284: Popular Weight Loss Meds & The Evolving Role of RDNs in Obesity Care – Linda Gigliotti & Hope Warshaw

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 40% of American adults have obesity, costing the U.S. healthcare system an estimated $173 billion annually. The development of incretin-based therapies, such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), marks a major advance in obesity treatment. Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) play a crucial role in providing medical nutrition therapy (MNT) to people using these medications as part of comprehensive obesity care.

Tune into this episode to learn about:

● the new paper published in JAND about injectable weight loss medications and lifestyle interventions

● the unique and evolving role of RDNs in obesity care

● why this new class of obesity medications has become so popular

● how these medications work

● the amount of weight loss needed to reduce obesity related comorbidities

● the evolution of different terms for these medications

● the pipeline of obesity medications we will see in the next few years

● how these medications have impacted the role of RDNs in counseling patients

● common side effects and nutritional considerations

● concerns about loss of muscle mass and bone density

● the importance of and role of exercise while taking these medications

● emotional aspects of significant weight loss in a short time

● how RDNs can be utilized in comprehensive obesity care in the long term

● how RDNs can stay informed and up to date on the medications and obesity care in general

● when people taking these medications should be referred to RDNs

● how working with an RDN can improve a person's experience and outcomes

● additional information and resources for the public and health professionals

Full shownotes, transcript and resources: https://soundbitesrd.com/284