GLP-1 Weight-Loss Medicines Explained — and Why Real Food Is Still the Key to Lasting Results.

Zita Dixon
Nov 1
5 min read

Curious about GLP-1 medicines? Learn how personalised nutrition and Metabolic Balance® can help you lose weight safely, nourish your body, and build confidence — with or without medication.

The Rise of GLP-1 Weight-Loss Medicines

You’ve heard the buzz — GLP-1 weight-loss medicines are everywhere. Some examples of these medications are: Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda, and Zepbound.

Maybe you’ve thought, “That’s the answer for me.”

These medicines work by mimicking a natural gut hormone (GLP-1) that helps regulate blood sugar, slow digestion, and reduce appetite. Some newer versions also act on GIP receptors, giving an even stronger effect. They’re approved for managing obesity and type 2 diabetes, and for many people they can lead to significant weight loss — often 10–20% of body weight.

But here’s what many people don’t realise: while these medicines can reduce your appetite, they don’t teach you how to eat well — and that’s where problems can begin. What happens when you stop taking them and still do not know what and how to eat to maintain your health and weight loss.

When Appetite Suppression Backfires

Let me share two real-life stories (names changed for privacy).

💊 Trudy’s Story — Continuing on the GLP-1 Medicine

Trudy had been using a GLP-1 weight-loss medicine for months before coming to see me. It worked beautifully at first — her appetite disappeared and the kilos magically dropped fast. But over time, her progress stalled. She was tired, foggy, and forgetting to eat. When she did, it was whatever was easiest — toast, crackers, takeaway. Her bowels slowed to a crawl, leaving her bloated and uncomfortable.

When we started her personalised Metabolic Balance® plan, she chose to stay on her medication but wanted to learn how to eat again. Within weeks, her digestion improved, her energy lifted, and her weight began moving again. Her bowels were finally regular, and she told me, “I can’t believe how much better I feel now that I’m actually eating real food again.”

🌿 Alice’s Story — Coming Off the Medicine

Alice had taken a GLP-1 weight-loss medicine for several months. It worked at first, but then the results stopped. Her appetite was gone, and with it went her energy, motivation, and spark. She said she “didn’t even recognise herself anymore.” Her skin and hair had lost their glow, she felt constantly tired, and she didn’t realise how unwell she was until she stopped the medication.

Worried about how she’d lose weight without it, Alice joined my Metabolic Balance® program. To her surprise, results came quickly. The best part? She felt amazing again. Her brain fog cleared, her workouts felt good, and her confidence returned. She told me, “It’s not just the weight — I actually feel like me again.” And she now understands how to continue nourishing her body to maintain the weight loss and clarity.

The Downside of Eating Less Without Nourishing More

When your appetite disappears, so does your intake of the nutrients your body depends on — protein, fibre, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Without these, your body can’t maintain muscle, hormones, or energy. That’s why so many people experience side effects like fatigue, constipation, dry skin, looking pale and unwell or brain fog while using GLP-1 medicines.

These medicines can help, but they need to be paired with nourishment — not starvation.

Where Metabolic Balance® Comes In

Metabolic Balance® is a science-based, personalised nutrition program created from your own blood values. It’s designed to support your metabolism, balance your hormones, and help your body function at its best — whether you’re using a GLP-1 medicine or not.

Here’s how it complements GLP-1 medicines beautifully:

Protects Your Nutrition During Appetite Loss When you’re eating less, the food you do eat needs to count. Metabolic Balance ensures you get enough protein, fibre, and micronutrients to keep energy, skin, and muscle strong — even on smaller portions.
Supports Digestion and Reduces Side Effects Whole foods and balanced meals help ease nausea, constipation, and bloating — common side effects of GLP-1s.
Builds Sustainable Habits Medicines aren’t a forever fix. Metabolic Balance teaches you how to eat so you can keep the results once medication stops.
Optimises Long-Term Metabolic Health Real food helps improve blood sugar balance, energy, and sleep — all key to maintaining a healthy metabolism.
Gives You a Plan, Not Just a Prescription Most people start medication with little guidance on food. Metabolic Balance fills that gap with a personalised roadmap that nourishes your body and mind.

So — Should You Use Both?

Maybe. Maybe not. Here’s my take:

If you’re considering a GLP-1 weight-loss medicine, start with Metabolic Balance first. Build your foundation. You might find that you don't need it after all.
If you’re already using one and noticing fatigue, side effects, or a plateau — Metabolic Balance can help you feel well again while continuing to lose.
If you’re combining both, let nutrition lead the way.
My personal preference is always nutrition first. Its the base of a happy, healthy body.

GLP-1 medicines suppress appetite. Metabolic Balance teaches you what and how to eat. Together, they can create a path that helps you lose weight, keep it off, and feel truly well.

Ready to Feel That Way Too?

I have a few options for you to to choose your own journey.

Grab my free 3-Day Meal Plan for Busy Mums here: BUSY MUM’S MEAL PLAN FOR KICKSTARTING HEALTHY WEIGHT LOSS and see how delicious structured real food can be.

Or try my low-cost Metabolism Makeover program: 2- Week Metabolism Makeover — your first taste of a balanced, energising lifestyle that lasts. See what Metabolic Balance looks and feels like.

And if you’d like personal support? Book a free clarity call and find out whether Metabolic Balance — or a combined approach — is your best next step. 💛

🍽 Coming Soon — The Zest Nutrition Meal Plan Membership

If you’ve ever wished someone could just tell you what to cook and make healthy eating feel easy, you’ll love what’s coming next!

I’m launching my brand-new Meal Plan Membership in November, created especially for busy women who want real-food meals that support weight loss, energy, and balance — without spending hours in the kitchen.

Only $27 a month as the special opening price. You will keep the same price, even when prices increase.

Each month, you’ll get:

✅ Done-for-you meal plans and shopping lists

✅ Delicious, easy to prepare, family-friendly recipes that align with healthy eating

✅ Nutrition tips and useful recourses to make healthy feel simple

✅ And a supportive space to help you stay consistent

We’re currently gathering expressions of interest, we have enough people interested already, I am just building it out. Jump on the waitlist to be the first to know when the doors officially open!

💛 Join the waitlist now and you’ll receive an exclusive Waitlist-Only Bonus when we launch — just my little thank-you for being one of the first to join.

You can add your name to the waitlist here and be the first to know when doors open.

⚖️ Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. GLP-1 medicines are prescription-only treatments and should only be used under the guidance of a qualified medical practitioner. Metabolic Balance® is a nutrition and lifestyle program designed to complement medical care, not replace it. Always speak with your GP or healthcare provider before making changes to your medication, diet, or treatment plan.