Why protein is so important during weight loss
Here’s why this nutrient should be a priority — especially during your GLP-1 journey.
Everyone is Team Protein these days, and for good reason: it serves as building blocks for our bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, and blood — and it’s especially important when you’re on a GLP-1. That’s because it helps you better preserve lean muscle mass during weight loss. Of the 20 different amino acids that exist, your body can produce 11 of them on its own, but the other 9 need to come from eating protein.
Why is protein so important on a GLP-1?
When you lose weight, you naturally lose muscle mass along with fat, ultimately slowing metabolism. Protein can help minimize how much muscle you lose, particularly in combination with weight training.
Since GLP-1s curb appetite — meaning people eat less on them — that means you need to pack more nutrition into each bite. So when you are eating, you should make protein a priority.
Learn more about the benefits of strength training
How much do you really need?
There isn’t one protein goal for everyone. The right amount for you depends on body size, age, and how much you exercise. Generally, though, people taking a GLP-1 should have a baseline of at least 1 gram per kilogram of body weight, though you can eat more. The GLP-1 Success Program gives you a goal that’s based on 1 gram per kilogram of your body weight, and then automatically tracks your progress whenever you enter a meal.
You can do that through getting 20 to 30 grams of protein at each meal and about 10 grams with each snack, made up of things like lean cuts of beef and pork, chicken, turkey, fish and other seafood, eggs, nuts, seeds, soy products like tofu and tempeh, beans, and lentils.
Learn about more healthy habits to make when you’re on a GLP-1