Experts have found a simple way to tackle some common side effects of weight loss injections, like losing muscle and changes in appearance. While these weekly injections, often called game-changers, help many people lose weight, they can lead to muscle loss, which might result in issues like poor balance and loose skin.
When the body loses weight quickly, it can break down muscle for energy. This muscle loss can be as much as 39% of total weight loss for some people on these medications, which work by mimicking a hormone that helps you feel full.
To help prevent this muscle loss, specialists recommend increasing protein intake. Dr. Caissa Troutman and Dr. Anila Chadha, U.S.-based obesity experts, suggest at least 30 grams of protein with every meal—about 7 grams more than what most people typically consume. This is similar to having one chicken breast or two cans of chickpeas per meal.
Additionally, the general guideline for protein intake is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight. For example, someone weighing 90 kg should aim for about 70 grams of protein each day, which is equivalent to two chicken breasts.
Exercise is also crucial for maintaining muscle. Dr. Catherine Varney emphasizes that while exercise may not lead to significant weight loss, it’s essential for heart health, mental well-being, and keeping muscle mass intact. Strength training, which includes activities like weight lifting and pilates, is particularly important. Simply walking can also help maintain muscle mass.
Dr. Troutman recommends engaging in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, such as brisk walking. These lifestyle changes can also reduce unwanted cosmetic effects commonly associated with weight loss medications.
Some users have reported issues like “Ozempic face” and “Ozempic butt,” as rapid weight loss can affect areas like the buttocks, which lose fat quickly. This region contains muscle that may shrink without proper diet and exercise, leading to loose skin and changes in body shape.
Social media has highlighted these changes, with videos showing the less desirable effects of weight loss on appearance. These changes are not unique to Ozempic; similar effects can occur with any significant weight loss, including from gastric bypass surgery. People may notice thinner arms and legs, along with an overall change in their physique.
As noted by Professor Alex Miras, these appearance changes aren’t solely due to the medications. They are a natural consequence of weight loss, which predominately reduces fat in the body. Whether through injections or other methods, losing weight can reshape facial features and body contours.
Source link
dailymail,health,Virginia,Ozempic
