Saxenda can be an effective way to lose weight and manage weight loss. If you are considering starting Saxenda or you’ve just begun taking the injectable weight loss medication, you may be wondering what foods you should eat when taking Saxenda - or more specifically, what foods you should avoid. 

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That’s what we’ll be exploring in this blog post. Read on to learn more about Saxenda, including what foods to avoid while on Saxenda, and what foods you should eat to lose weight on Saxenda.

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What is Saxenda? 

Saxenda, with the active ingredient liraglutide, is a prescription drug that is used for weight management. It’s designed to help those with excess weight or obesity lose weight, with a combination of a healthy diet and exercise. It is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. ‍

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Saxenda works by mimicking a hormone in your body that controls hunger. This makes you feel full for longer, which can prevent you from overeating. 

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Like most drugs, Saxenda can have side effects. Some Saxenda side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. 

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It’s important to note that Saxenda isn’t a magical weight-loss solution - it should be taken in combination with physical activity and a reduced-calorie diet. 

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What Foods Should I Avoid While Taking Saxenda? 

Although no foods are necessarily ‘off limits’ when you take Saxenda, there are certain foods that you should eat in moderation or avoid entirely. This is because certain foods may slow down your weight loss, or increase the chances of experiencing unpleasant side effects. 

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Because the Saxenda treatment plan is designed to help you stick to a calorie-controlled diet, you should avoid high-sugar, high-calorie foods - or of course, eat them in moderation. 

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It can be helpful to avoid foods high in sugar, high in saturated fats, or ultra-processed foods. We also recommend that you avoid extremely large portions - instead, monitor your portion sizes and eat mindfully. This can involve checking in with your body and taking note of when you feel hungry or full. 

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Avoid Sugary Foods and Drinks 

When taking Saxenda, you don’t have to avoid sugary food completely - but we recommend that you limit the amount of sugar you consume. Eating foods high in sugar can cause you to exceed your recommended calorie limit, which will prevent Saxenda from aiding your weight loss journey. 

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For increased success when taking Saxenda, steer clear of foods such as:

• Sweets 
• Cakes 
• Ice cream
• Full-fat fizzy drinks 

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Many popular beverages are full of sugar, whether it’s a frappé, orange juice or your favourite fizzy cola. Many people drink these throughout the day without realising how many calories they add up to. Instead of enjoying a full-fat cola, why not opt for water? 

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Water can taste much more appealing if you add fruit slices such as lemon, cucumber or lime. Alternatively, opt for sugar-free alternatives to your favourite fizzy drinks. Choosing lower-calorie beverages can aid your weight loss on Saxenda.

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Avoid Highly Processed Foods

If you want to lose weight on Saxenda, we recommend that you limit your processed foods. Processed foods are typically high in salt, sugar and fat - and don’t have many vitamins or minerals. In fact, a highly-processed diet is associated with weight gain. 

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For optimal results, we’d also recommend that you avoid: 

• Packaged baked goods (e.g boxes of brownies)
• Salty foods such as chips, fries and crisps 
• Processed sauces and dressings 
• Fast food 

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Instead, we recommend that you opt for foods that are minimally processed. Instead of opting for packaged muffins, why not bake your own? Or take it a step further and opt for a fresh fruit snack instead. 

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Avoid Foods High in Saturated Fat

For optimal results when taking Saxenda, we recommended lowering your intake of saturated fat. Some foods that are high in saturated fat include: 

• Cheese 
• Lard and butter
• Cream 
• Dark meat and red meat 
• Bacon and sausage
• Coconut oil and palm oil 

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Having too much saturated fat could increase the risk of health problems. Reducing your saturated fat intake could not only aid weight loss but help to reduce the risk of health problems such as heart disease. 

What Should I Eat While on Saxenda?

There is no official Saxenda diet plan- instead, you should develop a healthy relationship with food. This involves eating a healthy, balanced diet in order to aid body weight loss while taking Saxenda. 

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If you are unsure what to eat while taking Saxenda, our experts at Dr Franks can give you some helpful tips. For example, it can be beneficial to fill half of your plate with leafy greens and ensure you include protein in every meal. 

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Eating fish, chicken, beans, lentils and eggs can provide you with protein, and help to keep you full for longer. 

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Whole grains such as whole grain bread, whole grain pasta, and brown rice can also be helpful, providing vitamins, minerals, fibre and other nutrients. Foods rich in fibre can help to overcome constipation, which can be an unpleasant common side effect of Saxenda.

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How Can I Prevent an Upset Stomach While on Saxenda? 

Preventing an upset stomach while injecting Saxenda is important for your comfort and treatment effectiveness.

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When you start treatment, begin with a low dose of Saxenda and gradually increase it as your body gets used to the medication.

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This can reduce stomach discomfort. Your doctor will typically prescribe you a 0.6mg dose for your first week, and then increase it to 1.2mg in the second week. The dose should increase until the fifth week, by which, you may be prescribed the full dose of 3mg.  

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To reduce the risk of side effects, we recommend that you take Saxenda at the same time each day to establish a routine that your body can adapt to.

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Take Saxenda with a meal to reduce the chances of stomach upset. Ensure that your meal includes a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.

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If you do find yourself with an upset stomach, drink plenty of water - this can help soothe your stomach. Aim for at least 8 glasses a day. It can also be helpful to: 

• Eat bland, low-fat foods (e.g dry toast or crackers) 
• Steer clear of spicy foods
• Avoid sugary foods 
• Get fresh air 
• Don’t lie down after you eat 

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If you experience persistent stomach issues, consult your doctor or prescriber. They can provide guidance and adjust your treatment if needed.

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How Can I Get Started on Saxenda? 

If you’re looking to get started on Saxenda, be aware of the potential risks, and make sure you check whether you are eligible. Always be transparent with your healthcare provider about any medical conditions. ‍

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Saxenda could affect the blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes - so be sure to tell your doctor straight away if you experience low blood sugar while taking Saxenda. 

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Get started on Saxenda today - Saxenda has been proven safe and effective in clinical trials and can be an effective way to lose weight. 

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You may be eligible for our Saxenda treatment if you have a BMI of over 30 kg/m2, or a BMI higher than 27 kg/m2 with weight-related comorbidities. Begin your weight loss journey with Dr Franks Weight Loss Clinic.