The use of weekly regimens for weight loss and diabetes management has led to significant advances in the medical treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
“At the center of therapeutic activity are GLP-1 agonists, a hormone secreted by intestinal epithelial cells, as well as GLP-1/GIP dual agonists. These hormones have particularly favorable metabolic effects, making them a key axis in the battle against obesity and type 2 diabetes”, point out Mr. Andreas Melidonis Pathologist – DiabetologistDirector of the Diabetes Center and Karolos Papalazarou, Dietician – Nutritionist of the Diabetes and Cardiometabolic Center, from the Metropolitan Hospital.
Results and requirements
GLP-1 agonists, such as weekly semaglutide (Ozempic), and GLP-1/GIP agonists, such as tirzepatide (Mounjaro), which will soon be available in Greece, have proven their effectiveness in glycemic regulation, reducing glycated hemoglobin up to 2%. At the same time, these treatments contribute to a noticeable loss of body weight, with tirzepatide achieving losses of up to 23% of body weight. However, these medications come with significant dietary requirements and interventions that must be considered.
Nutritional requirements for maintaining muscle mass
Weight loss with these treatments comes mainly from the reduction of adipose tissue but there is also a risk of loss of muscle mass, which can lead to sarcopenia. To prevent this situation, appropriate nutritional strategies have been developed, particularly in the USA, to ensure the preservation of muscle mass during treatments. These strategies include increased consumption of fiber, vitamin B12, calcium, and vitamin D3 to keep patients in good nutritional status.
The role of nutrition education
Proper nutrition can also help reduce the potential side effects of GLP-1 agonists, such as fatigue, nausea, and acid reflux. Therefore, nutritional education and counseling are essential to the successful use of these medications, and regular monitoring of nutrient levels and body composition is critical.
Key nutrients for treatment success
To ensure optimal effectiveness of these treatments, patients should focus on adequate intake of five key nutrients:
1. Protein: Decreased appetite caused by drugs can lead to insufficient protein intake and, by extension, muscle loss. A daily intake of 1.0-1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight is recommended for elderly and obese patients, while for patients with kidney disease intake should be limited to 0.6-0.8 grams. Eating small protein meals throughout the day as well as using protein supplements can help meet needs.
2. Plant Fibers: Reduced food consumption can cause constipation. It is recommended to get 25-35 grams of fiber per day through vegetables and fruits such as carrots, broccoli and legumes.
3. Vitamin B12: GLP-1 agonists may decrease vitamin B12 levels, making it necessary to eat foods rich in it, such as animal products. Vegetarians and vegans can turn to nutritional yeast as an alternative source.
4. Calcium: Adequate calcium intake is vital for bone health, especially for postmenopausal women. The recommended amount is 1000-1200 mg per day, with sources such as dairy and dark leafy vegetables being good choices.
5. Vitamin D3: Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone health. Its intake can be enhanced through fatty fish, eggs and fortified dairy products, while supplements may be necessary to meet needs.
Conclusion
“The use of weekly medications for weight loss and diabetes mellitus offers significant benefits but comes with dietary requirements. Close collaboration between clinicians and nutritionists is essential to ensure optimal patient health and minimize side effects, ensuring these treatments remain effective and safe. The Diabetes Center and the Diabetes and Cardiometabolic Center of Metropolitan Hospital.
The above are modern Centers, equipped with the cutting edge of technology and with the most qualified staff, at the service of patients with diabetes. The Centers offer comprehensive, multifactorial treatment of the patient’s cardiometabolic disorders.
During a visit, the patient is treated by the specialist for his metabolic problem (e.g. the diabetic by the diabetologist), while at the same time tests are carried out to detect problems and heart disorders from the specific metabolic disorder (e.g. a heart triplex is performed ). After the overall assessment of the patient’s cardiovascular health, final instructions are given by a group of doctors for the prevention of cardiovascular complications (e.g. diabetologist, cardiologist)”, conclude Mr. Melidonis and Papalazarou.
Source :Skai
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