The British Dietetic Association (BDA) has launched a pioneering, evidence-based resource to support individuals taking medications for obesity, offered free of charge to the public and healthcare professionals.
With 95% of people who take medications for obesity not going through the NHS, few are getting adequate support with understanding how they affect health, how to manage their side effects and what behavioural changes are required to maximise long-term weight loss, once they stop taking them.
This first-of-its-kind resource encompasses all of the latest evidence on what to eat and drink and how to stay well while taking medications for obesity.
Following a rapid review of evidence by a specialist dietitian, the resource provides practical and trustworthy guidance on maintaining health, optimising outcomes and managing side effects.
Importantly, it also breaks down how the medications work and what individuals need to be aware of and monitor, alongside their healthcare professional.
Dr Adrian Brown, Registered Dietitian and Chair of the BDA’s Obesity Specialist Group said, “There has been a significant gap in accessible, evidence-based information for people taking medications for obesity. With obesity being a relapsing and remitting condition, individuals taking these medications require more than a prescription to ensure they make the behavioural changes required for lasting weight loss success. This resource gives healthcare professionals including GPs and pharmacists, a trusted tool to confidently direct people to, ensuring they are well-informed.”
Registered Dietitian, Dr Laura Stewart, who led the development of the resource on behalf of the BDA’s Obesity Specialist Group said, “Our guide translates complex and rapidly evolving evidence into clear, practical advice. Our aim is to ensure that everyone who is prescribed medications for obesity can take them safely with the nutritional and lifestyle support needed to achieve the best possible outcomes.”
To maximise accessibility and equity, the resource will soon be available in Welsh, Polish, Urdu, Spanish and Arabic, alongside formats designed for deaf and blind users.
There will also be additional tailored support for healthcare professionals working in oncology, severe mental health and renal settings.
The resources have been co-designed with people living with obesity.
This resource is a publication of The British Dietetic Association (BDA) intended for information only. It is not a substitute for proper medical diagnosis or dietary advice given by a dietitian.
