Key takeaways
GLP-1 medications change appetite and digestion, so nutrition needs often shift while taking them.
This protocol focuses on protein intake, muscle, bone and heart health during that time.
Protein matters because faster weight loss can include muscle loss, and bone support is included for a similar reason.
GLP-1 medications change appetite and digestion, and many people find that their nutrition needs shift while they take them. I put this protocol together to gather the nutritional products I commonly use to support protein intake, muscle, bone and heart health during that time.
Creating a Fullscript account is free, and you can look through every product before you decide anything.
The mechanisms this protocol supports
GLP-1 medications slow stomach emptying and reduce appetite, which can make it harder to get enough protein, fluids and micronutrients each day. Muscle and bone are living tissues that need protein, minerals and regular loading to stay strong.
Research has linked weight loss, including weight loss on GLP-1 medications, with some loss of lean mass and bone density alongside fat loss. This protocol focuses on nutritional support for lean mass, bone and circulation while you continue to work with the clinician who prescribes your medication.
What is in the protocol
The exact products and directions are listed in the Fullscript plan, and here is what each one is commonly used to support.
- MediClear-SGS Chocolate is a protein-based nutritional shake from Thorne that provides vitamins, minerals and nutrients, which can make it easier to reach your daily protein goals.
- Creatine is commonly used to support muscle strength alongside regular resistance exercise.
- Hawthorn is a traditional botanical that is commonly used to support heart and circulatory health.
- OsteoMedica from NuMedica provides microcrystalline hydroxyapatite, a whole-bone source of calcium, phosphorus and collagen, along with magnesium and vitamin D3.
- Osteo V SC from NuMedica provides strontium citrate, a trace mineral with properties similar to calcium that has been studied for its role in bone remodeling, along with an absorption blend of astragalus, notoginseng and black pepper extracts.
Related protocols you may find helpful include Cellular Energy & Recovery.
How to use it thoughtfully
Please talk with your provider before starting, especially if you take medications, are pregnant or nursing, or have a health condition. This page does not list amounts, so follow the label or the specific guidance your provider gives you. When you can, add one product at a time so it is easier to notice how you feel. Sleep, nourishing food, daily movement and stress care are the foundation, and supplements are meant to build on them.
Please keep your prescribing clinician informed about any supplements you add while taking a GLP-1 medication. Strontium is usually taken apart from calcium-containing products, so follow the timing your provider suggests.
Questions to bring to your clinician
These questions can help you get the most out of your next visit.
How much protein should I aim for while I am on a GLP-1 medication?
Could any of my current medications or supplements interact with the options discussed here?
Would any lab testing add useful information in my situation, or is it reasonable to start with daily habits?
Which one or two changes would be most worthwhile for me to focus on first?
Practitioner-grade options in my Fullscript catalog: if you and your clinician decide a supplement makes sense, my supplement guide by health goal links to the practitioner-grade products I trust.
Frequently asked questions
Why does protein matter on a GLP-1 medication?
Eating less can make it hard to get enough protein, and protein supports the lean muscle that research shows can be lost alongside fat during rapid weight loss.
Why is bone support included?
Rapid weight loss has been linked with changes in bone density, so the protocol includes minerals and cofactors that support normal bone metabolism.
Do I need an appointment to order these products?
No, you can create a free Fullscript account and order directly, although I always recommend checking with your own provider first, and a free 15-minute consult is available if you would like to talk it through.
Sources
- Jalleh RJ, et al. Clinical Consequences of Delayed Gastric Emptying With GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Tirzepatide. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024. PMID: 39418085. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11651700/
- Friedrichsen M, et al. The effect of semaglutide 2.4 mg once weekly on energy intake, appetite, control of eating, and gastric emptying in adults with obesity. Diabetes Obes Metab 2021. PMID: 33269530. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7898914/
- Neeland IJ, Linge J, Birkenfeld AL. Changes in lean body mass with glucagon-like peptide-1-based therapies and mitigation strategies. Diabetes Obes Metab 2024. PMID: 38937282. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38937282/
- Zibellini J, et al. Does Diet-Induced Weight Loss Lead to Bone Loss in Overweight or Obese Adults? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials. J Bone Miner Res 2015. PMID: 26012544. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26012544/
- Chilibeck PD, et al. Effect of creatine supplementation during resistance training on lean tissue mass and muscular strength in older adults: a meta-analysis. Open Access J Sports Med 2017. PMID: 29138605. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5679696/
Ready to see the full protocol?
Every product I use for this protocol is waiting for you in my Fullscript dispensary.
Not sure this is the right fit for you? Book a free 15-minute consult and we can talk it through together.
Educational purposes only. This page shares general information and is not medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and these products are not intended to replace care from your own healthcare provider. Please talk with your provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications, are pregnant or nursing, or have a health condition.
Looking for practitioner-grade options?
The catalog carries third-party-tested, practitioner-grade supplements from brands Dr. Kneessi uses in practice.
See practitioner-grade options in the catalogNot sure what fits? Take the Supplement Quiz →Free: The 28-Day Reset for Energy and Focus
A simple day-by-day email guide to sleep, movement, food, and daily habits that support healthy aging. It’s free, and you can unsubscribe anytime.
Get the free guide Take the supplement quiz