GLP-1 Weight-Loss Medicines Explained — and Why Real Food Is Still the Key to Lasting Results

Curious about GLP-1 medicines? Learn how personalised nutrition and Metabolic Balance® can help you lose weight safely, nourish your body, and build confidence — with or without medication.

The Rise of GLP-1 Weight-Loss Medicines

You’ve heard the buzz — GLP-1 weight-loss medicines are everywhere. Some examples of these medications are: Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda, and Zepbound. Maybe you’ve thought, “That’s the answer for me.”

These medicines work by mimicking a natural gut hormone (GLP-1) that helps regulate blood sugar, slow digestion, and reduce appetite. Some newer versions also act on GIP receptors, giving an even stronger effect. They’re approved for managing obesity and type 2 diabetes, and for many people they can lead to significant weight loss — often 10–20% of body weight.

But here’s what many people don’t realise: while these medicines can reduce your appetite, they don’t teach you how to eat well — and that’s where problems can begin. What happens when you stop taking them and still do not know what and how to eat to maintain your health and weight loss.

When Appetite Suppression Backfires

 Let me share two real-life stories (names changed for privacy).

💊 Trudy’s Story — Continuing on the GLP-1 Medicine

Trudy had been using a GLP-1 weight-loss medicine for months before coming to see me. It worked beautifully at first — her appetite disappeared and the kilos magically dropped fast. But over time, her progress stalled. She was tired, foggy, and forgetting to eat. When she did, it was whatever was easiest — toast, crackers, takeaway. Her bowels slowed to a crawl, leaving her bloated and uncomfortable.

When we started her personalised Metabolic Balance® plan, she chose to stay on her medication but wanted to learn how to eat again. Within weeks, her digestion improved, her energy lifted, and her weight began moving again. Her bowels were finally regular, and she told me, “I can’t believe how much better I feel now that I’m actually eating real food again.”

🌿 Alice’s Story — Coming Off the Medicine

Alice had taken a GLP-1 weight-loss medicine for several months. It worked at first, but then the results stopped. Her appetite was gone, and with it went her energy, motivation, and spark. She said she “didn’t even recognise herself anymore.” Her skin and hair had lost their glow, she felt constantly tired, and she didn’t realise how unwell she was until she stopped the medication.

Worried about how she’d lose weight without it, Alice joined my Metabolic Balance® program. To her surprise, results came quickly. The best part? She felt amazing again. Her brain fog cleared, her workouts felt good, and her confidence returned. She told me, “It’s not just the weight — I actually feel like me again.”

The Downside of Eating Less Without Nourishing More

When your appetite disappears, so does your intake of the nutrients your body depends on — protein, fibre, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Without these, your body can’t maintain muscle, hormones, or energy. That’s why so many people experience side effects like fatigue, constipation, dry skin, or brain fog while using GLP-1 medicines.

These medicines can help, but they need to be paired with nourishment — not starvation.

Where Metabolic Balance® Comes In
Metabolic Balance® is a science-based, personalised nutrition program created from your own blood values. It’s designed to support your metabolism, balance your hormones, and help your body function at its best — whether you’re using a GLP-1 medicine or not.

Here’s how it complements GLP-1 medicines beautifully:

1. Protects Your Nutrition During Appetite Loss
   When you’re eating less, the food you do eat needs to count. Metabolic Balance ensures you get enough protein, fibre, and micronutrients to keep energy, skin, and muscle strong — even on smaller portions.

2. Supports Digestion and Reduces Side Effects
   Whole foods and balanced meals help ease nausea, constipation, and bloating — common side effects of GLP-1s.

3. Builds Sustainable Habits
   Medicines aren’t a forever fix. Metabolic Balance teaches you how to eat so you can keep the results once medication stops.

4. Optimises Long-Term Metabolic Health
   Real food helps improve blood sugar balance, energy, and sleep — all key to maintaining a healthy metabolism.

5. Gives You a Plan, Not Just a Prescription
   Most people start medication with little guidance on food. Metabolic Balance fills that gap with a personalised roadmap that nourishes your body and mind.

6. Supports you and Keeps you Accountable Metabolic Balance is a personal nutrition program that is fully supported by a qualified practitioner. I have been using Metabolic Balance in my clinic since 2019 and am very experienced in supporting my clients. You do not have to guess; you have a practitioner to support you in every way. Personally, I offer it as a stand-alone program or as part of My Total Body Confidence Method.
   
   

So — Should You Use Both?

Maybe. Maybe not. Here’s my take:

• If you’re considering a GLP-1 weight-loss medicine, start with Metabolic Balance first. Build your foundation.

• If you’re already using one and noticing fatigue, side effects, or a plateau — Metabolic Balance can help you feel well again while continuing to lose.

• If you’re combining both, let nutrition lead the way.
  

GLP-1 medicines suppress appetite. Metabolic Balance teaches you what and how to eat.
Together, they can create a path that helps you lose weight, keep it off, and feel truly well.

Ready to Feel That Way Too?

Grab my free 3-Day Meal Plan for Busy Mums and see how delicious structured real food can be.
Or try my low-cost 2-week Metabolism Makeover program — your first taste of a balanced, energising lifestyle that lasts. This program is based on the Metabolic Balance lifestyle.

And if you’d like personal support?
Book a free clarity call and find out whether Metabolic Balance — or a combined approach — is your best next step. 💛

🍽 Introducing — The Zest Nutrition Meal Plan Membership

If you’ve ever wished someone could just tell you what to cook and make healthy eating feel easy, you’ll love what’s coming next!

I’m launching my brand-new Meal Plan Membership in November, created especially for busy women who want real-food meals that support weight loss, energy, and balance — without spending hours in the kitchen.

Each month, you’ll get:
✅ Done-for-you meal plans and shopping lists
✅ Delicious, family-friendly recipes that align with your Metabolic Balance principles
✅ Nutrition tips to make healthy feel simple
✅ And a supportive space to help you stay consistent

Check it out here: Zest Meal Plan Membership

By Zita Dixon

Nutritionist, Master Health and Mindset Coach, Metabolic Balance Practitioner and Chef

⚖️ Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. GLP-1 medicines are prescription-only treatments and should only be used under the guidance of a qualified medical practitioner. Metabolic Balance® is a nutrition and lifestyle program designed to complement medical care, not replace it. Always speak with your GP or healthcare provider before making changes to your medication, diet, or treatment plan.