What to Eat for Dinner on Mounjaro: Optimizing Your Evening Meal for Success

Introduction

Finding the right rhythm with your diet can feel like a complex puzzle, especially when you’re embarking on a weight loss journey supported by medication like Mounjaro. Many individuals experience a shift in appetite and food preferences, making thoughtful meal planning more crucial than ever. The evening meal, in particular, holds significant importance; it’s not just about satisfying hunger, but about fueling your body optimally for sustained well-being and reinforcing the benefits of your treatment.

The active ingredient in Mounjaro, Tirzepatide, works in remarkable ways to help regulate blood sugar and support weight management. By acting on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, it influences everything from insulin release and sensitivity to gastric emptying and appetite signals in the brain. This creates a powerful opportunity for individuals to partner with the medication through strategic dietary choices. However, with reduced appetite and potential digestive changes, the question often arises: what exactly should you eat to maximize Mounjaro’s effectiveness while ensuring your body receives all the necessary nutrients?

At TrimRx, our journey began with a shared vision: to help individuals embrace healthier lifestyles by merging cutting-edge telehealth innovations with effective, science-backed weight loss solutions. We understand that sustainable weight loss should be achieved through science, empathy, and a transparent approach. This means providing not just medication, but comprehensive support and guidance on every aspect of your health journey, including dietary optimization.

This post will serve as your authoritative guide, diving deep into the principles and practicalities of crafting ideal dinners while on Mounjaro. We will explore the key food groups to prioritize, offer concrete meal ideas, and discuss how to adapt your eating habits to manage potential side effects effectively. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to make your evening meals a powerful ally in your pursuit of lasting health and weight loss, complementing the benefits of your Mounjaro treatment. We’ll outline a pathway to empower you with choices that are both nutritious and satisfying, ensuring your journey is as smooth and successful as possible.

Understanding Mounjaro and Its Synergy with Diet

Mounjaro, containing the active ingredient Tirzepatide, is a dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist. This means it mimics the action of two natural hormones, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), which play critical roles in metabolic regulation. Initially approved for managing type 2 diabetes, Tirzepatide has also shown significant efficacy in supporting weight loss, leading to the approval of Zepbound specifically for chronic weight management.

The mechanism behind Mounjaro’s effectiveness is multifaceted. It stimulates insulin release from the pancreas when blood sugar levels are high, helps improve the body’s sensitivity to insulin, and reduces the production of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar. Beyond blood sugar control, Mounjaro significantly impacts appetite and satiety. It slows down gastric emptying, meaning food stays in your stomach longer, contributing to a feeling of fullness. Furthermore, it influences brain signals that regulate hunger, leading to reduced food intake and cravings.

Given these profound physiological effects, the role of diet cannot be overstated. Mounjaro creates an environment conducive to weight loss by reducing hunger and making it easier to eat less. However, it doesn’t dictate what you eat. This is where strategic dietary choices become paramount. A thoughtful diet plan focused on nutrient-dense, whole foods works in concert with Mounjaro to:

• Stabilize Blood Sugar Levels: By choosing foods that release glucose slowly, you help Mounjaro maintain steady blood sugar.
• Enhance Satiety: High-fiber and high-protein foods amplify the feeling of fullness already induced by the medication, preventing overeating.
• Preserve Muscle Mass: Adequate protein intake is vital to protect lean muscle tissue during weight loss, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy metabolism.
• Manage Side Effects: Certain food choices can either exacerbate or alleviate common gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea or constipation.
• Ensure Nutrient Adequacy: With a reduced appetite, every calorie needs to count, emphasizing foods rich in essential vitamins and minerals.

At TrimRx, our personalized approach recognizes that medication is one powerful tool within a broader, holistic strategy. We believe in empowering individuals with the knowledge and resources to make informed dietary decisions that complement their treatment. Our platform is a user-friendly and supportive space where individuals receive personalized, medically supervised care—all designed to make sustainable weight loss attainable and tailored to the individual.

To explore how Mounjaro or other prescription weight loss medications, like Compounded Semaglutide, Oral Semaglutide, Ozempic®, Compounded Tirzepatide, Oral Tirzepatide, Zepbound®, and Wegovy®, might fit into your health plan, we encourage you to take our free assessment quiz to see if you qualify for our personalized weight loss programs.

The Foundational Principles of a Mounjaro-Friendly Dinner

When considering what to eat for dinner on Mounjaro, the overarching principle is to build a balanced, nutrient-dense meal that supports satiety, stable blood sugar, and overall well-being. This becomes even more critical with Mounjaro’s effects on appetite and digestion. We advocate for a “balanced plate” model, ensuring you get all the essential macronutrients and micronutrients, even with smaller portion sizes.

The Balanced Plate Model for Optimal Dinner Planning

A truly effective dinner while on Mounjaro should consistently follow a balanced plate approach, typically composed of:

• Half your plate (approximately 50%): Non-starchy vegetables. These are your powerhouse for fiber, vitamins, minerals, and hydration, with minimal calories.
• A quarter of your plate (approximately 25-30%): Lean protein. Essential for muscle preservation, prolonged satiety, and metabolic health.
• A quarter of your plate (approximately 20-25%): Complex carbohydrates. These provide sustained energy and additional fiber, without causing sharp blood sugar spikes.
• A small portion (thumb-sized): Healthy fats. Integral for nutrient absorption, hormone production, and enhancing flavor and satiety.

This visual guide simplifies meal construction, ensuring your evening meal is robustly nutritious without requiring tedious calorie counting, which we find is often less sustainable and more stressful than focusing on food quality.

Prioritizing Lean Protein: The Cornerstone of Your Dinner

Protein is undeniably the most crucial macronutrient when you’re on a weight loss medication like Mounjaro. It digests slowly, which works synergistically with Mounjaro’s effect on gastric emptying to keep you feeling full for longer. More importantly, adequate protein intake helps preserve valuable muscle mass, which can otherwise be lost during periods of significant weight reduction. Muscle is metabolically active tissue, meaning it burns more calories even at rest, so preserving it is key to maintaining a healthy metabolism long-term.

Aim for approximately 30-40 grams of protein at dinner. For many, this translates to about the size of your palm or a deck of cards for animal proteins. Excellent lean protein choices for dinner include:

• Poultry: Skinless chicken breast or turkey (roasted, grilled, baked).
• Fish and Seafood: Salmon, cod, halibut, shrimp, scallops. Oily fish like salmon also provide beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.
• Lean Red Meats: Occasional lean cuts of beef or pork, trimmed of visible fat.
• Plant-Based Proteins: Tofu, tempeh, lentils, beans, edamame. These are also excellent sources of fiber.
• Eggs: Can be incorporated into lighter dinner options like frittatas or quiches.

For individuals weighing around 185 pounds (approximately 84 kg), a daily protein target might range from 84 to 101 grams (1.0 to 1.2 grams per kilogram of body weight). Distributing this intake throughout your day, with a significant portion at dinner, is a smart strategy to maintain muscle and manage appetite.

Abundant Fiber from Vegetables and Fruits: Filling Your Plate with Power

Non-starchy vegetables should constitute the largest portion of your dinner plate. They are incredibly low in calories but rich in fiber, which aids digestion, adds bulk to your meal, and contributes significantly to satiety. The high water content in vegetables also supports hydration, an often-overlooked aspect of weight management.

Examples of excellent non-starchy vegetables for dinner include:

• Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, rocket, Swiss chard.
• Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts.
• Colorful Vegetables: Bell peppers (all colors), zucchini, asparagus, green beans, mushrooms, tomatoes, onions, carrots.

Fruits, while important, are often better suited for earlier in the day or as a small dessert, due to their natural sugar content. However, berries can be a great addition to a light salad or incorporated into a small, healthy dessert.

Smart Carbohydrate Choices: Sustained Energy, Not Spikes

Complex carbohydrates provide essential energy and dietary fiber. Unlike refined carbohydrates, which are quickly digested and can lead to blood sugar spikes and subsequent crashes, complex carbs are absorbed slowly. This sustained energy release is crucial for preventing cravings, maintaining steady energy levels, and working effectively with Mounjaro to manage blood sugar.

When selecting carbohydrates for dinner, focus on whole grains and starchy vegetables in controlled portions:

• Whole Grains: Brown rice, quinoa, farro, bulgur, whole wheat pasta, oats (though usually a breakfast item, can be in savory dishes).
• Starchy Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, butternut squash.

The key is moderation. A quarter of your plate is typically sufficient for these energy-dense foods, particularly at dinner.

Including Healthy Fats: Small but Mighty

Healthy fats are vital for numerous bodily functions, including hormone production and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). They also play a significant role in satiety and can help regulate blood sugar when consumed with carbohydrates. While Mounjaro may alter individual tolerance for fatty foods, a small portion of healthy fats is generally beneficial.

Consider these sources for your dinner:

• Avocado: Sliced or mashed.
• Nuts and Seeds: A small handful as a garnish (e.g., almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, flax seeds).
• Olive Oil: Used for cooking or as a dressing.

Observe how your body responds to fats while on Mounjaro. If you experience digestive discomfort, you may need to reduce your fat intake slightly, but don’t eliminate it entirely without professional guidance.

Our dedication at TrimRx extends beyond just providing access to effective medication. We are committed to offering clear, transparent guidance on how to integrate these powerful tools into a truly sustainable, healthy lifestyle. This holistic approach is why we emphasize the power of nutrition alongside medications like Mounjaro, Zepbound®, and Wegovy® (which are FDA-approved), or our compounded Semaglutide and Tirzepatide (which are provided through FDA-registered and inspected pharmacies).

Crafting Your Ideal Dinner: What to Eat for Dinner on Mounjaro

Now that we understand the foundational principles, let’s translate them into actionable dinner ideas. The goal is to create delicious, satisfying, and Mounjaro-friendly evening meals that support your weight loss and health goals.

Practical Dinner Ideas Focusing on Lean Protein

Lean protein should be the star of your dinner plate, ensuring you feel full and satisfied without overeating.

• Baked Salmon with Roasted Asparagus and Quinoa:
  • Protein: A generous portion of baked salmon, rich in omega-3s.
  • Vegetables: A large serving of roasted asparagus, perhaps with some bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrients.
  • Carbohydrate: A small portion of quinoa or brown rice.
  • Healthy Fat: A drizzle of olive oil on the vegetables and salmon.
  • Why it works: This meal is nutrient-dense, high in protein and fiber, and uses healthy fats. The slow-digesting quinoa supports stable blood sugar.
• Lean Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles and Marinara:
  • Protein: Turkey meatballs (made with lean ground turkey, herbs, and a minimal binder like oat flour).
  • Vegetables: Zucchini noodles (zoodles) provide a high-fiber, low-carb alternative to pasta, generously topped with a homemade, low-sugar marinara sauce.
  • Healthy Fat: A small amount of olive oil used in the sauce or to sauté the meatballs.
  • Why it works: A satisfying meal that cuts down on refined carbs while still feeling comforting. High in protein and vegetables, it’s gentle on the stomach.
• Chicken and Vegetable Stir-fry with Brown Rice:
  • Protein: Slices of lean chicken breast.
  • Vegetables: A colorful medley of broccoli, snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
  • Carbohydrate: A moderate portion of brown rice.
  • Healthy Fat: Cooked with a minimal amount of sesame oil or avocado oil.
  • Why it works: Customizable, packed with vegetables, and provides sustained energy. Use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari.
• Lentil Shepherd’s Pie with Cauliflower Mash Topping and Side Salad:
  • Protein/Fiber: A hearty base of lentils cooked with carrots, celery, and peas in a savory vegetable broth.
  • Vegetables: Topped with a creamy cauliflower mash instead of potatoes, and served with a large green side salad.
  • Healthy Fat: A touch of olive oil in the mash or salad dressing.
  • Why it works: A plant-forward, fiber-rich meal that’s incredibly filling and nutritious.
• Sheet Pan Chicken with Root Vegetables and Greens:
  • Protein: Chicken thighs (skin removed for leaner option) or chicken breast.
  • Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables like sweet potato chunks and parsnips (in moderation), alongside abundant non-starchy vegetables like Brussels sprouts and red onions. Serve with a side of steamed spinach or kale.
  • Healthy Fat: Roasted with a light coating of olive oil.
  • Why it works: Easy to prepare, nutrient-packed, and allows for even cooking and minimal cleanup.
• Tofu and Mixed Vegetable Curry:
  • Protein: Firm tofu, pan-fried or baked until golden.
  • Vegetables: A rich curry with spinach, cauliflower, green beans, and bell peppers.
  • Carbohydrate: A small serving of brown rice on the side.
  • Healthy Fat: Made with light coconut milk and a hint of a healthy oil.
  • Why it works: Flavorful, plant-based, and rich in fiber. Portion control of the coconut milk is key.

Reflective Engagement: Making Dinner Your Own

How can you creatively combine these elements to make your dinners both nutritious and exciting? Consider experimenting with different herbs, spices, and cooking methods. For instance, a simple grilled chicken can be transformed with a sprinkle of cumin and paprika, or a squeeze of fresh lemon and dill. Remember, variety is key to maintaining interest and ensuring a broad spectrum of nutrients.

We recognize that dietary adjustments are an ongoing process. To further support your journey, consider our GLP-1 Daily Support or Weight Loss Boost supplements. These quick-access supplements are designed to complement your efforts by providing additional nutritional support for overall wellness during your weight loss journey.

Navigating Challenges: Managing Side Effects Through Dinner Choices

While Mounjaro is highly effective, some individuals may experience gastrointestinal side effects, particularly during the initial phases of treatment or with dosage adjustments. These can include nausea, constipation, or a heightened sense of fullness. Thoughtful dinner choices can significantly help in managing these symptoms. Our compassionate care respects every individual’s unique journey, and we want to equip you with practical strategies.

Addressing Nausea with Dinner Choices

Nausea is one of the most common side effects of GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists. If you’re experiencing it around dinner time, consider these strategies:

• Opt for Bland, Easily Digestible Foods: Think simple baked chicken, plain steamed fish, well-cooked plain rice, or soft, non-acidic vegetables like cooked carrots or zucchini. Avoid anything heavily spiced, fried, or overly rich.
• Smaller Portions, Slower Eating: Mounjaro slows gastric emptying, so large meals can sit in your stomach uncomfortably. Eating smaller, more frequent meals, or simply a smaller dinner, can help. Chew thoroughly and eat slowly.
• Avoid Greasy, Spicy, and High-Sugar Foods: These can aggravate nausea. Fatty foods, in particular, take longer to digest and can worsen feelings of discomfort and fullness. Sugary foods can also lead to digestive upset for some.
• Room Temperature or Cool Foods: Sometimes, hot, aromatic foods can trigger nausea. A chilled chicken salad (with lean protein and plenty of veggies) or a cold soup can be more palatable.
• Stay Hydrated Between Meals: Sipping water, clear broth, or ginger tea throughout the day, and not just with your meal, can aid digestion and alleviate nausea.

Combating Constipation

Mounjaro’s effect on gut motility can sometimes lead to constipation. Your dinner can be a great opportunity to increase fiber and fluid intake.

• Gradually Increase Fiber: Incorporate more fiber-rich non-starchy vegetables (like leafy greens, broccoli, Brussels sprouts) and whole grains (quinoa, brown rice, lentils) into your dinner. Sudden, drastic increases in fiber can sometimes worsen symptoms, so introduce them steadily.
• Ensure Adequate Fluid Intake: Hydration is paramount for healthy bowel function. Make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day, not just at dinner.
• Include Healthy Fats: While rich fats can cause nausea, a moderate amount of healthy fats (like those from avocado or olive oil) can help lubricate the digestive tract.

Managing Decreased Appetite and Early Fullness

While a reduced appetite is a desired effect for weight loss, it can sometimes make it challenging to consume enough nutrients.

• Focus on Nutrient Density: Every bite counts. Prioritize foods that pack the most nutritional punch per calorie, as outlined in our balanced plate model.
• Don’t Skip Meals: Even if your appetite is low, try to eat a small, protein-rich meal. Skipping meals can lead to nutrient deficiencies and potential energy crashes later.
• Prioritize Protein First: If you find you can’t finish your entire dinner, focus on consuming the protein portion first to ensure muscle preservation and satiety.
• Smaller, More Frequent Meals: If traditional dinner portions are too overwhelming, consider splitting your evening meal into two smaller, earlier “mini-dinners.”

Remember, our brand is empathetic, innovative, trustworthy, supportive, results-oriented, and personalized. We offer compassionate care that respects every individual’s unique journey. While TrimRx partners with FDA-registered and inspected pharmacies for the shipping of weight loss medications and does not provide actual medical supervision, our comprehensive service includes doctor consultations, medication, lab work, unlimited support, and shipping with no hidden fees. If you’re struggling with persistent side effects, always consult your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian.

Meal Preparation and Planning for Dinner Success

One of the most effective strategies for maintaining a healthy diet while on Mounjaro is robust meal preparation. Mounjaro can sometimes leave you with less energy for cooking, or your appetite might be unpredictable. Having nutritious, ready-to-eat options for dinner can make all the difference.

Smart Strategies for Effortless Dinners

• Batch Cook Proteins: Dedicate time once or twice a week to cook larger quantities of lean protein. Grill or bake several chicken breasts, boil a dozen eggs, or prepare a batch of lean turkey meatballs. These can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen in individual portions for longer. This way, you always have a readily available protein component for your dinner.
• Pre-Cut and Portion Vegetables: After grocery shopping, spend a short time washing and chopping your non-starchy vegetables. Store them in airtight containers. This significantly reduces prep time during the week, making it easier to whip up a stir-fry or add a large side salad to your dinner.
• Utilize Your Freezer Wisely: Soups, stews, and curries (like the lentil or tofu curry mentioned earlier) are excellent candidates for batch cooking and freezing. Portion them into single servings before freezing. On a low-energy evening, simply thaw and reheat a nutritious dinner.
• Maintain Backup Meal Components: Keep a few simple, non-perishable or long-lasting items on hand for those days when cooking feels impossible. This could include canned wild salmon, pre-cooked lentil pouches, frozen mixed vegetables, or whole grain wraps. Combining these with a fresh element like a handful of spinach can create a quick, balanced dinner.
• Time Your Meal Prep Strategically: Consider your energy levels. Many Mounjaro users find their energy is higher in the mornings. If that’s you, you might do some dinner prep then, or even prepare a complete dinner that can be easily reheated later.
• Embrace Flexibility and Experimentation: Your food preferences might shift while on Mounjaro. Stay open to new flavors and combinations. Experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance palatability without adding unnecessary calories or unhealthy fats. If a rich, heavy meal suddenly feels unappealing, pivot to something lighter like a large protein-packed salad.

Meal prep not only ensures you have healthy dinner options but also removes the decision fatigue that can often lead to less optimal food choices when you’re tired or short on time. It empowers you to stay consistent with your dietary goals.

For ongoing support and to ensure your body receives comprehensive nutritional reinforcement during your weight loss journey, explore our targeted quick-access supplements. Our GLP-1 Daily Support is formulated to complement your GLP-1 regimen, while our Weight Loss Boost offers additional aid to your metabolism.

Beyond Dinner: A Holistic Approach with TrimRx

Understanding what to eat for dinner on Mounjaro is a vital component of your weight loss journey, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. At TrimRx, we believe in a comprehensive, personalized approach to health and weight management that extends far beyond a single meal.

Our journey began with a shared vision to help individuals embrace healthier lifestyles by merging cutting-edge telehealth innovations with effective weight loss solutions. We understand that sustainable weight loss is a deeply personal endeavor, requiring not just effective tools, but also robust support and a clear, transparent pathway. Our platform is a user-friendly and supportive space where individuals receive personalized, medically supervised care—all designed to make sustainable weight loss attainable and tailored to the individual.

We believe that sustainable weight loss should be achieved through science, empathy, and a transparent approach. This commitment is reflected in every aspect of our service. When we promote our weight loss products, such as Mounjaro®, Zepbound®, and Wegovy® (which are FDA-approved), or our compounded Semaglutide and Tirzepatide, we ensure transparency. It’s important to clarify that our compounded medications are provided through FDA-registered, inspected, and approved pharmacies, ensuring quality and safety. While TrimRx partners with these pharmacies for the shipping of weight loss medications and does not provide actual medical supervision, our comprehensive service is designed to cover all the bases. This includes thorough doctor consultations to assess your eligibility and health profile, necessary lab work to guide your treatment, the medication itself (shipped directly to you), and unlimited support from our team—all with no hidden fees. Our approach remains consistent, regardless of dosage changes, emphasizing our commitment to clear, honest service.

We know that true success comes from integrating medication with healthy lifestyle choices, including diet, exercise, and mental well-being. This is why we empower you with information like what we’ve discussed today, complementing it with access to a personalized treatment plan if you qualify.

Are you ready to take the next step towards a healthier you? Discover how our personalized programs can support your unique goals. We invite you to take our free assessment quiz to see if you qualify for our prescription weight loss medications. This quiz is designed to help us understand your needs and determine the most appropriate path for you.

Conclusion

Mastering what to eat for dinner on Mounjaro is a powerful step towards optimizing your weight loss journey and overall well-being. By focusing on a balanced plate rich in lean proteins, an abundance of non-starchy vegetables, moderate complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats, you can enhance Mounjaro’s effectiveness, manage potential side effects, and ensure your body receives vital nutrients. Remember to prioritize protein for satiety and muscle preservation, embrace fiber for digestive health, and make smart carbohydrate choices for sustained energy. Practical meal preparation strategies can further simplify your routine, making healthy eating a consistent, manageable part of your daily life.

At TrimRx, our core mission is to empower you with the tools and knowledge for sustainable weight loss. We stand by our commitment to science, empathy, and transparent care, offering medically supervised, personalized solutions. We believe that with the right guidance and support, achieving your health goals is not just a possibility, but an attainable reality.

As you continue on your path, remember that consistent effort in planning your meals, especially dinner, contributes significantly to your success. If you’re seeking additional support to complement your weight loss journey, consider incorporating our GLP-1 Daily Support or Weight Loss Boost into your routine. These quick-access supplements are designed to provide foundational nutritional support for overall wellness.

To explore how a personalized, medically supervised weight loss program could transform your life, we encourage you to take our free assessment quiz to see if you qualify for our prescription weight loss medications. Let us be your supportive partner in building a healthier, happier future.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much protein do I need daily while taking Mounjaro?

While on Mounjaro, we generally recommend aiming for 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of your body weight daily. For example, an individual weighing 75 kg (approximately 165 lbs) would target 90 to 120 grams of protein spread throughout the day. This higher protein intake is crucial for preserving muscle mass during weight loss, enhancing satiety, and supporting overall metabolic health.

Do I need to count calories while on Mounjaro?

Calorie counting is generally not necessary or emphasized when taking Mounjaro. The medication naturally helps regulate appetite and can make it easier to control portion sizes. Instead of tracking numbers, we encourage focusing on the quality of your food and adopting a “balanced plate” approach for each meal. Prioritizing lean proteins, non-starchy vegetables, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates will usually be more effective and sustainable than meticulous calorie tracking.

Will my food preferences change while on Mounjaro?

Many individuals report changes in food preferences while taking Mounjaro. You might find that previously tempting high-sugar, greasy, or heavily processed foods become less appealing or even cause digestive discomfort. Some people also notice a shift in their tolerance for spicy or rich foods. These changes are a normal part of the medication’s effect on appetite and can often support healthier food choices, helping you naturally gravitate towards more nutritious options.

What if I experience persistent side effects that impact my ability to eat dinner?

If you experience persistent nausea, severe fullness, or other side effects that make it difficult to eat adequate dinner portions, it’s essential to communicate with your healthcare provider. They may suggest dosage adjustments for your Mounjaro, recommend anti-nausea medications, or provide further strategies to manage symptoms. In the meantime, focus on consuming smaller, more frequent meals with bland, easily digestible foods, and ensure you stay well-hydrated. Our comprehensive service includes unlimited support, allowing you to discuss these concerns and seek guidance.