17 Jul A Dietitian’s Role With Weight Loss Medication

When a patient is prescribed weight loss medication from their primary care physician or nurse practitioner, a dietitian plays a key, supportive role in helping them achieve lasting, sustainable results. While the medication can assist with appetite regulation and weight loss, nutrition guidance is essential for making the most of the treatment. Developing sustainable nutrition and lifestyle habits can make all the difference between success or falling into the yo-yo diet trap. 

Can a nutritionist prescribe weight loss medication?

The short answer is no. Not even Dietitian Nutritionists can prescribe weight loss medications. Prescription medications must always be obtained through a primary care physician or nurse practitioner. Please beware of anybody offering prescriptions without qualifications!

A longer answer, though, is when taking weight loss medications, like Wegovy or other prescription options, a dietitian nutritionist can support a patient to help them implement sustainable dietary and lifestyle changes.  We don’t recommend only taking the medication because, without the complementary support, it’s easy to slip back into old habits. Together, we can build realistic, balanced eating habits that support both weight goals and overall health. This isn’t about strict diets or rigid plans — it’s about creating a personalized approach that fits the patient’s lifestyle, preferences, and needs.

 Dietitian Nutritionist Weight Loss Support – NYC Online Nutrition Therapy

If you’re starting (or restarting) your weight loss journey, nutrition therapy can be a really helpful tool — and it’s not about crash diets or perfection. It’s about creating something that works for you. Here’s how we usually approach it:

1. First, we talk.
   We start by getting to know you — your routines, your health background, how you typically eat, medications, and what’s felt difficult or confusing in the past. It’s all about understanding your world without any judgment.

2. We set goals that actually feel doable.
   This isn’t about setting huge, stressful goals. Instead, we focus on small, realistic steps that help build momentum and confidence.

3. You get a plan that fits your life.
   There’s no one-size-fits-all approach here. Your plan is tailored to your preferences, schedule, and lifestyle — and it’s designed to help you feel good, not restricted. We do not support carboard-flavored diets, instead modification and moderation, so you can continue to include your favorite flavors and family traditions.

4. We build new habits slowly and intentionally.
   You’ll learn how to make balanced choices, listen to your hunger cues, and create meals that actually satisfy you — mentally and physically.

5. We check in, adjust, and keep going.
   As life changes (because it always does), your plan can change too. Regular check-ins help us tweak things as needed and keep moving forward — with support the whole way.

Patients can expect a compassionate, judgment-free space to explore their relationship with food, learn how to nourish their bodies, and gain confidence in making choices that feel good physically and emotionally. Get the support you need today for sustainable results that last a lifetime!