GLP-1 Therapy in Type 2 Diabetes: Weight Loss at the Cost of Muscle and Nutritional Health.
A recent retrospective observational study examined adults with type 2 diabetes treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists and found important nutritional and body composition concerns alongside weight loss.
"Over 20 % had nutritional deficiencies diagnosed within one-year of starting GLP-1RA treatment."
Key points
Use of GLP-1 receptor agonists was associated with loss of lean muscle mass, not just fat mass.
Many patients showed micronutrient deficiencies, reflecting reduced overall food intake and altered dietary patterns during treatment.
Muscle loss raises concerns about functional decline, frailty risk, and metabolic health, particularly in older adults and those with comorbidities.
The findings highlight that weight loss alone should not be the sole treatment goal in T2D management.
Why it matters While GLP-1 receptor agonists are effective for glycaemic control and weight reduction, this study underscores the need for nutritional monitoring, adequate protein intake, resistance exercise, and individualized care to protect muscle mass and prevent deficiencies.
According to this study, GLP-1 therapy should be paired with intentional nutrition and muscle-preserving strategies to ensure safer, more sustainable outcomes for people with type 2 diabetes.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667368125000300?via%3Dihub
