Embarking on a semaglutide or tirzepatide weight loss program can transform your approach to daily routines and habits. At our Joplin medspa, we work closely with our patients to incorporate healthy lifestyle habits that complement medical weight loss, as well as to manage any side effects effectively. Below, we outline the unique considerations you may have on a typical day in our weight loss program.
Morning: Hydrate and eat a protein-rich meal
Start your day with a glass of water to kickstart your metabolism and keep you hydrated. A balanced breakfast rich in protein and fiber helps maintain energy levels; avoid high-sugar foods, which could spike your blood sugar.
Mid-Morning: Eat a small snack
As the weight loss injections begin to work over in the first few weeks, you might notice changes in your appetite; smaller, more frequent meals can help manage hunger effectively, without making you feel uncomfortably full.
Tips for Managing Nausea
Some patients experience side effects like nausea or digestive issues when taking semaglutide or tirzepatide. To help manage these side effects, we recommend a few simple tips:
- Avoid eating 2 hours before and after your weekly injection
- Choose high-fiber foods that promote digestion on the day of injections
- Eat smaller portions
- Incorporate high-fiber and protein-rich foods every day, as these are more filling and can help regulate your blood sugar levels
- Consider staying upright after meals
- Avoid foods that can trigger discomfort, such as fried or spicy foods
Lunch/Afternoon: Eat something healthy & consider taking a walk
A light, nutrient-dense lunch should be your goal. Opt for vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Semaglutide and tirzepatide weight loss injections may reduce your appetite, so listen to your body and avoid overeating. Remember to stay hydrated and avoid sugary drinks that could counteract your progress.
We also recommend that patients undergoing weight loss injections weave in activities like walking into their daily routine, so choose a time of day that’s convenient for you to get active. In the afternoon, light physical activity like walking or stretching can aid digestion and improve your mood—but any movement is beneficial!
Evening meal: Eat early & get your vegetables
If you haven’t already eaten your vegetables and lean proteins, take time to prepare a healthy, nutrient-dense dinner. Aim to start early, as it’s best to avoid heavy or late-night eating, which can disrupt your sleep and digestion.
Nighttime: Wind down for a good night’s sleep
Reflect on your daily achievements, prepare for the next day, and make sure you’re ready to stick to your routine. Especially if you have a busy schedule, this is a good time to plan meals for the next day so you can be prepared to get the nutrition and hydration you need!
We also recommend that you consider establishing a calming nighttime routine to help you wind down and get a restful night’s sleep, as quality sleep is essential for overall health and effective weight loss.
Once a week: Injections & weigh-in at home or at the clinic
Some patients choose to come in weekly for their injections, while others perform their injections themselves at home with monthly (or as-needed) check-ins at the clinic with Andrea. Either way, choose a consistent time each week for your semaglutide injection—this routine helps maintain stable levels of the medication in your body.
It’s best to inject on an empty stomach to minimize nausea. Consider planning meals around your injection time, allowing about 2 hours before and after eating. Hydration is key, too, so keep drinking water, and stick to foods that are easy on your stomach to manage any digestive discomfort.
You will also want to weigh yourself once a week to track your weight loss progress. For the most accurate read, we recommend stepping on the scale first thing in the morning, but we can also track your progress when you visit the clinic once a week.
Weekly, monthly, or as needed: Meet with Andrea at Maningas Wellness + Injectables
At your regular check-ins with our nurse, Andrea, we monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your program based on how you are feeling and progressing toward your goals.
Attending these appointments is key to achieving your weight loss goals safely and effectively!
Curious about our weight loss injections program? We’d love to talk! Call 417-437-0303 to learn more and get started today.