In the last few years, the weight loss breakthrough of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic has had a significant impact. In 2024, for the first time in more than a decade, obesity numbers dipped. A study published in the journal JAMA Health Forum showed that obesity in the United States is declining. Experts point to the use of GLP-1 medications as a possible reason for this change.
Though the medical profession encourages weight loss to alleviate joint stress and symptoms of some illnesses, there are some adverse side effects. GLP-1 related weight loss has been shown to weaken bones and muscles, especially if the loss is rapid.
GLP-1 Medications and Weight Loss
GLP-1 medications were first developed to treat Type 2 diabetics. They mimic the hormone GLP-1 that the body naturally produces, which regulates blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. The medication induces the pancreas to release more insulin when food is consumed, thus preventing the body from releasing too much glucose.
Combined, these two processes lower blood sugar, keeping it under control. This is very helpful to Type 2 diabetics whose bodies aren’t capable of controlling blood sugar.
Additionally, GLP-1 medications slow digestion and the speed at which the stomach empties, reducing the appetite for some time after meals. The side effect of these medications is weight loss. The FDA has approved GLP-1 medications specifically for weight loss.
GLP-1 medications can result in rapid weight loss for some, though not all. Those with fast weight loss may suffer a loss of bone density and muscle. Reduction in bone mass is a concern because it can lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis and possible fractures.
Sarcopenia, the loss of muscle, is also a potential adverse side effect of rapid weight loss. Though it happens naturally as people age, lean muscle mass can be lost when calories are reduced and insufficient protein is consumed.
Those who experience these two side effects should take action to counter them.
A Holistic Approach
While taking GLP-1 medications, people should monitor their protein intake to reduce muscle loss. Too little protein is the main reason people lose lean muscle during weight loss. Protein intake can be adversely affected by the reduced calories consumed while on GLP-1 medications. Eating a proper amount of protein is essential to counter muscle loss.
Additionally, strength and resistance training are essential to help mitigate the loss of muscle and bone. There are ways to embrace a lifestyle change through a program like OsteoStrong, based on clinical research, and a non-pharmaceutical treatment for increasing bone density and muscle strength.
It emphasizes a holistic approach to bone health through nutrition and physical activity and encourages a well-balanced diet with weight-bearing exercises. It is a proactive way to deal with the aftereffects of quick weight loss.
“Created based on research in cellular biology, anti-aging, longevity, and bone mass production, the OsteoStrong system triggers the growth of new bone and muscle density in 10-minute sessions just once per week,” Kyle Zagrodzky, CEO and Founder of OsteoStrong, explains.
People who have lost bone density and muscle mass or are worried about this occurring shouldn’t despair. There are ways to be proactive about reversing or reducing the effects of rapid weight loss.