Nutrition support whilst on glucagon-like peptide-1 based therapy. Is it necessary?

May 22, 2025Current opinion in clinical nutrition and metabolic care

Is Nutrition Support Needed During Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Therapy?

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Abstract

Up to 40% of total weight loss from antiobesity medications may come from fat-free mass.

  • Weight loss from glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor analogs (GLP-1 RA) can significantly reduce fat-free mass (FFM), which includes nonmuscle components.
  • Skeletal muscle mass (SM) specifically is a concern during weight loss, as loss of muscle can lead to sarcopenia.
  • Resistance training and adequate protein intake may help reduce muscle loss, but evidence regarding their effectiveness alongside GLP-1 RA therapy is mixed.
  • Certain nutrients, such as branched chain amino acids, creatine, leucine, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D, could aid in preserving muscle mass.
  • Emerging treatments like bimagrumab and other activin or myostatin inhibitors may offer new options for maintaining muscle mass while promoting fat loss.

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