GLP-1 receptor agonist medications, such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, are employed in weight management. These medications facilitate reduced food intake. However, a significant consideration for individuals discontinuing these treatments is the potential for weight regain.
Weight Regain Post-GLP-1 Treatment
Individuals cease GLP-1 medication use for various reasons, including cost, experience of side effects, or having achieved a target weight. A central challenge across most weight-loss interventions is the phenomenon of weight regain. Following weight reduction, the body often exhibits physiological and metabolic adjustments that promote increased hunger and encourage weight restoration.
Long-term studies indicate that discontinuation of GLP-1 medications is associated with the regaining of over half the weight initially lost. This rebound effect may be influenced by how GLP-1 drugs interact with the body's appetite-regulating hormones. Evidence suggests that the body's endogenous release of the satiety hormone GLP-1 after meals may decrease, or the body's sensitivity to it may be reduced, potentially leading to a more rapid return of hunger.
The Role of Eggs in Dietary Management
Eggs are a nutritionally dense food source. They provide high-quality protein containing all essential amino acids, along with vitamin D and a range of micronutrients. They are also considered a sustainable and affordable animal protein source.
Historical concerns regarding egg consumption and health have largely been addressed by accumulating evidence. Contemporary data indicates an increase in egg consumption in regions such as the UK, where approximately 37 million eggs are consumed daily.
Effects of Eggs on Appetite and Satiety
Egg consumption has been observed to contribute to prolonged satiety and reduced subsequent food intake, including in individuals classified as overweight or obese. This effect is partly attributed to the protein content in eggs, which stimulates the body's natural GLP-1 release and concurrently suppresses ghrelin, a hunger-stimulating hormone.
In this context, eggs function as a natural GLP-1 agonist rather than a pharmacological agent. This effect is further enhanced when eggs are consumed with fiber-rich foods, such as wholegrain toast, which also contributes to GLP-1 release and offers additional health benefits. Therefore, eggs may serve as a dietary component to partially mimic the appetite-controlling effects experienced during GLP-1 medication use, particularly for those reducing their dosage or discontinuing treatment.
Eggs for Muscle Preservation and Nutrient Intake
Weight loss often involves a reduction in both fat and muscle mass, a process that can also occur during GLP-1 medication use. Maintaining muscle mass requires adequate protein intake. Studies suggest that protein intakes of approximately 1 gram per kilogram of body weight or higher are linked to greater muscle preservation. Eggs offer a practical and portion-controlled method to meet these protein targets, especially when appetite is suppressed.
Beyond protein, eggs supply nutrients that may be insufficient in some diets. For example, populations like that in the UK often exhibit low vitamin D intake, especially in winter. A 2025 study identified that individuals using GLP-1 drugs frequently showed deficiencies in key nutrients including calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins A, C, D, E, and K. Individuals with obesity may also present pre-existing deficiencies in nutrients such as vitamin E, selenium, and zinc. Eggs can provide a cost-effective means to address some of these nutritional shortfalls, particularly for those undergoing GLP-1 therapy.
Conclusion
While eggs are not a substitute for GLP-1 medications, their impact on appetite regulation, protein intake, and overall nutrition warrants consideration. For individuals considering, currently using, or planning to discontinue GLP-1 medications, incorporating eggs into their diet may offer supportive dietary benefits in weight management strategies.