These medications decrease your appetite, so its important to double-check your diet contains the nutrients your body needs.

Its no secret that weight loss is big business.

These medications reduce the overall calories you consume or affect the absorption of certain nutrients, she says.

a photo of a woman making a salad

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On the other hand, other drugs, like orlistat, inhibit absorption of dietary fats.

For instance, just because someone is in a larger body does not mean they are unhealthy.

Likewise, just because someone is in a smaller body does not mean they are healthy.

However, weight-loss medication alone is not the answer.

Thus, while weight-loss medications may offer support, they do not replace healthy habits.

However, consider planning your diet with these tips in mind.

Plus, protein serves as a building block for hormones, enzymes and vitamins.

Protein needs differ based on your age, sex, height, weight and activity level.

This amount can help limit the muscle loss that happens when you lose weight.

Fiber is especially key during weight loss.

Rodriguez recommends choosing nonstarchy vegetables.

There are easy ways to fit more fiber into your day.

A frequent side effect of weight-loss medications is constipation.

Harris-Pincus suggests drinking 2 to 3 liters of water throughout the day.

When you sip matters, too.

If you’re consuming three meals per day, you may benefit from consuming water away from meals.

Be aware of the side effects they may cause, like potential nutrient deficiencies of fat-soluble vitamins.

That leaves less room for added sugars and ultra-processed foods that offer little nutrition, Harris-Pincus says.

Working with health care professionals is crucial to achieving weight loss and improving your health.