What To Eat as a Diabetic on GLP-1 Medications

Key Takeaways

  • Prioritize protein to maintain muscle and manage appetite
  • Choose low-glycemic carbs to avoid blood sugar spikes
  • Stay hydrated with water or herbal teas like Turmeric Ginger Tonic Tea
  • Opt for small, frequent meals to ease digestion
  • Use diabetic-friendly snacks like AmBari's Diabetic Protein Shakes


1. Why Protein is Non-Negotiable on GLP-1 Meds

GLP-1 medications slow digestion, which can reduce appetite. But skippin' protein risks muscle loss and unstable blood sugar. Aim for 20-30g per meal.

Best Protein Sources:

High-protein meal ideas


2. Low-Glycemic Carbs: Your New Best Friend

Best Choices Avoid
Quinoa White bread
Berries Sugary cereals
Broccoli Pastries


Low glycemic fruits


3. Hydration Hacks for Stomach Comfort

What to Drink:

Herbal tea recipes


4. Sample Day of Meals

7-day meal plan


5. Handling Side Effects Like a Pro

  • Nausea: Ginger tea or Jump Start Energy Drink
  • Constipation: Soluble fiber (oats, apples)
  • Fullness: Eat slowly, chew thoroughly

Energy drink mix


6. FAQs

Q: Can I drink alcohol?
A: Limit it. Alcohol lowers blood sugar and may worsen nausea.

Q: What if I'm not hungry?
A: Prioritize protein shakes like 15g Protein Shakes Variety Pack

Protein shake variety pack

Q: How do I prevent hypoglycemia?
A: Test blood sugar regularly (guide here) and carry fast-acting carbs

Q: Are protein bars safe?
A: Choose ones under 15g net carbs, like AmBari's Diabetic Bars





Author: Carrie H.


Carrie is a passionate health and nutrition writer who transforms complex medical research into accessible, evidence-based content to empower readers to make informed choices about their wellbeing. With a background in science and a dedication to helping others live healthier lives, she provides thoughtful analysis of the latest studies and practical, actionable advice readers can apply to their own lives.


Reviewed By: Dr. Kevin Huffman


Dr. Huffman is an accomplished board-certified bariatric physician with extensive clinical experience and expertise in treating obesity. He has trained countless healthcare providers and founded American Bariatric Consultants to develop highly sought-after protocols, training materials and continuing education used widely by medical societies, hospitals and physicians. Dr. Huffman's impact reaches far beyond direct patient care, as he actively prepares the next generation of physicians to achieve board certification in bariatrics, thereby exponentially expanding access to this vital medical treatment.

Weight Loss & Nutrition Journal

More information on medical weight loss diets such as diabetic and bariatric diets.

What To Eat as a Diabetic on GLP-1 Medications
What To Eat as a Diabetic on GLP-1 Medications
March 4, 2025

What To Eat as a Diabetic on GLP-1 Medications

Complete Guide to VSG Gastric Sleeve Diet: Before and After Surgery
VSG Gastric Sleeve Diet
January 21, 2025

Complete Guide to VSG Gastric Sleeve Diet: Before and After Surgery

Ozempic vs. Bariatric Surgery: A Complete Cost-Benefit Analysis (2025)
Ozempic vs Bariatric Surgery Comparison
November 7, 2024

Ozempic vs. Bariatric Surgery: A Complete Cost-Benefit Analysis (2025)

How To Make Protein Shakes at Home
How To Make Protein Shakes
October 17, 2024

How To Make Protein Shakes at Home

The Best Plant-Based Meal Replacement Shakes
the best plant based meal replacement protein shakes
October 14, 2024

The Best Plant-Based Meal Replacement Shakes

Bariatric Meals: Planning, Recipes, & Shopping for Your Bariatric Meal
Bariatric Meals: Planning, Recipes, & Shopping for Your Bariatric Meal
September 30, 2024

Bariatric Meals: Planning, Recipes, & Shopping for Your Bariatric Meal

Top 10 Protein-Packed Snacks for Bariatric Patients
Top 10 High Protein Bariatric Snacks
September 21, 2024

Top 10 Protein-Packed Snacks for Bariatric Patients

The Best Low-Sugar Snacks for Bariatric Patients
The Best Low Sugar Snacks for Bariatric Patients
September 10, 2024

The Best Low-Sugar Snacks for Bariatric Patients

Helpful Guide to Meeting Protein Needs After Bariatric Surgery
Meeting Protein Needs After Bariatric Surgery
August 6, 2024

Helpful Guide to Meeting Protein Needs After Bariatric Surgery

Normal Blood Sugar Levels: Understanding Your Glucose Readings
Normal, Diabetes, & Pre-Diabetes Blood Sugar Levels Chart
August 6, 2024

Normal Blood Sugar Levels: Understanding Your Glucose Readings