Wegovy has rocketed in popularity recently, with sales of the weight loss medication increasing five-fold in 2023.
When taking weight loss medication, your diet can play a huge role in its effectiveness - and Wegovy is no exception.
So, what foods should you avoid on Wegovy? Why? And what are some of the best foods to eat on this weight loss medication? Find out the answer to these questions and more in this blog post.
Although no food is technically off-limits when taking Wegovy, it’s important to be mindful of your diet if you want to achieve the best results possible.
Steer clear of very high-calorie foods - although Wegovy can help you lose weight by allowing you to control your portions, eating unhealthy foods, high in calories, can prevent you from achieving a calorie deficit, which means you won’t lose weight. Opt for healthier, more nutritious foods instead that will help you feel satisfied without impacting your progress.
First of all, sugary and processed foods are often calorie-dense, but nutritionally poor. These foods can cause your blood sugar to spike. Wegovy helps to regulate your blood sugar levels, so eating high-sugar foods can make your attempts at getting to a healthier weight less effective.
Although Wegovy can help to suppress your appetite, sugary foods can counteract this effect. When you eat sugary foods, you’re less likely to feel satisfied - and may experience cravings. This can make it more difficult to stick to a healthy diet.
High-fat foods can exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects. They can increase the risk of nausea, stomach pain and bloating, so it’s best to steer clear and keep junk food to a minimum. High-fat foods can also make it more difficult to maintain a calorie deficit and slow down your weight loss progress.
If fatty foods make up a large portion of your diet, you may be missing out on essential nutrients too - so always eat fatty foods in moderation and stick to a balanced diet for optimal results. Some healthy fatty foods may include nuts, olive oil and avocados - so enjoy these in moderation!
For optimal results, we recommend limiting your caffeine intake. Steer clear of excess energy drinks, caffeinated beverages and coffee - although they can give you an energy boost, caffeine can lead to dehydration and disturb your sleep pattern.
Poor sleep is linked to weight gain - it can alter your endocannabinoid levels, affecting your appetite and brain’s reward system. This means you may be more likely to consume unhealthy foods in between meals.
You don’t need to cut out your morning coffee completely, just enjoy coffee and other caffeinated beverages in moderation.
Red meat is high in saturated fats - it can contribute to weight gain if you eat large amounts of it. It can also be high in calories, making it harder to maintain the calorie deficit you need to lose weight, ultimately counteracting the intended effects of Wegovy.
Interestingly one of the triggers that is seen in clinical practice is an intolerance that patients on Wegovy seem to develop to gluten-containing carbs such as bread, pizza or pasta.
Patients often report more bloating, heartburn, nausea, and “eggy” or “sulphur” burps following a meal with a higher amount of gluten-containing carbs. Carbohydrates in general have higher calorie density than protein and fiber – so reducing the relative consumption of these can be beneficial.
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Now you understand what foods it’s best to avoid, let’s explore some of the best foods to eat, from low-fat dairy to fruit and veg.
Getting your nutrients is a must along your weight loss journey, and low-fat dairy can provide essential nutrients such as calcium and protein. Opt for low-fat dairy products without the extra fat and calories found in full-fat options. Choose products such as:
One thing to be mindful of, however, is that when opting for “low fat” flavoured yoghurt, you may end up with a high-calorie content from the sugars added to the yoghurt. A plain yoghurt with some fruit for flavour would be a better option.
Complex carbohydrates can provide you with energy that is released slowly throughout the day - which means you can maintain steadier blood sugar levels. These slow-release carbs can help to curb the hunger between meals and prevent energy crashes.
The fibre in complex carbohydrates can also prevent side effects such as constipation, boosting your overall digestive health.
Add complex carbs into your diet such as:
Protein can make you feel fuller for longer and is the perfect food to eat to complement the effects of Wegovy. Eating sufficient protein can help to reduce your overall calorie intake and aid your weight loss efforts.
Lean proteins can also be easier for your body to digest than fatty meats, which can minimise potential GI side effects such as nausea and diarrhoea.
Opt for lean proteins such as:
Hydration is key, especially when it comes to weight loss. First of all, drinking water can help you feel full for longer, complementing the appetite-suppressing effects of Wegovy and helping you to reduce your daily calorie intake.
Staying hydrated can also reduce side effects such as headaches and dizziness, and can also flush out toxins.
Fibre can be beneficial, but when taking Wegovy, you may find it more difficult to digest high-fibre foods at first. Low-fibre fruit and veg can be easier on your digestive system - while still providing essential vitamins and minerals.
Some low-fibre fruit and veg to add to your diet include:
As you adjust to Wegovy, you can begin implementing more high-fibre foods into your diet. Aim for a combination of high and low-fibre foods to support your weight loss journey whilst getting the nutrients you need.
Here are some high-fibre fruits and veg to include in your diet:
First of all, there is no set calorie target - it all depends on factors such as your goals, health, sex, size and personal circumstances.
That being said, many people consume between 1200 and 1800 calories per day when taking Wegovy, which is easier to achieve due to its appetite-suppressing effects.
The important thing to remember is that the daily calorie consumption that is required for you to continue to progress in your weight loss journey will change as time goes by. At Dr Franks, our team of clinicians will guide you through this. Journaling can also be helpful in tracking calories and food consumption.
Calorie counting also isn’t completely necessary - but some people find it helpful to stay on track. To lose weight, you need to be in a calorie deficit - to burn more calories than you consume.
If you’re looking to start your Wegovy journey, you’re in the right place. At Dr Frank’s Weight Loss Clinic, we offer our Wegovy-based program starting at just £149 per month. You can expect positive results and lose up to 15% of your weight in the first year of taking it. Enquire today to get started!
Susan lost 5 Stone in just 12 months
“For the first time, losing weight has been both easy and successful in my life.”
Cadi lost 3 Stone in just 12 months
“If you're aiming to lose weight or manage polycystic ovaries, go for this program. It's undoubtedly the best decision.”
Ethan lost 5 Stone in just 5 months
“I’ve never felt so comfortable in my own skin. It's a newfound sense of confidence and well-being that has positively impacted every aspect of my life.”
Dimitra lost 4 Stone in just 8 months
“I cannot recommend this programme enough; it truly works! It's the sole solution that has been effective after my long struggle.”
Lauren lost 5 Stone in just 8 months
“I would advise anyone considering this programme that it's a transformative experience. It has allowed me to embrace life and fully enjoy my twenties.”
Susan lost 5 Stone in just 12 months
“For the first time, losing weight has been both easy and successful in my life.”
Cadi lost 3 Stone in just 12 months
“If you're aiming to lose weight or manage polycystic ovaries, go for this program. It's undoubtedly the best decision.”
Ethan lost 5 Stone in just 5 months
“I’ve never felt so comfortable in my own skin. It's a newfound sense of confidence and well-being that has positively impacted every aspect of my life.”
Dimitra lost 4 Stone in just 8 months
“I cannot recommend this programme enough; it truly works! It's the sole solution that has been effective after my long struggle.”
Lauren lost 5 Stone in just 8 months
“I would advise anyone considering this programme that it's a transformative experience. It has allowed me to embrace life and fully enjoy my twenties.”
Susan lost 5 Stone in just 12 months
“For the first time, losing weight has been both easy and successful in my life.”
Cadi lost 3 Stone in just 12 months
“If you're aiming to lose weight or manage polycystic ovaries, go for this program. It's undoubtedly the best decision.”
Ethan lost 5 Stone in just 5 months
“I’ve never felt so comfortable in my own skin. It's a newfound sense of confidence and well-being that has positively impacted every aspect of my life.”
Dimitra lost 4 Stone in just 8 months
“I cannot recommend this programme enough; it truly works! It's the sole solution that has been effective after my long struggle.”
Lauren lost 5 Stone in just 8 months
“I would advise anyone considering this programme that it's a transformative experience. It has allowed me to embrace life and fully enjoy my twenties.”