Around 31 million U.S. adults have taken a GLP-1 drug (half are still on them), and 12.5 million or more are doing it because they're obese or overweight.

While the medications offer some an effective remedy — reducing body weight by 5% to 18% — others find it difficult to lose that much or to withstand the gastrointestinal side effects, the nutritional deficiencies the drugs exacerbate, and muscle and bone loss they can cause.

Now, a joint advisory committee formed by the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society has issued a series of recommendations for people using GLP-1s to lose weight. These tips will help protect them from nutritional deficiencies and muscle and bone loss, and make side effects easier to manage.

In addition to a diet that contains a wide variety of nutrient-dense, minimally processed foods such as fruits, vegetables, 100% whole grains, legumes, lean proteins, nuts, and seeds, dietary supplements may be smart to take.

Deficiencies of iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and vitamins A, D, E, K, B1, B12, and C have been observed with GLP-1 use.

You also need enough lean protein (from healthful fish and skinless poultry, plus vegetable sources) along with two to three strength-training sessions weekly to protect your muscles and bones.

If you combine those steps with your GLP-1 medication, you will get optimal results — and see improvements in metabolic health and overall well-being.

For more information on how to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, check out "The Great Age Reboot."