Contrave is a prescription medication designed to aid weight loss by reducing appetite and controlling cravings. It combines two active drugs, bupropion and naltrexone, working synergistically to support long-term weight management in individuals struggling with obesity. While Contrave offers significant assistance, its effectiveness is greatly enhanced when paired with lifestyle modifications, particularly dietary adjustments. Knowing which foods to limit or avoid is crucial to optimize your weight loss journey with Contrave and to mitigate potential side effects.
Dietary Guidelines While Taking Contrave
According to Ishita Prakash Patel, MD, a board-certified endocrinologist at Texas Diabetes and Endocrinology, a balanced diet is key while on Contrave or any weight-loss medication. She emphasizes the importance of not restricting entire food groups but rather making mindful choices within them. Angela Ginn-Meadow, RD, CDE, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator, echoes this sentiment, recommending specific food categories that should be limited to enhance the benefits of Contrave and promote overall well-being.
1. Processed Foods: Empty Calories and Potential Complications
Processed foods are detrimental to weight management and can hinder the effectiveness of Contrave. Dr. Patel points out that these foods are packed with “empty calories, high amounts of refined sugars and sodium, as well as endocrine-disrupting chemicals.”
Research consistently links regular consumption of processed foods—including fast food, chips, pastries, and pre-packaged snacks—to negative health outcomes. A comprehensive meta-analysis involving over 334,000 participants revealed a strong correlation between ultra-processed food intake and an increased risk of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and obesity. These foods not only undermine the weight loss benefits of Contrave but may also exacerbate side effects like nausea and stomach upset. By eliminating or significantly reducing processed foods, you create a healthier internal environment that supports both weight loss and minimizes discomfort while on Contrave.
2. Caffeine: A Potential Risk Factor for Seizures
Bupropion, a key component of Contrave, carries a potential risk of seizures. Studies indicate that caffeine can also elevate seizure risk in susceptible individuals. Therefore, Angela Ginn-Meadow advises caution with caffeine intake while using Contrave. This recommendation involves significantly limiting or completely avoiding caffeinated beverages such as coffee, soda, and energy drinks.
The combined effect of bupropion and caffeine may increase neurological excitability, making it crucial to minimize caffeine consumption to safeguard against potential adverse effects. Choosing caffeine-free alternatives ensures you are proactively managing potential risks associated with Contrave.
3. Fatty and Greasy Foods: Increased Side Effects and Health Concerns
Consuming high-fat meals while taking Contrave is explicitly contraindicated as it can elevate the risk of seizures. This is a critical warning from medical professionals and is supported by research. Beyond the immediate dose timing, it’s advisable to limit fatty and greasy foods throughout the day. Ginn-Meadow explains that “consuming foods high in fat can increase the likelihood of experiencing nausea,” a common side effect of Contrave.
Furthermore, foods rich in saturated fats are detrimental to cardiovascular health and can impede weight loss efforts. Ginn-Meadow recommends limiting or avoiding fried foods, high-fat meats (bacon, sausage, spare ribs, marbled meats, and poultry skin), full-fat dairy products (heavy cream, butter, cheese), and cream-based sauces and dressings. While eggs are generally considered a healthy source of protein and fats, their relatively high fat content (approximately 5 grams per egg) might warrant reduced consumption while on Contrave. Opting for leaner protein sources and low-fat cooking methods will support both your weight loss goals and overall health while taking Contrave.
4. Foods High in Refined Sugar: Undermining Weight Loss Efforts
Sugary foods, such as candy, cakes, sugary drinks like soda and sweetened lattes, should be minimized or avoided while on Contrave. While sugar doesn’t directly interact with the medication, it introduces empty calories into your diet. Research demonstrates a clear link between high sugar consumption and the development of overweight and obesity.
If you are using prescription weight loss medication like Contrave, consuming sugary foods directly counteracts the intended benefits by contributing to calorie surplus and hindering progress. Reducing or eliminating refined sugars is essential to allow Contrave to work effectively and to establish healthier eating patterns that support long-term weight management.
What Foods to Embrace on Contrave
Contrave is most effective when used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Dr. Patel recommends a diet “rich in protein, whole grains, fiber, fruits, vegetables, and polyunsaturated fats.”
For individuals with weight-related conditions like Type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol, it’s important to remember that Contrave is specifically for weight loss and not a treatment for these conditions. However, the dietary recommendations for Contrave align well with those for managing blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Focus on filling your plate with whole, unprocessed foods, including:
- Vegetables: A wide variety of non-starchy vegetables.
- Low-sugar fruits: Berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
- Lean proteins: Chicken breast, fish, turkey, beans, and lentils.
- Whole grains: Oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa, and whole-wheat bread.
- Low-fat dairy: Skim milk, low-fat yogurt, and cottage cheese in moderation.
Adopting these dietary habits not only complements the action of Contrave but also fosters sustainable healthy eating habits that can extend beyond medication use.
Alcohol Consumption and Contrave: Proceed with Caution
Limiting or avoiding alcohol while taking Contrave is strongly recommended. Several factors contribute to this advice:
- Potential for Adverse Reactions: The FDA label for Contrave notes instances of neuropsychiatric events (NPEs) when alcohol and Contrave are combined. NPEs can encompass psychosis, seizures, mood alterations, and other serious reactions.
- Reduced Alcohol Tolerance: Antiobesity medications like Contrave can increase sensitivity to alcohol, leading to quicker intoxication, impaired judgment, and increased cravings and sedation.
- Increased Hypoglycemia Risk: Both weight-loss drugs and excessive alcohol intake can independently increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Combining them elevates this risk, potentially leading to dangerously low blood sugar levels.
- Higher Calorie Intake: Alcohol contributes empty calories and can stimulate appetite, leading to increased consumption of calorie-dense foods, which undermines weight loss efforts.
Due to these combined risks, it’s prudent to exercise significant caution or abstain from alcohol while taking Contrave to ensure safety and maximize the medication’s effectiveness.
Managing Gastrointestinal Side Effects of Contrave Through Diet
Contrave, like many weight-loss medications, can cause gastrointestinal side effects. Common GI issues include nausea and constipation. Other potential side effects are dry mouth, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Nausea is the most frequently reported side effect, affecting approximately 33% of participants in clinical trials. Constipation was reported by about 19%, and vomiting by around 11%. Contrave’s appetite-suppressing effect can sometimes contribute to constipation if individuals reduce their fluid intake due to feeling full.
Strategies for managing nausea and constipation include:
- Staying Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Eating Bland Foods: Consuming small portions of bland foods like crackers or dry toast until nausea subsides.
Dr. Patel advises, “Talk to your doctor if you have any side effects on the medication, as with any other medication.” The risk of side effects can vary based on dosage, pre-existing health conditions, and potential drug interactions. Your healthcare provider can recommend appropriate over-the-counter remedies or further medical advice to manage gastrointestinal discomfort or other Contrave side effects.
Finally, Contrave is not suitable for everyone. It is contraindicated for breastfeeding mothers and individuals with a history of eating disorders (anorexia or bulimia). It’s essential to use Contrave under the supervision of a healthcare professional who can assess your medical history, existing conditions, and current medications to ensure its safe and appropriate use.
By understanding which foods to avoid and which to prioritize while taking Contrave, you can significantly enhance your weight loss journey, minimize potential side effects, and cultivate healthier, sustainable eating habits.
