Study: Need for Personalized Nutrition Protocols for People on GLP-1 Medications

New research underscores the importance of individualized fasting and nutrition plans to ensure patient safety and optimal surgical outcomes

A study led by UTHealth Houston has revealed critical insights into the pre-operative preparation of people taking GLP-1 receptor agonists. The study found that over half of these patients had significant gastric contents before undergoing surgery, despite adhering to standard pre-operative fasting guidelines. This discovery emphasizes the urgent need for personalized nutrition and fasting protocols for patients on GLP-1 medications.

Kylie Bensley, a registered dietitian and founder of Sulinu Nutrition , has been at the forefront of addressing these nutritional needs. Bensley underscores the critical role individualized nutrition plans play in ensuring patient safety and optimal health outcomes.

“This study brings to light a crucial aspect of patient care that has often been overlooked,” Bensley states. “Those using a GLP-1 are on a hypocaloric diet that can potentially lead to nutrient depletion. Nutrient depletion creates enormous challenges during the postoperative healing process: slow recovery, reopened wounds, infections. Because the human body requires an excess of calories following surgery, these medications can have an adverse effect and actually create malnutrition, which hinders healing.”

The implications of these findings are significant for fitness professionals, who often work closely with clients on weight loss medications. With the increasing popularity of GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight loss, fitness professionals need to be aware of the unique risks associated with these medications. Understanding how GLP-1s can slow gastric emptying and impact nutrient absorption is crucial for providing comprehensive care and informed recommendations.

“Standard fasting protocols may not be adequate for individuals on GLP-1s. As healthcare providers, we must recognize the unique needs of these patients and tailor our pre-operative instructions to ensure their safety,” continues Bensley.

This call to action is vital for fitness professionals who aim to improve overall health and wellness, including helping to prepare clients for potential surgical procedures through educated programming. They can play a pivotal role in supporting their clients through informed guidance on nutrition, within scope of practice. By doing so, people can be better protected from potential complications, leading to improved surgical outcomes.

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