Let’s Talk: Weight Loss Injections, Side Effects & Supporting Your Body the Right Way

There’s no denying it - weight loss injections are having a moment. From TikTok trends to celebrities sharing their journeys, medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are everywhere. And while I’m not here to judge anyone’s decision (your body, your choice!), I do think it’s important we have an open, honest conversation about what these injections actually do - and more importantly, how to support your body if you’re using them.

The Promise of Weight Loss Injections… and the Reality

These injections work by mimicking a hormone in the body called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). This hormone plays a role in regulating appetite and blood sugar levels, so when it's replicated through medication, it can lead to reduced hunger, a feeling of fullness sooner, and, for many, noticeable weight loss.

And for some people, these medications have been genuinely life-changing. They’ve helped reduce risks linked to type 2 diabetes, lowered blood pressure, and supported those who’ve struggled with their weight for years. There’s no shame in seeking support when something feels hard - especially when health is at stake.

But like any medical treatment, weight loss injections come with a need for caution and a balanced approach. The side effects can be wide-ranging - from nausea, fatigue, and digestive issues to more serious concerns like muscle loss, nutritional deficiencies, and, in some cases, a sense of emotional disconnect from food and the body. These aren’t reasons to judge or panic, but they are reasons to stay informed and intentional.

If you’re considering these injections or already using them, it’s so important to remember that medication is just one part of the picture. Your body still needs care. It still needs movement, nourishment, rest, and kindness. Pairing these medications with good habits, especially as we age or navigate things like perimenopause and menopause, can make all the difference in how you feel, function, and thrive for the long term.

What Your Body Really Needs

This is where I come in. Not to tell you what to do, but to support you in taking care of your body in a way that feels kind, sustainable, and empowering. If you’re using (or considering using) weight loss injections, it’s more important than ever to think about the bigger picture. Because while these medications may help shift the number on the scales, your long-term health and wellbeing still need just as much love and attention.

Let’s break it down:

Building Strength: One of the lesser-talked-about side effects of weight loss injections is muscle loss. And this is especially important for women in perimenopause or menopause, when muscle mass naturally begins to decline and strength becomes harder to maintain. Strength training, whether that’s bodyweight work at home, resistance bands, or weights, helps you preserve lean muscle, boost your metabolism, and protect your bones (so important for reducing the risk of osteoporosis later on). It’s not about lifting heavy to look a certain way - it’s about keeping your body strong, functional, and ready for everything life throws at you.

Staying Active: You don’t need hour-long gym sessions. In fact, short, low-impact workouts, like the ones I use in my online programmes, can be incredibly effective. Movement helps support everything from cardiovascular health and joint mobility to digestion and mood. Especially during hormonal shifts in midlife, staying active plays a huge role in managing symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and anxiety. It’s not about doing ‘more’ - it’s about doing what works for you, consistently.

Fueling Properly: When your appetite is reduced, it’s easy to under-eat - but your body still needs fuel. In fact, it needs better fuel. Think: quality protein to support muscle, fibre for digestion and hormone balance, healthy fats for energy and skin health, and plenty of hydration to keep things moving. I work with clients to gently guide them back toward intuitive eating, no fads, no fear, just real food, in a way that suits their life and their body.

Looking After Your Mental Health: Weight loss is often seen as a win, but we don’t always talk about what comes next. Rapid changes in your body can trigger unexpected emotions - doubt, insecurity, even a sense of loss. And for many women already dealing with the emotional rollercoaster of perimenopause or menopause, this can feel like a lot. That’s why I’m such a big advocate of fitness as self-care, not punishment. A short walk, a stretch session, a strength workout - all of these can ground you, clear your head, and boost those feel-good endorphins that help you reconnect with your body in a positive way.

No Judgement - Just Support

Whether you’re using injections or just curious, know this: you don’t have to go it alone. I’ve worked with lots of clients navigating weight changes, and what’s always clear is that the best results come when you combine tools like medication with genuine lifestyle support.

So if you’re looking for someone to help you feel stronger, more energised, and confident in your skin, without judgement, I’d love to chat.

You deserve to feel good in your body, whatever path you’re on. 💛