If you’re taking a GLP-1 medication for weight loss, there’s a lot to keep track of, such as managing side effects, staying active and maintaining a nutrient-rich diet, just to name a few. But one thing that often gets overlooked is supplements. Because GLP-1s can affect appetite, digestion and nutrient absorption, it’s worth talking with your provider about what vitamins and minerals your body might need extra support with.
In the meantime, consider this your crash course in the most beneficial supplements to take while on a GLP-1. Ahead, Willowbrook, IL dermatologist Dr. Jessie Cheung and New York dermatologist Doris Day, MD break down the key nutrients to prioritize—and how they can help support your overall health.
Featured Experts
- Dr. Jessie Cheung is a board-certified dermatologist in Willowbrook, IL
- Doris Day, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in New York
Common Nutrient Deficiencies on GLP-1 Medications
As appetite decreases and food intake drops while taking a GLP-1, it can be harder to meet your body’s daily nutritional needs. Dermatologists say those changes often show up externally before you even notice them internally. “When patients are losing weight, especially quickly or while on GLP-1 medications, I often see nutrient deficiencies that first show up in the skin, hair and nails,” says Dr. Cheung.
“The most common [nutrient deficiencies] are protein, iron, zinc, vitamin D, B and essential fatty acids,” she continues. “Protein and amino acids are fundamental for collagen and keratin production, while iron, zinc, and vitamin B and D deficiencies will slow cell turnover and repair and weaken the barrier. So when dietary intake drops, the skin becomes dull, thinner and less elastic, more prone to dryness and inflammation, and hair can shed or lose strength.”
Dr. Day echoes the importance of replenishing what your body loses during weight reduction. “It’s very important to make sure you get enough protein and creatine is a great supplement to add in—five to ten milligrams per day,” she says. “I like to dissolve it in hot water before adding it to a smoothie or cottage cheese.”
The Best Supplements to Support Skin, Hair and Nail Health
To help counter those visible effects, Dr. Cheung recommends targeted supplements that nourish skin, hair and nails from the inside out. “To maintain skin health, I focus on nutrients that drive regeneration: collagen peptides, vitamin C, B, D, zinc and omega-3s, along with topical polynucleotides, exosomes and growth factors to support repair from within. All these are great for the hair too, along with biotin, amino acid complexes and adaptogens.”
In addition to those nutrients, Dr. Day points to magnesium glycinate and vitamin D for skin and energy support, as well as stress-adaptogen blends like Nutrafol to simplify routines. “It kind of packages it all in one to make it super easy for you,” she says.
Another specific product recommendation, courtesy of Dr. Cheung, is Copper GHK, which she calls her “go-to for its powerful regenerative effects on collagen and elastin synthesis.” She adds that “BPC-157 + TB-500 are peptides that support tissue healing and blood vessel support. I have so many GLP patients on this ‘Glow Stack,’ as this synergistic combination of copper GHK, BPC-157 and TB-500 supports skin and gut health.”
When (and What) to Expect Results From Supplement Support
As with most things in health and wellness, results take time and consistency. “You may actually feel better with more energy within weeks, but visible changes in skin quality typically appear in 6–12 weeks, and hair growth takes about three months,” Dr. Cheung says. “The good news is that the newer GLP-1 and GIP and GRA combinations appear to preserve more lean muscle mass compared to older formulations, especially when paired with sufficient protein, creatine, exercise and hydration, so we can achieve safer weight loss without sacrificing how we look.”
Dr. Day adds that gradual, strength-supported weight loss gives the skin time to rebound. “Make sure you do resistance training so that you lose fat without losing muscle,” she says. “Aim for one to two pounds of weight loss per week to help your skin adjust and avoid looking gaunt.”
Ultimately, pairing your GLP-1 treatment with the right mix of nutrients, supplement and healthy habits can help you look and feel your best throughout your weight-loss journey. Just be sure to talk with your provider about which supplements make the most sense for your unique treatment plan and goals.
