On a Weight Loss Medication?
Get the Most Out of It by Working With a Registered Dietitian
Weight loss medications—such as GLP-1 receptor agonists like Wegovy®, Zepbound™, Ozempic®, or other appetite suppressants—are changing the landscape of obesity treatment.
But… medication alone won’t work.
At least they won’t if you’re looking for long-term success. The best results happen when these tools are paired with personalized nutrition, behavior change, and lifestyle strategies—areas where a Registered Dietitian can help you shine.
“It’s a Tool in the Toolbox” – My Dad’s Woodshop Wisdom
The majority of my clients are working on weight management, and many are using—or considering—these medications. When people ask my opinion, my answer is always: “It’s a tool in the toolbox.”
My dad is a woodworker. As he’s guided me through recent DIY projects, he’s reminded me that the right tool, used in the right way, can make all the difference.
Imagine trying to hang a picture without a hammer or drill. You could use 3M tape, and it might hold—until the weather changes or the picture is too heavy. Then it falls, the frame shatters, and now you’ve got broken glass and a hole in the wall. Not good.
Weight management medications are no different—they’re powerful tools, but they work best when used with the right approach. That’s where I come in.
Why Medication Alone Isn’t Enough
Appetite suppression ≠ balanced nutrition – Many people unintentionally under-eat protein, fiber, or essential nutrients.
Metabolic adaptation – Without strength training and enough protein, muscle mass is lost along with fat, lowering your metabolism.
Skills still matter – Medication doesn’t teach you how to navigate emotional eating, vacations, business travel, or holidays.
Lifelong therapy – If medication stops, your habits will determine whether the weight stays off.
The Dietitian’s Role in Maximizing Results
Protecting Muscle Mass to Preserve Metabolism
Set individualized protein goals (without forcing you to live on chicken breast and shakes—unless you want to!)
Ensure you’re eating enough to avoid losing muscle too quickly
Guide you on incorporating strength training
Optimizing Nutrient Intake
Make sure you’re meeting vitamin, mineral, and fiber needs despite a smaller appetite
Take a “food first” approach, with supplement recommendations when needed
Use small, nutrient-dense meals to prevent deficiencies
Managing Side Effects
Strategies for reducing nausea, constipation, or GI discomfort
Adjust meal timing, portion sizes, and food textures for comfort
Building Sustainable Habits
Plan meal timing to prevent undereating and rebound hunger
Create food-prep routines that fit your appetite and schedule
Supporting Behavior Change
Develop coping strategies for emotional eating
Celebrate non-scale victories
Practice mindful eating to enjoy smaller portions more
Coordinating Care
I regularly communicate with your primary care provider and other members of your healthcare team—when appropriate—so everyone is on the same page, working toward the same treatment goals, and supporting your progress from every angle.
Realistic Expectations & Monitoring
Understand the average weight loss with medication
Learn why plateaus are normal—and how to use them to your advantage
Track body composition (fat vs. muscle) using advanced bioimpedance technology
How Working With a Dietitian Works
Initial Consultation – Review medical history, medications, and labs
Goal Setting – Define targets beyond the scale (energy, strength, labs, clothing fit)
Ongoing Follow-Ups – Adjust strategies as your body changes
Insurance-Friendly – We accept insurance, and most of my weight management clients pay $0 out-of-pocket
The Partnership Model
Weight loss medication can be a powerful jumpstart—but without nutrition and lifestyle strategies, it’s like putting premium gas in a car without ever tuning the engine.
Working with a dietitian ensures you:
Protect muscle
Meet nutrient needs
Build habits that keep the weight off for life
Together, we’ll make sure your “tool in the toolbox” works to its fullest potential.
Want to know more, or set up an appointment? Reach out today!
