You started GLP-1, you're losing weight, everything seems fine. But maybe you feel something you can't explain: fatigue that won't go away, increased hair loss, weak nails, irritability. It could be a micronutrient deficiency — and it's more common than you think.
Reduced appetite during GLP-1 treatment can cause vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Understand the most common ones and what to do.
Why GLP-1 Causes Deficiencies
GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide significantly reduce appetite. Less hunger means less food. Less food means fewer vitamins and minerals coming in. But the problem isn't just quantity — it's also absorption quality.
With reduced food intake, several nutrients become depleted: vitamin D, iron, B12, zinc, magnesium. These are exactly the nutrients your body needs to maintain energy, hair, nails, and stable mood.
Additionally, many people on GLP-1 protocols restrict carbohydrates significantly. This affects tryptophan absorption, a serotonin precursor — which explains the irritability and anxiety some people experience.
Track the estimated level of each dose and know the right time to inject.
See it in the appWhich Nutrients Are Most Affected
Iron: essential for oxygen transport in the blood. Deficiency causes fatigue, dizziness, pallor. Women of childbearing age are at higher risk.
Vitamin D: regulates calcium absorption and immune function. Most Brazilians already have low levels due to lack of sun, and with less food intake, it gets worse.
Vitamin B12: crucial for nervous system and blood cell production. Found mainly in animal sources — people who reduce meat intake may become deficient.
Zinc: involved in healing, immune function, and skin health. Rapid weight loss can increase demand.
Magnesium: regulates muscle, nerves, and blood pressure. Deficiency worsens cramps, insomnia, and anxiety.
