From the Guidelines
People on Ozempic (semaglutide) should focus on eating nutrient-dense, whole foods with an emphasis on lean proteins, non-starchy vegetables, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates in moderate portions. According to the most recent and highest quality study 1, there is no single ideal dietary distribution of calories among carbohydrates, fats, and proteins for people with diabetes, and macronutrient distribution should be individualized. The study recommends carbohydrate intake from vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, and dairy products, with an emphasis on foods higher in fiber and lower in glycemic load.
Some key points to consider when creating a meal plan for someone on Ozempic include:
- Eating lean proteins like chicken, fish, eggs, tofu, and legumes to help maintain muscle mass while feeling satisfied longer
- Consuming non-starchy vegetables such as leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, and bell peppers to provide essential nutrients with minimal calories
- Incorporating healthy fats from avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil to support hormone function and nutrient absorption
- Eating complex carbohydrates like whole grains, sweet potatoes, and beans in moderation
- Staying well-hydrated and eating smaller, more frequent meals to manage potential gastrointestinal side effects of Ozempic
- Avoiding high-sugar, processed foods, excessive alcohol, and very fatty meals to minimize digestive discomfort that sometimes occurs with this medication.
It's also important to note that individualized meal planning should include optimization of food choices to meet recommended daily allowance (RDA)/dietary reference intake (DRI) for all micronutrients, as stated in the study 1. Additionally, the study 1 recommends establishing a goal of weight reduction, or at least weight maintenance, and encourages patients to eat healthy foods that are consistent with the prevailing population-wide dietary recommendations and with an individual’s preferences and culture.
Overall, the goal is to create a personalized meal plan that complements Ozempic's mechanism of action, which slows gastric emptying and reduces appetite, helping to maximize weight loss results while ensuring adequate nutrition.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Dietary Recommendations for Ozempic (Semaglutide) Users
There is no direct evidence in the provided studies regarding specific dietary recommendations for individuals taking Ozempic (semaglutide). However, the studies suggest that semaglutide can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
Food Choices to Minimize Gastrointestinal Side Effects
To minimize gastrointestinal side effects, individuals taking semaglutide may consider the following food choices:
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day
- Avoiding spicy or fatty foods that can irritate the stomach
- Incorporating bland foods such as crackers, toast, or plain rice
- Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water
General Dietary Advice for Type 2 Diabetes Management
While there is no specific dietary advice for Ozempic users, the following general dietary recommendations may be beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes:
- Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources
- Limiting intake of sugary drinks, refined carbohydrates, and saturated fats
- Choosing foods that are low in sodium and added sugars
It is essential to note that these are general recommendations, and individual dietary needs may vary. Individuals taking semaglutide should consult with their healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to develop a personalized dietary plan that meets their specific needs and health goals.