Could Protein Be Your Muscle’s Best Friend?

A groundbreaking new study reveals that boosting protein intake while using GLP-1 medications for weight loss could be vital in preventing dreaded muscle loss. As many know, muscle loss is a significant side effect of weight reduction, especially linked to medications like Ozempic.

Muscle Loss: The Silent Threat When Shedding Pounds

While trimming down can be rewarding, it can also lead to diminished muscle mass and bone density due to how these medications impact blood sugar management. If you’re considering weight loss solutions, experts strongly recommend discussing protein-rich diets and strength training with your healthcare provider.

The Study Behind the Findings

Presented at the ENDO 2025 conference by researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, the study involved 40 participants using semaglutide, comparing their results to those following standard diet and exercise routines. Miraculously, the semaglutide group experienced greater weight loss over three months.

Demographics Matter: Who Loses Muscle?

However, subjects on semaglutide who lost more muscle than their peers were typically older, female, or maintained lower protein levels during weight loss. "Older adults and women may be at a greater risk of muscle loss, but increasing protein might act as a safeguard," noted lead researcher Dr. Melanie Haines.

Why Muscle Health is Crucial

Dr. Haines warned that losing muscle can disrupt blood sugar management—critical for overall bone health. While these findings are promising, they are yet to be published in a peer-reviewed journal and warrant further exploration.

Understanding the Risks of Weight Loss Drugs

Previous studies have linked GLP-1 drugs to reduced muscle mass, diminished bone density, and lower metabolism, raising concerns about sarcopenia, a condition characterized by muscle loss and functional decline. Experts like Dr. Kais Rona emphasize that muscles, needing more energy to maintain than fat, are more prone to breakdown during weight loss.

Meds That Melt Away the Pounds

Originally designed for diabetes, GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy have soared in popularity for their weight loss capabilities. These appetite suppressants effectively reduce food intake by slowing gut function, but this may inadvertently lower protein consumption.

The Crucial Role of Protein

"Proteins are essential for muscle maintenance, and a lack of them can lead to muscle degeneration," Dr. Rona explained. To counteract this, he advocates for a protein intake of 1.2 to 1.5 grams per kilogram of body weight, emphasizing the importance of strength training alongside.

Expert Advice on Muscle Preservation

Registered dietitian Michelle Routhenstein echoes this sentiment, stating that higher protein and strength training synergize to stimulate muscle-protein synthesis, minimizing muscle loss during weight reduction. Lean proteins not only assist in weight management but also support muscle conservation.

Make Protein a Priority!

Dr. Rona concludes that protein is a game-changer for anyone looking to uphold muscle health while managing weight. High-protein diets can curb hunger, enhance satiety, and boost metabolism. If you're on a weight loss journey with GLP-1 medications, make sure protein is at the forefront of your plan!