GLP-1 receptor agonists are associated with reduced appetite, early satiety, and lower overall food intake, which may increase the risk of micronutrient inadequacy over time, particularly if baseline intake is suboptimal.
Nutrients Most Commonly Affected
- Iron, zinc, magnesium, and calcium – due to reduced total caloric intake, lower dietary fat consumption, and potential changes in gastrointestinal absorption
- Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) – impacted by lower caloric and fat intake
- B vitamins (B1 and B12) and vitamin C – may become suboptimal with decreased food volume, limited dietary variety, and reduced intake of fruits, vegetables, and protein-rich foods
Why Monitoring Nutrient Status Is Important
Given these risks, it is recommended to:
- Assess baseline nutrient status prior to initiating GLP-1 therapy to identify pre-existing deficiencies
- Guide supplementation strategies to support muscle preservation, bone health, immune function, and overall metabolic resilience during treatment
By addressing these considerations, patients on GLP-1 therapy can help prevent nutrient deficiencies while still benefiting from appetite regulation and improved metabolic outcomes.
