If you are on a GLP-1 for weight loss here are the reasons you NEED to lift weights and fuel your body with protein.

1. Preserve Muscle Mass: If you are taking a GLP-1 for weight loss the GLP-1 will reduce your appetite, which leads to decreased calorie intake. If the body doesn’t have adequate muscle mass and you aren’t fueling your body with protein, your body will use your lean body mass (muscle) for fuel.

Why is it bad for your body to use muscle mass for fuel?

It will lower your metabolism making it easier to gain weight back on. It will weaken your strength, reducing your physical function, and can harm your blood sugar regulation causing diabetes 2. Your immune system suffers with less muscle mass as well. You are able to fight off virus’s and sickness much easier with adequate muscle mass.

How do you preserve muscle mass?

1. Strength Training: Engaging in resistance training at least 2-3 times pre-week creates lean muscle mass signaling your body to retain and build muscle while losing weight.
2. Adequate Protein Intake: Consuming enough HIGH quality protein provides the building blocks your muscle needs to repair and grow, especially when you are eating less calories.
3. Balanced Nutrition: Ensuring your diet is rich in essential nutrients supports muscle health and helps your body prioritize fat loss over muscle breakdown.

If you are on a weight loss journey using GLP-1’s remember your efforts will be most effective when you pair strength training and adequate protein intake. Lifting weights helps you preserve lean muscle mass but boosts your metabolism. Eating high quality protein will ensure your body has the nutrients it needs to repair the muscle you have and the muscle you put on. You will literally maximize your results while on a GLP-1 by strength training and eating adequate protein and you will build a stronger, healthier YOU.