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.
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Ver no 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.
