GLP-1 Medications and Heart Health: What You Should Know About Nutrition

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medications help manage type 2 diabetes and can also support weight loss. Some versions of these medications have also been shown to benefit heart health, especially in people with diabetes or those at high risk of cardiovascular disease. While much of the focus is on blood sugar and weight, nutrition is another important part of the picture often missed.

These medications lower appetite and slow digestion, which can not only change how much a person eats but can also affect how they feel about food. Over time, taking a GLP-1 can make it harder for the body to get the nutrients it needs to keep the heart and blood vessels healthy.

What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 medications work like a hormone in the body that helps manage blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. These medications:

• Trigger the release of insulin, which helps move sugar from the blood into cells

• Reduce the amount of sugar produced by the liver

• Slow stomach emptying

• Increase feelings of fullness after eating

These effects can improve blood sugar control and may lead to weight loss. Most GLP-1s are injections, though some oral options are available. Commonly known medications include semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy® [injections] and Rybelsus® [oral]), tirzepatide (Mounjaro®, Zepbound®), liraglutide (Victoza®, Saxenda®), and dulaglutide (Trulicity®).

Heart and Vascular Benefits of GLP-1s

Certain GLP-1 medications provide benefits beyond blood sugar control. In clinical trials, some GLP-1s have been linked to a lower risk of heart attack, stroke, and death from cardiovascular causes. These findings have led major health organizations to recommend the use of GLP-1s in people with diabetes and heart disease, or those at high risk for cardiovascular disease. These medications may further support heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, reducing inflammation, and slowing plaque buildup.

The strongest heart-related benefits have been observed with injectable semaglutide, liraglutide, and most recently, tirzepatide (sold as Mounjaro®). In a major study comparing Mounjaro® to Trulicity®, both helped lower the risk of heart-related events in people with type 2 diabetes and heart disease. This adds to growing evidence that GLP-1s may offer protection beyond blood sugar control—especially for those at risk of heart disease.*

Other medications, such as dulaglutide and albiglutide, have shown more modest benefits. Some—like lixisenatide and extended-release exenatide—have not shown a clear effect in major studies. Emerging research also suggests possible heart benefits for people with obesity, even without diabetes, though more studies are needed.

How Eating Less on GLP-1s Can Affect Your Nutrition

By reducing appetite and delaying digestion,  using GLP-1s  typically results in eating smaller portions, skipping meals, or avoiding foods that no longer sound appealing. Rich or greasy meals, for example, may cause nausea or discomfort. But even some healthy foods—like meat, vegetables, or high-fiber options—can become harder to tolerate. One reason is that slower digestion can make these foods feel too heavy or filling, even in small amounts. These changes in eating behavior can make it harder to get necessary nutrients.

Eating less over time can increase the risk of not getting enough key vitamins and minerals, including protein, iron, vitamin B12, and the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. 

Some of these deficiencies are already common in people living with obesity. GLP-1 medications can make nutrient gaps more likely if meals are smaller and less balanced. If this pattern continues, it can raise the risk for more serious problems like malnutrition or sarcopenia (loss of muscle), both of which are tied to worse heart and metabolic health—especially for those with existing cardiovascular disease.

Nutrients That Support Cardiovascular Health

Many of the same nutrients at risk for deficiency also play a key role in heart and blood vessel health. Here’s how they support your cardiovascular system:

• Vitamin B12 helps your body produce red blood cells. It also helps regulate homocysteine, a natural compound that may raise the risk of heart disease when levels get too high.

• Iron supports the transportation of oxygen throughout the body. Even mild deficiencies can lead to fatigue and lower energy levels.

• Magnesium and potassium help regulate blood pressure and support a steady heart rhythm. Low levels may increase the risk of irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias).

• Vitamin D helps support healthy blood vessels and may help regulate blood pressure. Low levels have been linked to a higher risk of stiff arteries, heart disease, and stroke.

• Vitamin K helps your blood form clots to stop bleeding when needed. It may also support artery health by activating proteins that help prevent calcium buildup, though more research is needed to confirm this effect in people.

• Protein helps maintain muscle mass, supports tissue repair after exercise or illness, and plays a key role in regulating metabolism.

What You Can Do to Eat Balanced Meals If You Take a GLP-1

Even with less of an appetite, your body still needs a steady supply of nutrients to stay strong. These simple strategies can help you make the most of each meal and support your overall health.

• Choose nutrient-dense foods. Pick foods that offer more nutrition per serving. Vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts, dairy, whole grains, and lean proteins (chicken, fish, tofu, eggs) provide the vitamins and minerals your body needs to stay strong.

• Include protein in every meal. Protein helps protect your muscles and supports your metabolism. Good sources include eggs, yogurt, beans, fish, chicken, and tofu.

• Don’t skip meals. Even if you're not very hungry, it's important to eat small meals or snacks to keep up your energy and get the nutrients you need.

• Stay hydrated. You might not feel thirsty, but your body still needs plenty of water—especially when you’re eating less.

• Get specialized support if you need it. A dietitian can help you build meals that fit your goals, appetite, and medical needs. 

• Talk with your clinician. They may recommend a multivitamin or specific supplements based on your intake and lab results.

Nutrition plays a key role in how your body responds to medication.Taking a few simple steps to support healthy eating can help you stay strong, protect your heart, and get the most out of your treatment.

When to Talk to Your Clinician

Bring up nutrition at your regular visits, especially if you’ve noticed appetite changes, skipped meals, or are using supplements. Let your clinician know if you’re experiencing symptoms that may be linked to nutrient issues, such as:

• Fatigue or low energy

• Tingling in your hands or feet

• Hair loss

• Muscle weakness or loss

Taking a GLP-1 medication works best when paired with good nutrition. A few small changes to what and how you eat can go a long way in helping you feel your best and protect your heart in the process.

*Based on topline results announced by Lilly in July 2025. Full peer-reviewed data from the SURPASS-CVOT trial is expected after presentation at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) Annual Meeting in September 2025.

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