Getting Started with GLP-1 Tracking: A Beginner's Guide
New to GLP-1 medications? Here's everything you need to know about tracking your doses, managing side effects, and making the most of your treatment.
Starting a GLP-1 medication like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or Zepbound is a big step in your health journey. Whether you're using it for weight management or type 2 diabetes, keeping track of your progress can make a real difference in your results.
Why Track Your GLP-1 Journey?
Tracking isn't just about remembering when to take your medication (though that's important too). It's about understanding how your body responds over time. Here's what tracking can reveal:
- Patterns in side effects — Many people experience nausea or fatigue, especially when starting or increasing doses. Tracking helps you identify triggers and timing.
- Progress beyond the scale — Weight fluctuates daily. Weekly trends tell the real story.
- Injection site rotation — Rotating sites helps prevent skin issues and ensures consistent absorption.
- Nutrition insights — GLP-1s reduce appetite, but getting enough protein matters for maintaining muscle.
What to Track
1. Medication Details
Log your dose amount, injection site, and any notes about how it went. Did you notice bruising? Was it more or less painful than usual? These details help you and your healthcare provider optimize your treatment.
2. Weight Trends
Weigh yourself at the same time each day (morning, after using the bathroom, before eating). Don't stress about daily fluctuations — focus on the weekly average.
3. How You Feel
Track energy levels, mood, appetite, and any side effects. Many people notice their appetite decreases significantly, which is the medication working as intended.
4. Nutrition
Even with reduced appetite, aim for adequate protein (typically 0.7-1g per pound of goal body weight). Track calories if that's helpful, but don't obsess — the medication is doing the heavy lifting.
Tips for Success
- Set reminders — GLP-1s are typically taken weekly. Pick a day and time that works with your schedule.
- Take progress photos — The scale doesn't show everything. Photos capture changes you might not notice day-to-day.
- Be patient — Results build over time. Most people see significant progress over 3-6 months.
- Stay hydrated — Drink plenty of water, especially as your eating patterns change.
Privacy Matters
Your health data is personal. That's why GlucoPal stores everything locally on your device — no accounts, no cloud sync, no way for anyone else to see your data. You're in control.
Ready to start tracking? Download GlucoPal free on the App Store and take control of your GLP-1 journey.
Ready to start tracking?
Download GlucoPal and take control of your GLP-1 journey.
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