GLP-1 receptor agonists, like Ozempic have brought significant advancements to weight management and diabetes treatment. Yet, while these medications can effectively reduce appetite, they can also make it challenging to get enough protein. Ensuring adequate protein intake is especially important for people using GLP-1 drugs, as it plays a crucial role in several health aspects:
Preserving Lean Muscle Mass
GLP-1 drugs target fat loss effectively but can sometimes lead to a degree of muscle loss due to reduced overall calorie and nutrient intake. Muscle mass isn’t just crucial for physical strength and aesthetics; it also plays a significant role in our body’s metabolic rate, or how many calories we burn at rest. A higher muscle mass means a higher metabolic rate, which is key to maintaining a healthy body weight in the long term. Adequate protein intake is essential in this process, as it provides the necessary amino acids for muscle preservation (Cava et al., 2017). For people on GLP-1 drugs, meeting protein needs ensures that they’re losing fat rather than valuable muscle mass, promoting a more favourable and sustainable body composition.
Enhancing Fullness and Reducing Cravings
Protein is widely recognised as the most satiating macronutrient, meaning it has a stronger impact on feelings of fullness than carbohydrates or fats (Douglas, 2008). For individuals on GLP-1 medications, this is particularly beneficial because GLP-1 drugs naturally reduce appetite, but often without selective targeting. This can sometimes lead to reduced intake of essential nutrients, including protein. By focusing on protein-rich foods, people on GLP-1s can feel fuller for longer periods and minimise cravings for less nutritious foods. This can make it easier to maintain a balanced, nutrient-rich diet while still achieving weight loss goals.
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Supporting Comprehensive Health
Protein is a fundamental building block for many systems within the body. It supports immune function by creating antibodies, helps produce essential hormones and enzymes, and is integral to repairing and rebuilding tissues, including muscle, skin, and organs. During weight loss, especially rapid weight loss, the body may be more susceptible to nutrient deficiencies and muscle breakdown. By ensuring a steady protein intake, people on GLP-1 drugs can support these critical functions, preserving not only muscle mass but also bone health and overall vitality. This is especially important because adequate protein intake can prevent age-related muscle loss, or sarcopenia, and ensure that immune function and tissue health remain robust.
How Much Protein Do You Need?
For individuals on GLP-1 medications, a general guideline is to aim for at least 1 gram of protein per 1kg of body weight. For example:
- A person weighing 70kg would need approximately 70 grams of protein daily.
- Someone weighing 100kg would need about 100 grams of protein daily.
Although, multiple lines of research support the claim that consuming protein higher than the recommended daily amount, offers further benefits and more likely to prevent skeletal muscle mass from fading (Tinsley & Heymsfield, 2024).
Prioritising protein can support your health goals and complement the effects of GLP-1 treatments for sustainable weight management and well-being
How Can Formulite Help?
Formulite products are designed to provide a high-protein boost, which can be especially beneficial for individuals using GLP-1 medications. With formulated low calorie meal replacements with up to 35g of protein per serving, Formulite offers convenient and effective options to help meet daily protein needs. For those on GLP-1 drugs, integrating Formulite into your diet can support muscle preservation, maintain satiety, and aid overall health—all key elements for achieving sustainable weight management. By incorporating Formulite’s high-protein shakes or bars, you can ensure your protein intake aligns with your health goals while on GLP-1 therapy.
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References
– Tinsley, G. M., & Heymsfield, S. B. (2024). Fundamental Body Composition Principles Provide Context for Fat-Free and Skeletal Muscle Loss With GLP-1 RA Treatments. Journal of the Endocrine Society, 2024,, 8(11), 7.
– Douglas, P. J. (2008). Protein, Weight Management and Satiety. The American Journal of CLINICAL NUTRITION, 87(5), 1. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/87.5.1558S
– Cava, E., Yeat, N. C., & Mittendorfer, B. (2017). Preserving Healthy Muscle During Weight loss. Advances in Nutrition, 8(3), 5. https://doi.org/10.3945/an.116.014506
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