High-Protein Diet Benefits

Why should protein be an important part of your diet while you are losing weight? And, most importantly, why should you consider it while you are on semaglutide or tirzepatide? 

For so many reasons!  

First, you may know that semalgutide and tirzepatide are synthetic glucagon-like peptides (GLP-1).  Dietary protein increases the secretion of your body’s natural GLP-1, which leads to a decrease in appetite, better blood sugar control, and improved insulin secretion.  All very important components for losing weight and maintaining weight loss!  

In addition, eating a high-protein diet, along with resistance training, aids in the development of muscle mass.  Higher muscle mass improves your resting metabolism and allows you to look more fit and toned, and hopefully avoid what some have facetiously termed “Ozempic butt” (i.e. a flatter butt due to a significant decrease in muscle mass from rapid weight loss).  

Lastly, the more muscle you have as you age, the higher quality of life you will have.  You will be less likely to fall or get injured. You will have the strength to lead an active and fulfilling life.

So how do you successfully follow a high-protein diet?  

-Try to eat approximately 0.8 – 1 G of protein per pound of body weight per day (or if your BMI is over 30, eat 0.8-1G of protein per pound of your GOAL weight).  If this is too much when you are first starting, try to slowly increase your total grams each week until you can more easily tolerate the higher amounts.  

-Do not forget to stay in a calorie deficit while eating more protein!  

-Also, hydrate appropriately, and try to consume 25 – 30 G of fiber daily.