Plant-Based Nutrition Alleviates Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Enhances Protein Intake during GLP-1 Therapy

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.

This study aimed 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.

This single-arm, open-label pilot study included adults (BMI >27 kg/m²) on GLP-1RA therapy for ≥4 wk. Participants consumed 1 to 2 servings of the PBHPNS daily for 7 d. Acceptance, likability, and GI symptoms were assessed at baseline, acute postconsumption (2 h), and postintervention. Two 24-h dietary recalls were collected.

Twenty participants completed the study, and there were no dropouts (13 Ozempic, 7 Wegovy). Acute GI symptoms improved significantly 2 h 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/d, and ranked them likable on a standard scale.

The PBHPNS effectively addresses the nutritional gap in GLP-1RA users by significantly increasing protein and fiber intake without exacerbating GI symptoms. There is significantly less bloating and constipation immediately after consumption and notable trends in improved GI symptoms throughout the 7 d. This study suggests that a clinically designed, low-volume PBHPNS 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 because of this being a pilot study.This study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov at NCT07096739.