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Writer's pictureRenee Storm

"Those drugs cause muscle wasting"

...They can, but here's how Renee's patient's don't.


  • Muscle Loss: Why It Matters


Preserving muscle mass during weight loss is crucial for maintaining overall health and metabolic function. Without adequate support and coaching, weight loss medications may inadvertently contribute to muscle loss, leading to a society of thinner yet more frail individuals.


It's alarming to note that for every pound of fat lost during weight loss, as much as a quarter-pound of muscle can be lost as well. Consider a friend who went on a crash diet and shed 40 pounds in just two months—chances are, approximately 10 pounds of that weight loss comprised muscle tissue. This startling revelation underscores the significance of understanding the consequences of rapid weight loss.


Rebuilding lost muscle is a challenging and time-consuming process. It can take up to a year to regain just 6-8 pounds of lean muscle mass. Not only does muscle loss compromise strength, but it also undermines the ability to maintain weight loss over the long term.

Furthermore, the vicious cycle of weight loss followed by weight regain exacerbates the problem. When individuals regain weight, they often accumulate more body fat and less muscle compared to their initial starting point. As a result, they may find themselves in a cycle where they end up even heavier than when they began their crash diet.


  • So how do individuals maintain their muscle mass in a calorie deficit?


Prioritize Protein: Consuming an adequate amount of protein is essential for preserving muscle mass during weight loss. The body cannot store protein, and insufficient intake may lead to muscle breakdown. Examples of protein-rich foods include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and tofu. Renee Storm, as a healthcare provider, can calculate recommended protein intake and work with individuals to meet their body's requirements.


Engage Your Muscles: Regular resistance or strength training exercises are key to preserving muscle mass while losing weight. Resistance training stimulates muscle protein synthesis and helps maintain muscle mass even in the presence of a caloric deficit. Focus on compound exercises that target multiple muscle groups, such as squats, lunges, yoga, and planks. Muscle engagement does not necessarily require gym equipment—body weight exercises and resistance bands can also be effective and much easier to fit into a busy schedule.


Slow Weight Loss: Evidence suggests that weight loss faster than 1-2 pounds per week can lead to a higher rate of muscle loss. While society often values quick results, prioritizing slow weight loss can help minimize muscle loss and promote sustainable outcomes.


In conclusion, while weight loss medications can be effective tools for achieving weight loss goals, it's essential to prioritize muscle health throughout the process. By implementing strategies such as prioritizing protein intake and engaging in resistance training, individuals can minimize muscle loss and achieve sustainable weight loss results. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional like Renee Storm before starting any weight loss program, especially if using medication, to ensure it is safe and appropriate for individual needs.


About the Author

Renee Storm graduated from the University of South Alabama (Mobile, Alabama) in May 2021 with a dual role as a family nurse practitioner (FNP) and an adult-gerontological acute care nurse practitioner (AGACNP). Board certified as both an FNP and an AGACNP through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), she is licensed in both Washington and Oregon states. An active member of the Obesity Medicine Association and the Washington Obesity Society, Renee enjoys finding ways to incorporate muscle strengthening into daily activities when not working. She also enjoys spending time with her husband of 25 years, her three-legged pit bull, and her boisterous cat.




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