Plant-Based Nutrition Alleviates GI Symptoms and Enhances Protein Intake During GLP-1 Therapy

Background Glucagon-like-peptide receptor agonists (GLP-1RA), such as semaglutide, are widely used for weight management but often lead to gastrointestinal (GI) side effects, which compromise nutritional intake and may increase the risk of muscle loss. This study explores whether a plant-based high protein nutrition shake (PBHPNS) can support acceptance, tolerance, and nutrient adequacy in individuals on GLP-1RA therapy. Objective To determine whether a plant-based nutrition approach with increased protein and fiber would improve acceptance, tolerance, and nutrient intake of individuals on GLP-1RA therapy. Methods This single-arm, open-label pilot study included adults (BMI > 27 kg/m 2 ) on GLP-1RA therapy for ≥4 weeks. Participants consumed 1–2 servings of the PBHPNS daily for 7 days. Acceptance, likability, and GI symptoms were assessed at baseline, acute post-consumption (2h), and post-intervention. Two 24-hour dietary recalls were collected. Results Twenty participants completed the study and there were no drop-outs (13 Ozempic, 7 Wegovy). Acute GI symptoms improved significantly two hours after the first PBHPNS consumption, particularly for abdominal bloating and constipation (p < 0.05). No statistically significant changes in GI symptoms were seen over the treatment period. Over the intervention period, participants significantly increased protein and fiber intake, averaging 1.7 shakes per day and ranked them likeable on a standard scale. Conclusions The PBHPNS effectively addressed the nutritional gap in GLP-1RA users by significantly increasing protein and fiber intake without exacerbating GI symptoms. There was significantly less bloating and constipation immediately after consumption and notable trends in improved GI symptoms throughout the 7 days. This study suggests that a clinically designed, low-volume plant-based high protein nutrition shake may mitigate the nutritional risks of muscle loss and GI distress associated with GLP-1RA-induced anorexia and gastric delay. Also, additional studies are required due to this being a pilot study. Clinical Trial Registry number and website where it was obtained NCT07096739. Study Details | NCT07096739 | Tolerance of a High Protein Nutrition Shake in Individuals on GLP-1 | ClinicalTrials.gov