Preserving lean mass during weight loss
Also known as:
Muscle preservation
Practical strategies to limit lean-mass loss with incretin therapy and surgery.
Written and reviewed by Farhan Tahir, MD · Last reviewed
VIDEO LESSON
The issue
Lean mass typically accounts for a meaningful share of total weight lost with any intervention. Functional strength matters more than the scale, especially in older adults.
Recommendations
• Prescribe resistance training alongside medication
• Target protein of about 1.0 to 1.2 g per kg per day or more if renal function allows
• Measure grip strength or chair-stand time periodically
• Consider DXA body composition when available
• Avoid excessively rapid loss in frail or older patients
Pipeline
Agents that preserve muscle during incretin therapy are in clinical trials; none is approved for this use yet.
Key studies and references
Educational content only, written and reviewed by Farhan Tahir, MD. It does not replace individual medical advice. For sudden chest pain, trouble breathing or stroke symptoms, call 911.
AT A GLANCE
Section
Prescribing & monitoring
Also known as
Muscle preservation
Reviewed by
Farhan Tahir, MD
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