Literature reference
Protein on GLP-1: published-guidance reference math
Up to half of weight loss on GLP-1 medications can be non-fat tissue (lean mass and water) per SURMOUNT-1 and STEP-1 DXA data. Published guidance on protein intake while losing weight (ESPEN clinical-nutrition consensus, PROT-AGE study group) sits in the 1.2 to 1.8 g/kg/day range depending on activity and age. This page is editorial commentary on that published literature, not individual clinical advice. Your prescriber and dietitian set the protein target that fits your specific clinical picture. The tool below applies the published ranges to a weight you enter so you can see the math, nothing more.
How to actually hit the number
- · When appetite is suppressed by GLP-1 medication, getting protein from solid food alone can be difficult. A whey or vegan protein supplement (1 to 2 scoops in milk, water, or kefir) is one practical option. Your prescriber and dietitian set the plan that fits your dose and clinical picture.
- · Greek yogurt 0%, cottage cheese, tinned tuna, eggs, tofu, lentils all give 14 to 25 g per serving. See the food list on GLP-1 and protein.
- · Protein bars are 15 to 20 g each but typically come with sugar and added calories. Whole-food + clean shake usually beats two bars per day.
- · Resistance training is the second lever. Without it, even on-target protein cannot fully prevent lean mass loss in a steep calorie deficit.