Saxenda, a medication designed to help with weight loss, has gained significant attention. But it’s essential to understand that it’s not a standalone solution. To maximise its effectiveness, it’s crucial to pair it with a balanced diet and regular exercise. So how does Saxenda work best when paired with a suitable diet plan? Let’s dive in

Understanding Saxenda

Saxenda, a brand name for liraglutide, is a prescription medication used to help people with obesity or overweight and at least one weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes, lose weight and keep it off. It works by mimicking a natural hormone in your body that helps regulate appetite and food intake.

How does Saxenda work & can help with weight loss?

Saxenda works in two ways to aid weight loss:

• Appetite Suppression: Saxenda can help reduce your appetite, making it easier to eat less.
• Slower Digestion: It can slow down the rate at which your stomach empties, making you feel fuller for longer.

The Saxenda Diet Plan

While Saxenda can be a good tool in your weight loss journey, it’s essential to combine it with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Here’s a basic key diet principles to complement your Saxenda treatment:

• Calorie Control: Consume a balanced diet with a moderate calorie deficit.
• Nutrient-Dense Foods: Prioritise fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats.
• Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.   
• Limit Processed Foods: Reduce your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive amounts of saturated and unhealthy fats

Saxenda diet plan for maximum weight loss​

Saxenda can be a powerful ally in your weight loss journey, but it’s crucial to complement it with a sustainable dietary approach. Prioritising nutrient-dense foods and adopting healthy habits is key. To further enhance your weight loss efforts, tracking your calorie intake can be beneficial. The NHS suggests aiming for around 1,900 calories per day for men.

Please note that this is a general meal plan, and individual dietary needs, preferences, and activity levels may require adjustments. Consulting a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalised advice is always recommended.

Saxenda Diet Plan Sample

Breakfast (380 kcal)

• Porridge with milk and honey (250 kcal)
• Fruit (e.g., banana) (130 kcal)

Lunch (570 kcal)

• Grilled chicken salad (350 kcal)
• Whole-grain bread roll (220 kcal)

Dinner (570 kcal)

• Salmon with roasted vegetables (400 kcal)
• Brown rice (170 kcal)

Snacks and Drinks (380 kcal)

• Greek yoghourt with berries (200 kcal)
• Tea or coffee with milk (180 kcal)

Total Calories: 1900 calories

Remember to stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking plenty of water. The above sample meal plan offers a balanced nutritional approach and can be customised to align with your lifestyle and dietary preferences.

Remember

• Individual needs: This blog provides general guidelines. It’s essential to consult your health care professional or a registered dietitian to create a personalised Saxenda diet plan that aligns with your specific health goals and dosage.
• Portion control: Even healthy foods can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. Practise mindful eating and focus on portion control for optimal results.
• Long-Term sustainability: Aim to develop healthy eating habits you can maintain in the long run. This will ensure lasting weight loss success beyond your Saxenda treatment.

References

• Lindsey DeSoto, R. D. (2023a) 5 ways protein can help you lose weight, Health. Available at: https://www.health.com/ways-protein-can-help-you-lose-weight-7562625.
• Mehta, A., Marso, S.P. and Neeland, I.J. (2017) “Liraglutide for weight management: a critical review of the evidence: Review: liraglutide for weight management,” Obesity science & practice, 3(1), pp. 3–14. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1002/osp4.84.
• NHS (no date) Healthy eating when trying to lose weight, nhs.uk. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/lose-weight/healthy-eating-when-trying-to-lose-weight/
• Saxenda® (liraglutide) Injection 3 mg Dosing Schedule (2022) novoMEDLINK. Available at: https://www.novomedlink.com/obesity/products/treatments/saxenda/dosing-administration/saxenda-dosing.html 
• Tilinca, M.C. et al. (2021) “A 2021 update on the use of liraglutide in the modern treatment of ‘diabesity’: A narrative review,” Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 57(7), p. 669. Available at: https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina5707066
• Witek, K., Wydra, K. and Filip, M. (2022) “A high-sugar diet consumption, metabolism and health impacts with a focus on the development of substance use disorder: A narrative review,” Nutrients, 14(14), p. 2940. doi: 10.3390/nu14142940.