Should I do anything differently if I am taking a GLP-1?

Nutrition Q&A [Moderated]
1

Hello Jordan –

I have been a long-time user of BBM’s templates, supplements, and follower of your content. Thank you for giving me the tools to help accomplish my fitness and nutrition goals!

I have been taking Ozempic for the last four weeks (0.25 mg/week), and it’s been a wonder drug so far. No adverse side effects and my weight has dropped from 192 to 180 lbs (38 y/o male, 6’0 tall). Like you said on a recent podcast, it’s so much easier to implement lifestyle modifications.

My goal current goal is reduce my remaining excess body fat while minimizing muscle loss. I have been assuming that I should follow BBM’s general nutrition advice to maintain a slight deficit while making sure I hit the 1.6 - 3.1 g/kg protein target, keep my fiber intake high, and prioritize fruits and vegetables.

Is there any reason to deviate from that advice while taking Ozempic? In podcast 209, you and Austin briefly mentioned that there was initial evidence from mouse models that that GLP-1 medications affect protein synthesis and uptake. Given that the response was seen in mice, I am assuming that the finding doesn’t have any practical training or nutrition implications. Is that right?

I am also curious if you have any other thoughts on the subject of training while taking a GLP-1.

Thanks!

2

Hey there!

No reason to eat any differently from our standard health-promoting dietary pattern when on GLP-1A and this includes protein intake.

In that podcast, we were discussing the claims that people on these medications may lose more muscle mass, though all the evidence (including mouse models) is to the contrary. In other words, the mouse finding is positive, but even if true in humans, it wouldn’t affect protein recommendations.

I do not think that people on GLP-1A need to train any differently than those without.

-Jordan

3

Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions. I appreciate it, and it’s good to know that I shouldn’t be doing anything differently. Thanks!