What Supplements to Take Alongside Mounjaro?

By 
Dr Amit Kumar Singh
 on 
 • 
5
 min read

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) has rapidly become the leading GLP-1 medication for weight management in the UK, with recent data showing that 77.6% of users are women and that females in their 40s and 50s are the largest demographic group. Over 60,000 women in the UK have started Mounjaro with SheMed , and average weight loss in clinical trials ranges from 16% to 22.5% of body weight. It is a powerful tool that is changing lives for the better. However, a crucial part of this journey, and one that is often overlooked, is ensuring your body receives the vital nutrients it needs to thrive.

Mounjaro works, in part, by reducing appetite. While this is key to its effectiveness, a lower food intake can naturally lead to a reduced intake of essential vitamins and minerals. This isn't a cause for alarm, but rather a call for mindful planning. The goal of this article is to serve as your comprehensive guide to the supplements that may be beneficial for women taking Mounjaro. We will explore the essential nutrients to consider, supplements that can help manage common side effects, and the critical precautions to take.

Understanding the Link Between Mounjaro and Nutrient Absorption

To appreciate why supplements may be necessary, it's important to understand how Mounjaro interacts with your body. Mounjaro is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist. These gut hormones play a significant role in regulating blood sugar and, crucially, signalling feelings of fullness to your brain. This leads to a natural reduction in appetite and, consequently, you eat less.

While this is excellent for weight management, a smaller volume of food can mean fewer vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients. Over time, this can create nutritional gaps that may affect your energy levels, bone health, and overall well-being. Furthermore, some medications in this class can affect how certain nutrients, like vitamin B12, are absorbed in the gut. In my practice, I've observed similar patterns with other medications that influence appetite and digestion; proactively addressing nutrition is a cornerstone of successful long-term treatment. It's not just about losing weight; it's about gaining health. A well-planned, nutrient-dense diet is your foundation, and supplements are the targeted support to ensure that foundation remains solid throughout your Mounjaro journey.

Colorful healthy meal prep with corn, olives, tomatoes, and lentils in glass containers. Perfect for mindful eating.
Image courtesy of Ella Olsson from Pexels

Essential Supplements for Women on Mounjaro

Think of these as the foundational supports that nearly every woman on Mounjaro should consider discussing with her doctor. They address the most common potential deficiencies arising from reduced food intake.

Multivitamins: A General Overview

A high-quality daily multivitamin acts as a nutritional "safety net." It's an effective way to bridge any small, daily gaps in your diet. When you're eating less, it can be challenging to get the full spectrum of micronutrients your body needs every single day.

  • What to look for: Seek out a comprehensive multivitamin formulated specifically for women. These typically contain appropriate levels of iron, folic acid, and other nutrients tailored to female physiology. It should provide a broad range of vitamins (A, C, D, E, K, and the B-complex) and minerals (like zinc, selenium, and chromium).

Vitamin B12: Why It's Important

Vitamin B12 is critical for energy production, nerve function, and the formation of red blood cells. A deficiency can lead to fatigue, weakness, and even neurological issues.

Because GLP‑1 drugs slow gastric emptying and often change diet, some experts recommend monitoring B12 in patients who already have risk factors for deficiency (for example, those on metformin or with restricted diets), but a direct causal effect of tirzepatide on B12 absorption has not been firmly established in clinical trials. But rapid weight loss and GI side effects (nausea, vomiting) can further reduce overall nutrient intake and may contribute to lower B12 status over time.

  • Who is at risk? This is particularly crucial for women following a vegetarian or vegan diet, as B12 is primarily found in animal products.
  • Supplementation: Your GP can check your B12 levels with a simple blood test and recommend the best form of supplement, which could be oral tablets, sublingual (under the tongue) drops, or in some cases, injections.

Vitamin D: The Sunshine Vitamin

In the UK, we are all too familiar with a lack of consistent sunshine. For this reason, the NHS officially recommends that everyone should consider taking a daily vitamin D supplement during the autumn and winter months. For those on Mounjaro, it's even more critical.

Rapid, significant weight loss on tirzepatide raises concerns about loss of bone mineral density, especially in midlife and older adults. Vitamin D and calcium are often recommended together in GLP‑1/tirzepatide pathways to support bone health and calcium absorption during aggressive weight reduction.

  • Key Roles: Vitamin D is essential for absorbing calcium, making it fundamental for bone health - a key consideration during weight loss. It also plays a vital role in immune function and mood regulation.
  • Best Practice: Look for vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), as it is the form your body produces from sunlight and is generally considered more effective. For maximum benefit, especially for your bones, it's often taken in combination with calcium.

Iron: Combating Fatigue

Iron is a component of haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen around your body. Low iron levels can lead to anaemia, with symptoms like persistent fatigue, shortness of breath, and pale skin.

Mounjaro commonly causes nausea, reduced appetite and sometimes vomiting or diarrhoea, especially during dose escalation, which can lower overall food intake and change food choices. This may mean less red meat and other iron‑rich foods, so iron intake can fall over time.

Significant calorie restriction or highly selective “safe foods” while on Mounjaro can reduce intake of haem iron (meat, fish) and non‑haem iron (pulses, greens, fortified cereals), increasing the risk of low stores in susceptible patients.

  • Women's Health Focus: Women are already at a higher risk of iron deficiency due to blood loss during menstruation. Reduced intake of iron-rich foods like red meat and leafy greens while on Mounjaro can exacerbate this risk.
  • Absorption Tips: To maximise absorption, take your iron supplement with a source of vitamin C, such as a small glass of orange juice. Crucially, do not take iron at the same time as calcium supplements, coffee, or tea, as these can significantly hinder its absorption. Allow at least a two-hour window between them.

Magnesium: Supporting Digestion and More

Magnesium is a powerhouse mineral involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation.

  • Digestive Health: Mounjaro can sometimes cause digestive side effects. Magnesium can help regulate bowel movements and support overall gut health.
  • Choosing the Right Form: Different forms of magnesium have different benefits. Magnesium citrate is often used for its laxative effect, which can be helpful for constipation. Magnesium glycinate is highly absorbable and less likely to cause digestive upset, making it a good choice for general supplementation.
Close-up of various pills and supplements on a marble background, symbolizing health care and wellness.
Image courtesy of Nataliya Vaitkevich from Pexels

Targeting Side Effects: Additional Supplements to Consider

Beyond the essential nutrients, certain supplements can be incredibly helpful for managing some of the common side effects associated with Mounjaro, making your experience smoother and more comfortable.

Fibre: Relieving Constipation

One of the most frequently reported side effects of Mounjaro is constipation, as the medication slows down gastric emptying. A fibre supplement can be a gentle and effective solution.

  • Effective Options: Look for soluble fibres like psyllium husk or inulin. These absorb water to form a gel, which softens stools and promotes regularity. Inulin also acts as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in your gut.
  • How to Use: It is vital to start with a small dose and increase it gradually over several days. This allows your digestive system to adjust and helps prevent bloating or discomfort. Always take fibre supplements with plenty of water.

Electrolytes: Preventing Dehydration

Side effects like vomiting or diarrhoea, although less common, can lead to dehydration and an imbalance of electrolytes (minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium). Maintaining electrolyte balance is crucial for nerve signalling, muscle contraction, and hydration.

  • When to Consider: If you are experiencing these side effects, an electrolyte-rich drink or supplement can help you rehydrate and replenish these vital minerals far more effectively than water alone.

Protein: Preserving Muscle Mass

When you lose weight, especially rapidly, your body can lose both fat and muscle mass. The goal is to preserve as much lean muscle as possible, as it is metabolically active and essential for strength and function.

  • Why It's Important: Adequate protein intake provides the building blocks (amino acids) your body needs to repair and maintain muscle tissue.
  • Meeting Your Needs: Aim to include a source of protein with every meal. While whole foods like chicken, fish, eggs, tofu, and legumes are best, a high-quality protein powder (whey, casein, or a plant-based blend) can be an excellent and convenient way to ensure you're meeting your daily protein targets, especially when your appetite is low.

Collagen: Supporting Skin and Joints

During significant weight loss, skin elasticity and joint health can be a concern. Collagen is the main structural protein in your connective tissues, including your skin, tendons, and ligaments.

  • Potential Benefits: While more research is needed, some studies suggest that supplementing with collagen peptides may support skin hydration and elasticity, and potentially ease joint discomfort.
  • How to Take: Collagen peptides are easily absorbed and virtually tasteless, making them simple to add to your morning coffee, a smoothie, or even just a glass of water.

Important Considerations and Precautions

Navigating supplements can feel complex, but adhering to a few key principles will ensure you do so safely and effectively. This is where the partnership between you and your healthcare provider is most important.

Consult Your GP

If you are feeling unsure about anything, it is always best to speak with your GP first. If you are registered with SheMed, you can also reach out to our support team, who will be happy to guide you.

  • Personalised Assessment: Your doctor can run blood tests to identify any actual deficiencies, ensuring you only take what you truly need.
  • Safety First: They will review your full medical history and current medications to check for any potential interactions. Supplements are not benign; they can interact with Mounjaro and other drugs.
  • Correct Dosage: Your doctor will recommend the appropriate dosage for your specific needs, preventing you from taking too little or, more dangerously, too much.

Timing is Key

How and when you take your supplements can dramatically affect their absorption. As a rule of thumb, always read the label.

  • Key Interaction: Remember the crucial rule: take iron and calcium supplements at least two hours apart.
  • Fat-Soluble Vitamins: Vitamins A, D, E, and K are best absorbed when taken with a meal that contains some healthy fats.

Focus on a Food-First Approach

Supplements are exactly that-supplementary. They are designed to complement a healthy diet, not replace it.

  • Nutrient Synergy: Whole foods contain a complex matrix of vitamins, minerals, fibre, and phytonutrients that work together synergistically in ways that an isolated supplement cannot replicate.
  • Dietary Goals: Prioritise a diet rich in colourful vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and healthy fats. This should always be your primary source of nutrition.

Monitor for Side Effects

Pay attention to how your body feels after introducing a new supplement. While rare, side effects can occur. If you notice any adverse reactions, stop taking the supplement and consult your doctor.

Purchase from Reputable Brands

The supplement industry is not as tightly regulated as pharmaceuticals. Choose products from reputable, well-established brands that engage in third-party testing to verify the purity and potency of their ingredients.

In my clinical experience, the patients who achieve the most sustainable success are those who view their medication as one part of a holistic approach to health. They work collaboratively with their healthcare team, prioritise nutrition, and make informed choices about supplementation.

Conclusion

Mounjaro is a remarkable medical advancement for women's health, offering a powerful pathway to improved weight and metabolic function. By taking a proactive and informed approach to your nutrition, you can ensure your body is fully supported throughout this transformative journey.

The key supplements we've discussed a multivitamin, vitamin B12, vitamin D, iron, and magnesium—form a strong foundation for health while on Mounjaro. Additional support from fibre, electrolytes, protein, and collagen can further help you manage side effects and optimise your results.

However, the most important takeaway is the principle of personalised care. Your health needs are unique, and the single most critical step you can take is to have an open and honest conversation with your doctor. They are your best resource for creating a safe, effective, and tailored supplement plan that works in harmony with your Mounjaro treatment.

By combining this powerful medication with mindful nutrition and expert medical guidance, you are not just losing weight - you are building a foundation for a healthier, more vibrant future.

If you are considering Mounjaro or have any questions about whether it is right for you, reach out to our support team and we will be happy to help.

References

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The content on the SheMed blog is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. While SheMed provides professional weight loss services and strives to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date, we make no representations or guarantees as to its accuracy, completeness, or timeliness. This content should not be taken as personal medical advice or a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. Always speak with your doctor or licensed medical professional about your individual health or medical needs before starting any new treatment or programme. Never disregard or delay seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this site.  SheMed is not responsible for any actions you may take based on the information provided in this blog.

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