyle, especially with nutrition and weight management.

This article examines how GLP-1 receptor agonists, nutrition, and weight loss work together to improve the health of people with diabetes. It shows how combining these medicines with lifestyle changes can help people manage their diabetes better and improve their overall quality of life.

GLP-1 is a hormone produced in the small intestine that has several functions. It helps release insulin from the pancreas and stops the hormone glucagon, which raises blood sugar levels. By doing this, GLP-1 helps prevent too much glucose from getting into the blood. It also slows down how quickly the stomach empties and makes you feel full by affecting the brain’s hunger signals. GLP-1 agonist medicines act like this hormone.

GLP-1 can help with weight loss by reducing appetite, making you feel full longer and decreasing cravings. However, it can also cause side effects like nausea, reflux, constipation and possible muscle loss or dehydration.

To get the most out of GLP-1 receptor agonists, follow good nutrition strategies such as practicing mindful eating, consuming adequate protein, focusing on fiber intake, consuming smaller, balanced meals more frequently, ensuring adequate hydration, and finding an exercise routine you enjoy. An important strategy for implementing balanced nutrition is to include wholesome snacks. Some simple options include whole grain crackers with cottage cheese and cherry tomatoes, steamed edamame with Good Foods dip and protein bars or shakes. This combination can promote fullness and help bridge nutritional gaps between meals.

Your Hy-Vee registered dietitian can offer personalized guidance to effectively assist you in managing your diet while taking a GLP-1 medication to optimize treatment outcomes, address potential side effects, and support long-term weight loss and diabetes management.

Remember, dessert isn’t off limits! One way to manage a sweet tooth and control blood sugar is to enjoy desserts mindfully. Pick desserts you like and aim to have them five times a week or less. For healthy treat ideas, check out Hy-Vee.com. For example, try a chocolate peanut butter fruit pizza that uses dates for sweetness and is packed with fruit to help you feel full and satisfied.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Fruit Pizza
All You Need:
1 ½ c. soft pitted dates
1 c. Hy-Vee whole almonds
½ c. unsweetened shredded coconut
¼ c. unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tbsp. honey
2 tbsp. natural creamy peanut butter
1 ¼ c. Chobani vanilla nonfat Greek yogurt
Desired fruit, such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and/or blackberries

All you do:

1. Cut a large circle from parchment paper to line a circular pizza pan. Set aside.
2. Process the dates, almonds, coconut, and cocoa powder in a food processor or blender until finely chopped. Add the honey and peanut butter and continue processing until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into a ball. Using slightly wet hands, press the mixture onto the pizza pan. Use a rolling pin or your hands to press the mixture to the edges of the pan. Freeze the crust for 10 minutes.
4. Spread Greek yogurt on the crust with a spatula. Top crust with fruit in a circular pattern. Chill until ready to serve. Use a pizza cutter to slice into servings.

Source: Hy-Vee.com. Working alongside a Hy-Vee registered dietitian allows patients to safely manage potential side effects and maintain balanced and adequate nutrition. One-on-one nutrition counseling is a vital component to the successful utilization of GLP-1s. A subscription plan with your Hy-Vee registered dietitian is an excellent investment in your health and can help you gain the tools necessary for successful outcomes with GLP-1s. Visit Hy-Vee.com/Health to get started: Best Dietitians Near Me: Nutrition Counseling and Meal Planning (hy-vee.com). The information is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice.