How Mounjaro Works For Weight Loss

Mounjaro®, formulated from the active ingredient tirzepatide, has made waves as a breakthrough in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus, with its significant benefits extending into weight management (1). This innovative medication, administered once weekly via subcutaneous injection, operates as a GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist (2). It enhances insulin secretion, reduces glucagon levels, and delays gastric emptying – a synergistic approach that aids in managing blood glucose levels and supporting weight reduction efforts (1,2,3).

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Nutritional Guidelines to Support Mounjaro® Treatment

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While Mounjaro® can facilitate weight loss and improve glycemic control, optimizing nutritional intake is crucial to maximize the medication's benefits and ensure overall health. Here are some general guidelines:

• Maintain a Balanced Diet: Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats into your meals. Avoid empty calories in the form of sugary beverages, hearty dressings or dips, and highly processed foods.

• Monitor Portion Sizes: Given Mounjaro's effect on gastric emptying, smaller, more frequent meals may be more comfortable and effective (4).

• Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is key, especially if you are experiencing any gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea or constipation (4).

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The Best Foods to Eat While Taking Mounjaro

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High-Fiber Foods

High-fiber foods are pivotal in helping you feel full, which can help maximize weight loss efforts, especially given Mounjaro’s appetite-suppressing effects.  Additionally, fiber aids in regulating blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream (5). Studies have even shown that dietary fiber helps optimize blood pressure and reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular disease (5). A diet rich in high-fiber foods also supports digestive health by reducing the likelihood of constipation, which can be a side effect of Mounjaro® (3,4,5). Incorporating a variety of high-fiber foods into your diet ensures that you not only leverage the weight loss and blood glucose management benefits of Mounjaro® but also maintain a healthy digestive system. 

• Whole Grains: Quinoa, barley, and oats are packed with fiber but also can contribute to a feeling of fullness and help with weight management (6). 

• Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas provide protein and fiber, supporting digestive health and blood sugar stabilization (6). 

Lean Proteins

Incorporating lean proteins into your diet while on Mounjaro® is quintessential for several reasons. High-protein foods are crucial for preserving muscle mass during weight loss, a critical aspect that aids in maintaining a healthy metabolism (7,8). Since Mounjaro® promotes weight reduction through appetite suppression, a sufficient protein intake is important for maintaining muscle mass despite a lower overall energy intake. Additionally, proteins play a significant role in satiety; they help you feel full longer, which can be beneficial in managing hunger cues and reducing overall caloric intake (7). 

• Chicken: For a lean source of protein, opt for skinless, grilled, or baked chicken breasts. They can be eaten with a vegetable side or topped over your favorite salad (8).

• Fish: Salmon, trout, and mackerel are high in protein and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart health (8). 

• Plant-Based: Beans, legumes, and nut butter are valuable plant-based protein options that can be used in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to smoothies (8). 

Low-Glycemic Fruits

Low-glycemic fruits offer an advantage to those looking to optimize their health as they’re shown to have less of an impact on blood sugar levels, which may be protective against diabetes (9). Fruits with a lower glycemic index support a slower release of glucose into the bloodstream, preventing sudden spikes that can disrupt glycemic control (9). This steady release aids in maintaining balanced energy levels and reducing cravings, contributing to more effective weight management strategies. Such fruits, including strawberries, oranges, peaches, and grapefruit, offer nutritional benefits and provide antioxidants and essential vitamins, ensuring a well-rounded approach to health and well-being while on this treatment (10).

Healthy Fats

Healthy fats contribute to the feeling of being full after eating. This is especially important given Mounjaro's appetite-suppressing effects, as it ensures that you remain satisfied for longer, potentially reducing the likelihood of overeating. Furthermore, these fats are essential for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins – vitamins A, D, E, and K – ensuring that your body receives the vital nutrients necessary for optimal function (11). Foods rich in healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, not only enhance the flavor and enjoyment of meals but also provide a steady energy source necessary for the body's daily functions and overall well-being during weight management and glucose control with Mounjaro®.

• Avocados: Full of monounsaturated fats, potassium, and fiber, avocados are a great addition to salads, sandwiches, bowls, wraps, and more (12). 

• Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, chia seeds, and flaxseeds contain beneficial fats, protein, and fiber. They're excellent for adding crunch and nutrients to meals or as snacks (6,8,11).

• Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat ideal for cooking or dressing salads (11).

Incorporating these foods into your diet while on Mounjaro® can help support your weight loss goals and contribute to your overall well-being. Remember, everyone's body is different, so it's essential to listen to your own needs and pSources. Consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice tailored to your health objectives.

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Foods and Beverages to Avoid or Limit

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• High-Sugar Items: Sweets and sugary beverages can counteract Mounjaro's blood glucose-lowering effects and make it more difficult to lose stubborn fat (4).

• Processed and High-Fat Foods: These can disrupt your weight loss goals and negatively impact cardiovascular health.

• Alcohol: It's advisable to limit alcohol consumption due to its calorie density and potential to inhibit weight loss efforts (4). 

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Kickstart Your Journey With Mochi Health

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To fully harness the power of Mounjaro® and personalize your approach to weight loss, consider joining Mochi Health. Our comprehensive obesity medicine practice offers 1-on-1 provider support from licensed physicians, 24/7 customer support, and direct provider messaging. Medications are delivered directly to your door, making your weight loss journey as convenient as it is effective.

Take the first step towards a healthier you by learning more about Mochi Health and taking a short quiz to find out if you're eligible for our weight loss program. Mochi Health is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you achieve and maintain your health goals.

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This post was written by our team of health writers for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for personalized guidance regarding your health. Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, and Zepbound® and their delivery device are registered trademarks. Mochi Health is a telehealth clinic that offers prescriptions for these products by medical necessity only as determined by a licensed health provider.

Sources

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2. Willard, F. S., Douros, J. D., Gabe, M. B., Showalter, A. D., Wainscott, D. B., Suter, T. M., Capozzi, M. E., van der Velden, W. J., Stutsman, C., Cardona, G. R., Urva, S., Emmerson, P. J., Holst, J. J., D'Alessio, D. A., Coghlan, M. P., Rosenkilde, M. M., Campbell, J. E., & Sloop, K. W. (2020). Tirzepatide is an imbalanced and biased dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist. JCI insight, 5(17), e140532. https://europepmc.org/article/pmc/pmc7526454

3. Karrar HR, Nouh MI, Nouh YI, Nouh MI, Khan Alhindi AS, Hemeq YH, Aljameeli AM, Aljuaid JA, Alzahrani SJ, Alsatami AA, Alkredees MA, Almuqati AO, Abanmi SN, Alshehri AM. Tirzepatide-Induced Gastrointestinal Manifestations: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cureus. 2023 Sep 27;15(9):e46091. doi: 10.7759/cureus.46091. https://www.cureus.com/articles/170540#!/authors

4. Gorgojo-Martínez, J. J., Mezquita-Raya, P., Carretero-Gómez, J., Castro, A., Cebrián-Cuenca, A., de Torres-Sánchez, A., García-de-Lucas, M. D., Núñez, J., Obaya, J. C., Soler, M. J., Górriz, J. L., & Rubio-Herrera, M. Á. (2022). Clinical Recommendations to Manage Gastrointestinal Adverse Events in Patients Treated with Glp-1 Receptor Agonists: A Multidisciplinary Expert Consensus. Journal of clinical medicine, 12(1), 145. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12010145

5. Anderson, J. W., Baird, P., Davis, R. H., Jr, Ferreri, S., Knudtson, M., Koraym, A., Waters, V., & Williams, C. L. (2009). Health benefits of dietary fiber. Nutrition reviews, 67(4), 188–205. https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article/67/4/188/1901012?login=false

6. Akbar A, Shreenath AP. High Fiber Diet. [Updated 2023 May 1]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559033/

7. Pesta, D. H., & Samuel, V. T. (2014). A high-protein diet for reducing body fat: mechanisms and possible caveats. Nutrition & metabolism, 11(1), 53. https://doi.org/10.1186/1743-7075-11-53

8. Cleveland Clinic. (2024, April 30). Plate debate: What are the best and worst sources of protein? https://health.clevelandclinic.org/best-and-worst-sources-of-protein 

9. Björck, I., Liljeberg, H., & Ostman, E. (2000). Low glycaemic-index foods. The British journal of nutrition, 83 Suppl 1, S149–S155. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0007114500001094

10.  Foster-Powell, K., & Miller, J. B. (1995). International tables of glycemic index. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 62(4), 871S–890S. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/62.4.871S

11. National Research Council (US) Committee on Diet and Health. Diet and Health: Implications for Reducing Chronic Disease Risk. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 1989. 11, Fat-Soluble Vitamins.  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK218749/‍

12. Dreher, M. L., & Davenport, A. J. (2013). Hass avocado composition and potential health effects. Critical reviews in food science and nutrition, 53(7), 738–750. https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2011.556759