Thinking about GLP-1’s?
In recent years, the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists—such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro—has grown rapidly among individuals seeking support for diabetes management, insulin resistance, and, more recently, weight loss. As dietitians who embrace a non-diet, weight-inclusive approach, we are asked how we support clients who are considering, using, or are discontinuing the use of a GLP-1.
The answer lies in compassionate, individualized care that aligns with the clients values—not the number on a scale.
What Are GLP-1s?
GLP-1s (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) are medications that mimic a naturally occurring hormone in the body and impact blood sugar, insulin, and appetite.
At Wilfong Nutrition LLC, we don’t see these medications as inherently good or bad. Instead, we provide the space for clients to honestly discuss their feelings and concerns with using these medications. Some clients may find them helpful for managing blood sugar and other medical conditions, while others struggle with GI side effects, their impact on disordered eating patterns, or internal conflict they raise around diet culture.
GLP-1s, Diet Culture, and the Need for Safe Spaces
The current media hype around GLP-1s often reinforces the harmful notion that thinner is always better. At Wilfong Nutrition LLC, we push back against this narrative. People in all bodies deserve respectful, evidence-informed care. That includes those who choose to use GLP-1s and those who don’t.
Our clients tell us they feel stuck between two extremes: medical providers focused solely on weight loss, and dietitians or nutrition spaces that shame medication use. We aim to be different—a weight-neutral, shame-free place where every choice is met with empathy.
Our Approach to GLP-1 Use
We do work with clients prescribed GLP-1s—always from a place of respect and curiosity, never shame. We want our clients to feel comfortable discussing these medications and their impact on their relationship with food and their bodies.
We Focus on Nourishment, Not Restriction
We help clients find sustainable ways to nourish their bodies. GLP-1 medications can influence overall nutritional status, so it’s essential the dietitians at Wilfong Nutrition address an individual’s nutrition needs and provide nutrition education in a format that works for each client.
We Address the Emotional and Social Aspects of Eating (i.e. you still have to “do the work”)
Food is more than fuel—it’s culture, connection, and comfort. Clients prescribed GLP-1s might grieve a changed relationship with food or have been told it will ‘fix'‘ their relationship with food. We provide space to talk about those aspects of medication without judgment, and we explore ways to maintain joyful, satisfying eating experiences. Equally important is aiding clients who stop taking GLP-1s for personal or insurance coverage reasons. We walk beside those clients, through their fears of weight and health changes, as well as continue to help them address their relationship with food.
We do not believe GLP- 1s alone can ‘fix’ a relationship with food.
We do believe nutritional counseling is a vital part of building a sustainable, healthy relationship with food.
We Support Autonomy and Informed Choice
Whether a client chooses to begin, continue, or discontinue a GLP-1 medication, we provide education—not persuasion. Each person’s health journey is valid and personal. Our role is to walk alongside them, offering tools and insight that support informed, values-aligned decisions.
Final Thoughts
At Wilfong Nutrition, we believe that every person deserves care that honors their body. Whether you choose to use a GLP-1 medication or not, we’re here to help you reconnect with food, tune into your body, and live a life guided by your values—not the scale.
