GLP-1 Medications: What Dietitians Need to Know Right Now

Welcome to the Pursuing Private Practice podcast!   Join Jennifer McGurk, the CEO of Pursuing Private Practice, and Nicole Randazzo, founder of Bettr Full, a virtual practice with a focus on helping clients navigate nutrition both with and without GLP-1 medications. In this episode, they unpack everything dietitians need to know about GLP-1 medications, how to support clients through both weight loss and weight-inclusive counseling, and practical strategies that dietitians at any career stage can use when working with clients.   Nicole shares her expertise as a dietitian specializing in GLP-1s, highlighting client results, challenging side effects, and the importance of seeing a dietitian for support. Jennifer brings a weight-inclusive view to the conversation, emphasizing the role of counseling, body image, and holding space for complex, individualized care. Together, they explore the complexities of GLP-1 medications and highlight the essential role dietitians play in supporting clients beyond the prescription.   04:52 – How Nicole built a GLP-1-focused practice Nicole shares her path from diabetes education to bariatrics to recognizing a major gap in nutrition support—and building her niche around it. 06:43 – Why dietitian referrals should be standard A strong stance: every GLP-1 prescription should come with dietitian referrals for ongoing, proactive support. 09:28 – Breaking down what GLP-1 actually does They explain how these medications impact hunger, digestion, and blood sugar—and why they've expanded beyond diabetes care. 14:22 – Navigating different philosophies A real conversation about weight-inclusive and weight-loss approaches—and how both show up in client care. 16:26 – What clients are really struggling with From food noise and appetite shifts to fear of muscle loss and years of dieting, they unpack the real-life challenges clients bring in. 20:05 – The realities of being on (and coming off) GLP-1s Side effects, plateaus, insurance changes, and what happens when medication isn't accessible anymore. 22:12 – Shifting the focus beyond weight A powerful reframe: looking at labs, energy, sleep, and overall health instead of just the scale. 24:36 – Why dietitians are more important than ever The relationship, personalization, and long-term care dietitians provide can't be replaced by quick fixes or AI tools. 28:27 – The risks + how dietitians support safely They talk through side effects, under-eating, and how tailored nutrition strategies make a huge difference. 31:00 – Blending approaches in a real-world way Using weight-inclusive care to reduce shame, while still applying structure when it supports the client. 34:07 – Advice for dietitians at every stage Whether you're new or advanced, there's a place for you in this work—and a way to keep growing your skillset. 35:00 – Knowing your stance and your limits Self-awareness matters: understanding your philosophy and when to refer out. 37:00 – Staying open as the field evolves GLP-1s aren't going anywhere—this is an opportunity to stay curious and continue learning.   Without personalized and skilled nutrition support, clients taking GLP-1 medications aren't able to accurately navigate challenges, including changes in hunger, digestion, and metabolism, and risk inadequate protein intake and disordered eating. Dietitians can turn these challenges into opportunities for deeper client relationships, providing client-centered, compassionate care. This episode breaks down the pros and cons of GLP-1 medications, and is helpful whether you're just starting to build your counseling foundation or are a seasoned dietitian.   ✨ Business School is a comprehensive 6-month program designed to guide you through every stage of building a private practice: getting set up, seeing your first clients, growing until you're fully booked, hiring a team, expanding your offers—and even learning how to coast when needed. Inside, you'll follow a step-by-step curriculum with the flexibility to choose the path that fits your current stage of business and life. You'll get access to advanced toolkits, templates, and systems for business topics like marketing and finances, but also for counseling skills and client support. Beyond the curriculum, you're supported by personalized 1:1 coaching, weekly office hours, and monthly themes that address the real challenges of private practice. The program keeps you moving forward with built-in accountability that builds resilience and confidence so you feel like a legit business owner.   Learn more and apply here: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/businessschool/   Find Pursuing Private Practice on Instagram @pursuing.private.practice   About Nicole: Nicole Randazzo is the founder of Bettr Full, a virtual private practice with a focus on helping clients navigate nutrition both with and without GLP-1 medications. She is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. Nicole specializes in weight management and blood sugar support, with a focus on helping clients navigate nutrition both with and without GLP-1 medications.     Her approach combines evidence-based nutrition with behavior change and a full-body perspective. She helps clients better understand their eating habits, their relationship with food, and how to build sustainable routines that support their health long-term.  She works with individuals who are looking for realistic, individualized guidance—whether that's improving blood sugar, enhancing lab markers, supporting weight loss, improving quality of life, or building a more supportive and balanced mindset around food.   Find Nicole on Instagram at @bettrfull