Maximizing Nutritional Support Alongside GLP-1 Therapy

MAXIMIZING NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT ALONGSIDE GLP-1 THERAPY The Role of Chia Fiber and Protein

Support Health Throughout and Beyond Treatment Emphasizing Nutrient Density People seeking a healthier weight are increasingly turning to medications such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which were developed to influence insulin secretion, but can also suppress appetite.

Developed initially to manage type-2 diabetes, GLP-1s have also been FDA-approved for chronic weight management.

Challenges of GLP-1 Therapy GLP-1 medications function in part by slowing gastric emptying and reducing appetite, resulting in significantly decreased food intake and potentially lower nutrient intake. While this mechanism drives weight loss, it creates a critical nutritional challenge: How to make every bite count by optimizing micro- and macronutrient density to preserve lean mass, support energy, and maintain metabolic health from a substantially reduced volume of food. Otherwise, users risk losing a significant amount of lean muscle mass, which is essential for supporting

Nearly half of U.S. adults (41.9%) are living with obesity today.

metabolic function, physical strength, and long-term health outcomes.

GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro represent a significant advancement in weight

The data on muscle loss during

management and glycemic control. However, they also

GLP-1 therapy is particularly concerning,

present notable challenges that can lead to negative health consequences, such as reduced muscle and bone mass, and may complicate treatment adherence. They also

with research showing that 25% to 40% of weight lost consists of lean muscle tissue.

introduce a further consideration: how to get sufficient

For a patient experiencing 50 pounds of

essential nutrients from much smaller meal volumes

weight loss, this could translate to 12 to 20

while maintaining health and long-term well-being once appetite returns.

pounds of muscle loss.

Equally challenging, for many, are the gastrointestinal side effects associated with GLP-1 therapy. Nausea, diarrhea, and constipation affect a substantial proportion of users.

While the mechanisms behind these effects are not fully understood, they likely involve altered gastric emptying, central nervous system effects, changes in nutrient absorption, and modified intestinal motility. These digestive symptoms can add to the challenge of consuming adequate nutrition. For some users, the symptoms may even cause them to quit taking GLP-1s altogether.

MAXIMIZING NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT ALONGSIDE GLP-1 THERAPY: THE ROLE OF CHIA FIBER AND PROTEIN

Keys to GLP-1 Support: Fiber and Protein

Recent expert guidance on GLP-1 utilization has emphasized the importance of helping users:

GLP-1 is an incretin hormone the body releases

choose nutrient-dense foods

following food consumption. It promotes satiety, stimulates glucose-dependent insulin secretion, slows gastric emptying, and helps regulate appetite through

maintain lean muscle mass

central mechanisms in the brain. GLP-1 medications are synthetic analogs that amplify these endogenous

address the side effects that can lead to stopping treatment

effects. What’s more, both fiber and protein naturally support the same physiological pathways involved in satiety and metabolism that GLP-1 medications

optimize dietary approach, emphasizing lean proteins, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats

target. That makes them ideal nutrients for addressing challenges relating to GLP-1 therapy.

NUTRIENT

HEALTH BENEFITS

GLP-1 SUPPORTING

PROTEIN

• Maintain muscle mass

High-protein meals demonstrate particular

• Promote satiety

efficacy in enhancing GLP-1 secretion compared

• Maintain weight loss

to low-protein alternatives. Protein intake alone is sufficient to trigger GLP-1 release, and specific peptides derived from protein digestion can inhibit the enzyme DPPIV, which normally degrades GLP-1.

DIETARY FIBER

• Promote

Chia Fiber and Chia Protein can Help These uniquely

This means high-quality protein may help extend

valuable ingredients

the beneficial effects of circulating GLP-1 while

support GLP-1

supporting lean muscle mass maintenance.

users in maximizing

Dietary fiber operates through two distinct

nutritional density

gastrointestinal (GI)

mechanisms. First, it exerts direct effects in the

while effectively

health

proximal intestine by activating specific receptors

managing side

• Promote satiety

that trigger GLP-1 release. Second, when fiber

• Maintain weight loss

reaches the colon, intestinal bacteria ferment it into

effects. The result

short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are natural

is more sustainable

GLP-1 stimulators. These dual functions mean fiber

weight loss that

can promote GLP-1 release throughout the entire

promotes whole-

gastrointestinal tract, creating sustained impacts on satiety and glucose metabolism. That’s especially

person health.

advantageous for patients attempting to maintain nutritional adequacy from reduced meal volumes.

SUPPORT HEALTH THROUGHOUT AND BEYOND TREATMENT

3

Supporting Nutrition Not all fiber sources are equally tolerable when the digestive system is already managing the effects of slowed gastric emptying and altered gut motility. Many high-fiber foods or supplements can exacerbate bloating, gas, and discomfort, which is particularly problematic for GLP-1 users already experiencing nausea or constipation from their medication.

THE DIGESTIVE HEALTH BENEFIT OF CHIA FIBER

THE MUSCLE-PRESERVING PROPERTIES OF CHIA PROTEIN

Chia fiber has unique properties that make it particularly

Adequate protein intake is essential for GLP-1 users to

well-suited for individuals undergoing GLP-1 therapy. It

protect lean mass and support satiety. And use of GLP-1s

increases luminal viscosity, which contributes to enhanced

should be combined with resistance training, experts

satiety without causing significant digestive discomfort.

recommend. But addressing muscle loss during weight

Unlike some fibers that undergo rapid fermentation in

reduction calls for more than just increasing protein intake

the upper gastrointestinal tract (potentially causing gas

and exercise. The quality of protein and its bioavailability

and bloating), chia fiber ferments slowly and primarily

are critically important, particularly when patients are

in the colon. This slow-and-steady fermentation

eating smaller portions and feel less hungry.

profile contributes to high digestive tolerance and creates prebiotic effects that support friendly intestinal microbiota.

These characteristics position chia protein as an excellent option for preserving lean muscle mass during weight loss, especially the rapid and significant weight loss that comes

Clinical research across five trials has demonstrated

with taking a GLP-1. When users struggle to consume

that chia fiber supplementation promotes the growth

adequate protein due to reduced appetite, every gram

of beneficial bacteria, including specific SCFA-producing

ought to provide the maximum benefit. A protein source

species such as Enterococcus and Lactobacillus. These

that offers high digestibility and amino acid balance

bacterial species produce the short-chain fatty acids

delivers optimal muscle-building support in a smaller

that naturally stimulate endogenous GLP-1 production,

package, maximizing nutritional density. This combination

potentially creating synergistic effects with GLP-1

thus helps meet protein goals even when appetite is low.

medications. The increased bacterial diversity also

And particularly in the weight maintenance phase, these

positively impacts overall gastrointestinal health by

attributes can assist in preventing rebound weight gain

increasing supportive metabolites, strengthening the

and supporting ongoing muscle health.

intestinal barrier, and reducing inflammation — all factors that may help mitigate the gastrointestinal side effects of GLP-1 medications.

Chia protein provides a well-balanced amino acid profile, delivering the essential

Chia’s unique gel-forming properties also enhance satiety without excess bulk or bloating. The soluble fiber in chia may help limit absorption of dietary fat, providing supplementary support for weight management. Additionally, its slow, colontargeted fermentation supports SCFA

building blocks muscles require in the right proportions. Chia protein’s high digestibility helps ensure efficient absorption and utilization of constituent amino acids.

Plus, it demonstrates fast-to-intermediate digestion rates, which supports effective muscle protein synthesis.

production and microbiome balance that can further stimulate endogenous GLP-1 release.

MAXIMIZING NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT ALONGSIDE GLP-1 THERAPY: THE ROLE OF CHIA FIBER AND PROTEIN

Practical Applications Incorporating Chia into GLP-1 Treatment Plans The utility of chia fiber and protein as nutritional tools lies in their versatility. They can be incorporated into

Chia fiber and protein can be incorporated into everyday recipes or formulations—

smoothies, mixed into yogurt, added to oatmeal, or

from smoothies and baked goods to

included in baked goods. For users managing early satiety

supplements—offering a clean-label,

and occasional nausea, having concentrated sources of

functional solution for the evolving GLP-1

fiber and protein that can be consumed in small volumes provides significant practical advantages.

consumer market.

To be clear, these ingredients are food-based complements to GLP-1 therapy, not pharmaceutical interventions. They are not intended to replace prescribed medical treatment. Rather, they’re simple, relatively inexpensive food-based components that address the specific nutritional challenges faced by GLP-1 users. They facilitate meeting fiber requirements without digestive distress. They provide high-quality protein to support muscle preservation. And they may support the body’s endogenous GLP-1 pathways, functioning complementarily rather than antagonistically with medication regimens.

THE BOTTOM LINE While GLP-1 medications offer substantial therapeutic benefits, their long-term effects continue to be investigated. What we know for sure: Successful outcomes call for more than pharmaceutical intervention alone. They necessitate maintaining a consistent, balanced diet that supports muscle preservation,

Maintaining Results after GLP-1 Therapy

gastrointestinal health, and overall wellness.

In the context of weight maintenance, when GLP-1 therapy

maximize nutritional density in every calorie

is reduced or discontinued — whether at a physician’s

consumed, chia fiber and protein represent

direction or once weight goals are achieved, maintaining

practical, evidence-based nutritional tools

results becomes an important phase of care. Appetite

positioned to address these specific challenges.

often increases, and without nutritional strategies that

While they do not constitute comprehensive

promote satiety and help preserve lean muscle mass,

solutions, they offer targeted support in the

weight regain may occur. Emphasizing nutrient-dense

areas where GLP-1 users face the greatest

foods and functional ingredients such as chia protein and

nutritional demands.

For patients navigating reduced appetite, digestive challenges, and the imperative to

fiber can help support this transition by providing lasting fullness, balanced energy, and lean muscle protection for ongoing metabolic health.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

5

Benexia® Chia Ingredients for GLP-1

Functional 56% Chia Fiber Concentrate

Premium 42% Chia Protein Concentrate

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Benexia Xia Powder 435 W LM is a high-fiber, partially

Benexia® Xia Powder 125 W LM is a high-protein, partially

defatted micro-milled powder derived from white chia

defatted micro-milled powder derived from white chia

seeds. This ingredient delivers soluble and insoluble

seeds. This ingredient delivers a complete amino acid

fiber and plant-based protein. It is designed for bakery,

profile, excellent digestibility (91.9%), and is designed for

functional foods, and nutraceuticals.

nutraceuticals, functional foods, and beverages.

PRODUCT FEATURES

PRODUCT FEATURES

•

56% Dietary fiber

•

≥ 42% chia-based plant protein

•

25% High-quality protein

•

PDCAAS: 0.95

•

5% Omega-3 ala (600 mg/12 g)

•

Contains all essential amino acids

•

<1 g net carbs, keto-friendly

•

20% dietary fiber (soluble and insoluble)

•

Rich in minerals & antioxidants

•

9% omega-3 fatty acids (ALA)

•

Free of allergens, gluten, GMOs, starches

•

Mild, nutty flavor

•

Free of allergens, gluten, GMOs

®

PROVEN NUTRITIONAL & HEALTH ADVANTAGES Insoluble Fiber 50% (hemicellulose)

PROVEN ADVANTAGES

•

Health & Nutritional

Gut health & Regularity*

Soluble fiber 6%

•

Excellent plant-based protein source

(HMW polysaccharide - viscous/fermentable)

•

Contributes to muscle maintenance and

•

Supports gut microbiota (prebiotic effect)

•

Promotes glycemic management

•

Reduces cholesterol and improves heart health

•

Contributes to appetite control

metabolic wellness •

Easy absorption with no bloating or digestive discomfort

•

Provides essential omega-3s (ALA) for cardiovascular health, and as precursor of EPA and DHA

TECHNICAL FUNCTIONALITIES •

Moisture control

TECHNICAL FUNCTIONALITIES

•

Clean-label

•

•

Binding agent and texture enhancement

•

Shelf-life extender

•

Enhances dough structure

Clean-label: free of contaminants and chemical treatments

•

Binding agent and gluten-like performance: gum replacement

•

Smooth texture, unlike gritty alternatives

•

Easily dispersible, ideal for shakes, drinks, and powders

MAXIMIZING NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT ALONGSIDE GLP-1 THERAPY: THE ROLE OF CHIA FIBER AND PROTEIN

Applications BENEXIA® XIA POWDER 435 W LM*

Shakes & Meal Replacements

3% – 6%

Fiber Supplements

12 g/day

Bread & Bakery Products - to replace gums or emulsifiers

0.5% – 3%

- as high fiber flour

5% – 10%

Fruit Purée

Up to 5%

Cereal & Snack Products

2.5% – 5%

BENEXIA® XIA POWDER 125 W LM* Beverages & Dairy Protein drinks, Shakes

Bakery & Snacks Bars, Cereals, Snacks

Nutritional Supplements Powder blends, Capsules

Meat Analogues

0.2-0.5%

10%

4-6%

up to 10%

*These ingredients have been approved as a Novel Food (Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/500), and its use is subject to local regulations worldwide.

DISCLAIMER This communication is intended for B2B use, and no statements are meant to be perceived as approved by regulatory authorities.

Local regulations must be reviewed to confirm permissibility of ingredients and claims for each food category.

BENEXIA CHIA INGREDIENTS FOR GLP-1

7

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Tamargo A, Martin D, Navarro Del Hierro J, Moreno-Arribas MV, Muñoz LA. Food Res Int. (2020). Intake of soluble fibre from chia seed reduces bioaccessibility of lipids, cholesterol and glucose in the dynamic gastrointestinal model simgi®. Food Research International, Volume 137,109364,ISSN 0963-9969, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodres.2020.109364.

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MAXIMIZING NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT ALONGSIDE GLP-1 THERAPY: THE ROLE OF CHIA FIBER AND PROTEIN

Benexia®, a Leader in the Industry Launched in 2000, Benexia® is a world leader in the production, processing, and commercialization of chia and chia-based ingredients.

Our company is vertically integrated from agricultural production to final ingredients and solutions, including plant cultivation, extraction, concentration processes, and ingredients development.

We guarantee traceability from the fields and certified quality (GAP, GMP-HACCP, and FSSC 22000). Benexia products are certified Halal and Kosher.

Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility Benexia employs regenerative agriculture to achieve lower carbon and water footprints from planting to harvesting. These practices are incorporated by the brand’s farming partners in Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay. Harvested chia seeds are processed without the use of gas or water. Seeds are cleaned and separated using physical processes such as airflow and density-based separation methods, yielding a final seed product that’s 99.95% pure.

Since its founding in 2005, Benexia is dedicated to supporting the welfare of its local communities. Benexia is aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainability Development Goals and is on track to complete its B Corp certification by 2025. Half of Benexia’s partner shareholders are chia farmers. This guarantees fair pricing and technical support within the company’s supply chain as well as full traceability of ingredients.

Our Team, the Best Customer Service We’re passionate about health, wellbeing, and providing exceptional service for our customers. We offer support in formulation, nutrition, scientific and regulatory matters, with the best experts to assist your needs.

Contact us for samples, application sheets and more information at info@benexia.com

9

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