With the launch of popular GLP-1 weight loss drugs like Wegovy (Semaglutide) and Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) in India, medical weight loss is booming.

But when these drugs have shown dramatic results by helping 15–21% of their body weight to shed, experts took care that completely relying on the drug could come at a cost.

A new publication by doctors at Mass General Brigham, which is the largest hospital-based research enterprise in the US and is affiliated to the Harvard Medical School, shows how a structured nutrition and exercise scheme can aid in long-term success, can avoid muscle loss, and reduce unpleasant side effects.

Missing link: muscle and food

While GLP-1 drugs work by pressing appetite, slowing down digestion and increasing perfection, they can also damage the mass of lean muscles, not only fat. This makes protein intake and muscle maintenance necessary.

Guidance advises patients to start each meal with 20-30 grams of protein from sources such as fish, tofu, chickpeas, or eggs.

The daily target of body weight per kilogram of 1 to 1.5 grams of protein is recommended to those who are modestly active. For very low hunger patients, protein shakes with at least 20 grams per serving.

To avoid energy accidents, small food is recommended with healthy snacks such as fruits, nuts, or unheard yogurt.

Slow -digested carbohydrates such as sweet potato and porridge are preferred on refined grains and sugars foods.

Healthy fats such as olive oil and avocado can also help improve satisfaction and nutritional absorption.

Side effect management starts in the kitchen

GLP-1 drugs are known to cause digestive side effects, including nausea, resentment and constipation. The publication is to minimize clear, practical suggestions:

• For nausea, avoid high fat or smooth foods. Choose the whole grain toast such as a brand option and try ginger tea or fruit.
• For resentment, eat small portions and avoid lying for 2-3 hours after meals.
• For constipation, enhance both soluble and insoluble fiber (from oats, apples, vegetable skins, nuts), paired with lots of water.

With hydrating foods such as watermelon, soup, and cucumbers, mainly a target for water, mainly 2-3 liters of water.

Importantly, extreme calorie restrictions while GLP-1 is discouraged on drugs, as it can impair fatigue, dehydration and deficiencies of nutrients.

Writers also recommend caution with highly restrictive diet, which includes strict vegetarian schemes that may lead to vitamin B12, iron and protein deficiency.

Why exercise still matters

Although GLP-1 drugs reduce appetite and promote weight loss, physical activity is important to maintain results and maintain health. The author recommends three-step exercise scheme:

• Start slower: Start 10 minutes of fast walking or other medium activity per day and manufacture up to 150 minutes per week.
• Add resistance: Shakti training (eg, squats, lungs, bands, or weight) should be done weekly for 30 minutes 2-3 times.
• maintain: Continue with regular strength training -30-60 minutes of daily activity.

This structured routine helps patients to maintain muscle and improve overall well -being, some medicines cannot be done alone.

Guidance also includes practical equipment such as food tracking (apps, photos, or diaries), and also encourages continuous lifestyle changes to prevent the drug, as it helps to lose weight.