Jane Aherne is the first Registered Associate Nutritionist (ANutr) to join TIC Health! Jane has worked in renowned functional and clinical nutrition settings, including Steve Grant Health, IVF Matters, The Apex Practice, and Perfect Balance Clinic, where she has helped countless clients achieve their health and wellness goals.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions about your health or starting any new treatments.
GLP‑1 Medications and Women’s Hormones - Why Nutrition Support Is Essential
GLP 1 medications like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) are showing real promise for women facing
excess weight and hormonal imbalances. Clinical trials confirm these therapies can significantly
improve weight, insulin resistance, and hormone profiles—especially in women with PCOS.
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But here’s a crucial point: Nowhere in the science does it say that medication alone is enough. Without tailored nutritional support, women risk nutrient deficiencies, disrupted hormone production, and unwanted side effects.
What the Research Shows
1 PCOS & Hormonal Improvements
Randomised trials have found GLP 1 RAs reduce BMI, waist circumference, triglycerides, and total testosterone in women with PCOS—leading to improved insulin sensitivity and, in many cases, restored menstrual regularity. ScienceDirect + PubMed
A recent meta analysis also showed significant reductions in BMI, blood glucose, and HOMA IR, with favourable changes in hormone levels such as testosterone and SHBG. ClinicalTrials + Nature + Obstetrics & Gynecology
2 LH & Ovulation Signals
In animal studies, GLP 1 RAs boosted luteinizing hormone (LH) pulses during the pre-ovulation phase, indicating a direct influence on reproductive hormone dynamics. ec.bioscientifica.com
3 Sex-Specific Effects
Women have shown stronger benefits from GLP 1 RA therapy than men in some metabolic risk reductions—a sign that female physiology responds uniquely to these medications. ec.bioscientifica.com + PMC + ClinicalTrials
Why Nutrition & Hormone Support Matters
GLP 1 medications often suppress appetite—and when food intake drops, especially protein and micronutrients, women's bodies may struggle to maintain hormone balance:
• Protein insufficiency can impair oestrogen and progesterone synthesis.
• Iron and B vitamin deficits are linked to fatigue, menstrual disruption, and even impaired fertility.
Support from a nutritionist who focuses on hormone balance and overall good health is critical to prevent unintended side effects like irregular cycles, hair thinning, or low energy—even when weight loss looks successful.
Moreover, side effects such as nausea, dizziness, or reduced absorption of certain nutrients can compound risk.
How I Support Women on GLP 1 Therapy
1. Hormone Friendly Nutritional Planning
I design meal plans rich in protein, iron, healthy fats, and B vitamins—supporting hormone production even during appetite reduction.
2. Lab Monitoring & Cycle Tracking
Before and during treatment, we assess hormone panels (oestrogen, progesterone, thyroid), nutrient status, and menstrual patterns to ensure everything stays on track.
3. Cycle & Fertility Safeguards
While GLP 1s can enhance insulin sensitivity and support ovulation in PCOS, they may also affect absorption of oral contraceptives or trigger unexpected fertility. I help clients plan strategically around conception or contraception.
4. Symptom & Side-Effect Support
We proactively manage common symptoms—like nausea or dizziness—with tailored meal timing and nutrient rich snacks to minimize side effects.
5. Sustainable Weight & Hormone Balance
Together, we set realistic goals for body composition, metabolic health, energy, and hormonal resilience—not just pounds lost.
Why Combining GLP 1 Therapy with Nutrition Expertise Makes All the Difference
| Benefit | Medication Alone | GLP 1 + Guided Nutrition/ Hormone Support |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Outcomes | Effective for weight and fat loss | Same, with better retention of lean mass and energy |
| Hormone balance in PCOS | Reduced testosterone, improved insulin resistance | With proper nutrition, cycles and fertility stabilise more reliably |
| Nutrient sufficiency | Risk of depletion if appetite drops | Structured nutrition ensures protein, iron, vitamins remain adequate |
| Menstrual & fertility care | Potential cycle disruption without supervision. | Lab based tracking supports safe transitions |
Benefits of Medication Alone
Weight Outcomes
Effective for weight and fat loss
Benefits of GLP 1 + Guided Nutrition/Hormone Support
Weight Outcomes
Same, with better retention of lean mass and energy
Benefits of Medication Alone
Hormone balance in PCOS
Reduced testosterone, improved insulin resistance
Benefits of GLP 1 + Guided Nutrition/Hormone Support
Hormone balance in PCOS
With proper nutrition, cycles and fertility stabilise more reliably.
Benefits of Medication Alone
Nutrient sufficiency
Risk of depletion if appetite drops
Benefits of GLP 1 + Guided Nutrition/Hormone Support
Nutrient sufficiency
Structured nutrition ensures protein, iron, vitamins remain adequate
Benefits of Medication Alone
Menstrual & fertility care
Potential cycle disruption without supervision
Benefits of GLP 1 + Guided Nutrition/Hormone Support
Menstrual & fertility care
Lab based tracking supports safe transitions
Final Thoughts
Yes—GLP 1 medications offer powerful benefits in weight, metabolic health, and hormonal balance. Science supports their use in women with PCOS and metabolic imbalances—when done thoughtfully. But without a holistic, hormone centred nutrition plan, the benefits may come at a hidden cost.
That’s why my work guides women through this journey—ensuring weight loss doesn’t mean hormone loss. If you're on or considering GLP 1 therapy and want to feel confident you're nourishing your hormones as well as your body—I’d love to support you. Please get in touch today to find out more.