Nowadays, GLP-1 drugs, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, are trending in the market for weight loss. As they help control appetite, lower blood sugar levels, and support sustainable weight loss.
However, if you’ve started taking one, you may wonder, “Can I still build muscle while losing weight on GLP-1 therapy?”
It’s a fair concern.
These drugs reduce appetite, which often means consuming fewer calories and less protein, the very things your muscles need to grow.
However, you can still build muscle while taking GLP-1 medications.
With the right approach, including strength training, proper nutrition, and smart supplementation (such as creatine), you can preserve and even increase lean muscle mass.
Why Muscle Growth Is a Concern for GLP-1 Users
GLP-1 drugs reduce appetite, which is great for fat loss, but they can unintentionally lower your protein and calorie intake. When that happens, your body may burn not just fat, but also lean muscle.
Losing muscle mass isn’t just about aesthetics. Muscle helps maintain metabolism, strength, and mobility as you age.
The goal should be fat loss, not “weight loss at all costs.” Preserving lean tissue is essential for long-term health.
Read more: How Creatine Helps Maintain Muscle While on GLP-1 Therapy
Can You Build Muscle on GLP-1?
Several studies have shown that even in calorie deficits, people can increase muscle mass through proper resistance training and supplementation.
That means, GLP-1 drugs don’t block muscle growth; they just make the margin for error smaller.
Weight loss always involves some muscle loss. But the amount depends on how you train and eat.
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Strength training signals your body to hold onto (and even build) muscle.
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Adequate protein provides the raw materials your body needs to function correctly.
- Creatine and other key nutrients help fill the energy gap when calorie intake is lower.
Tips to Build Muscle on GLP-1
Prioritize Resistance Training
Stick to compound lifts (such as squats, presses, and rows) and use progressive overload to challenge your muscles continually.
Ensure Protein Intake
Aim for 1.2–1.6g of protein per kg of bodyweight. If appetite is low, add a scoop of protein powder to smoothies or Greek yogurt.
Supplement Smartly
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Creatine monohydrate: 5g daily
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Magnesium + Vitamin D3 + K2: for recovery and bone support
- Vitamin B12: if energy dips on GLP-1 therapy
Stay Hydrated
Creatine draws water into muscles, so aim for 2–3 liters of water daily. Hydration also helps offset appetite suppression side effects.
Read more: What Effect Do GLP-1 Drugs Have on Bone Health and Muscle?
Why GLDN Root Creatine + HMB Is the Ideal Choice
You can absolutely build muscle while on GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic.
The key is strength training, proper protein intake, hydration, and smart supplementation support, such as GLDN Root Creatine + HMB, which helps preserve strength, protect muscle, and support overall performance.
Strong muscles mean a stronger, healthier metabolism.
Reference:
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4119845/
- https://www.princetonmedicine.com/blog/building-muscle-while-taking-a-glp-1-medication-yes-its-possible
- https://www.massgeneral.org/news/article/fitness-for-people-taking-glp-1-agonists
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/study-3-strategies-minimize-muscle-loss-glp-1-weight-loss-drugs
- https://www.tctmd.com/news/dont-worry-about-muscle-loss-glp-1-inhibitors-viewpoint-asserts
