GLP-1 weight loss drugs raise concerns about malnutrition and the potential return of scurvy because they suppress appetite and reduce the intake of essential nutrients.[4] Users of these drugs may have trouble consuming enough vitamins and minerals, leading to diseases such as vitamin C deficiency scurvy.[4] Common side effects include gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.[5][7] More serious side effects include inflammation of the pancreas and an 11 percent increased risk of arthritis.[1][7] A Harvard University study of 16,000 patients found that diabetics taking semaglutide had a fourfold higher risk of NAION (a disease causing vision loss) than patients on other drugs.[8] The European Medicines Agency officially recognized NAION as a very rare but serious side effect of semaglutide drugs in June 2025.[8] Focusing on plant-based, whole-grain foods rich in fiber and protein is recommended to reduce the risk of malnutrition while taking GLP-1 medications.[4]