Dietary supplement considerations during glucagon-like Peptide-1 receptor agonist treatment: A narrative review

Background: Recent advancements with Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1RA) result in approximately 15 % or more weight reduction. Scientific research addressing specific nutritional concerns with GLP-1RA are still emerging. While some guidelines currently exist for nutritional considerations, they are largely focused on side effect management and providing basic dietary guidance during GLP-1RA. Methods: This narrative review aims to provide practical evidence-based considerations for dietary supplementation to help optimize health outcomes while using GLP-1RA. We reviewed available literature of dietary supplementation interventions among individuals with obesity, weight loss clinical trials, and adiposity-related complications to help guide clinicians on potentially advantageous supplementation. Results: Robust data from meta-analyses provides justification for a variety of dietary supplements that can support the unintended consequences of GLP-1RA treatments. Multivitamins are recommended to address micronutrient insufficiencies as determined by individual deficiencies and suboptimal intake. Protein supplements can help individuals meet daily protein intake recommendations of 1.2-2.0 g/kg/d. When combined with resistance training, whey protein can help preserve lean body mass during weight loss, with additional strength benefits from creatine monohydrate and β-Hydroxy β-Methylbutyrate supplementation. Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients can mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation. Fiber and probiotics can improve bowel regularity and mitigate side effects. Conclusion: Healthcare providers play an active role in supporting their patients with comprehensive obesity treatment. Guidance should focus on improving their long-term health and potentially mitigating unintended consequences. Optimizing nutrient intakes with therapeutic doses of dietary supplements may enhance outcomes when used alongside GLP-1RA, such as increasing nutrient status, retaining lean mass, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, and improving gastrointestinal health.