Obesity remains a major health problem in the United States, affecting about 2 in 5 adults and increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, liver disease, arthritis, and several cancers. Newer medications such as semaglutide (Wegovy®) and tirzepatide (Zepbound®) have changed obesity treatment by helping many patients achieve meaningful weight loss. As more patients use these medications, one question often comes up: how can people lose weight while protecting muscle?
The excitement is understandable. In clinical trials, people taking semaglutide lost nearly 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks, while those taking tirzepatide lost about 15% to 21%, depending on dose. A later head-to-head trial confirmed greater average weight loss with tirzepatide than with semaglutide. These are among the strongest results we have seen with medication-based obesity treatment. However, weight loss is not just about the number on the scale. During meaningful weight loss, whether it comes from lifestyle changes, medication, or surgery, some lean body mass is usually lost along with fat.
The good news is that muscle loss can be mitigated. Current evidence supports pairing these medications with resistance training and adequate protein intake. Strength training helps preserve muscle, strength, and physical function, while protein provides the building blocks needed to maintain lean tissue during weight loss. Many experts recommend higher protein intake during active weight loss, but the exact target should be individualized rather than based on current body weight alone, especially for people with chronic conditions. Resistance exercise two to three times per week can further help preserve muscle.
This broader approach matters because the goal of obesity treatment is not simply to weigh less. It is to lose fat, protect muscle, and improve health and quality of life over time. Because obesity is a chronic condition, the best results usually come from a holistic, long-term management plan that includes nutrition, physical activity, medication when appropriate, and ongoing medical support.
In summary, GLP-1 medications can be powerful tools, but they work best when used thoughtfully and as part of a broader strategy. If you are considering treatment, talk with your primary care physician or obesity medicine specialist about a plan that helps you lose weight safely while preserving strength, function, and overall health.
To make an appointment with Dr. Mifuji, call: (956) 362-8860
Clinic location:
DHR Health Internal Medicine Clinic
801 E. Nolana Avenue, Suite 2
McAllen, Texas 78504
About Dr. Roque M. Mifuji
As a board-certified internist, with an additional certification in obesity medicine, Dr. Roque M. Mifuji specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and management of acute and chronic conditions in adult patients. Dr. Mifuji is fluent in both English and Spanish and is deeply committed to improving health equity and strengthening medical education in the region’s predominantly Hispanic and underserved communities. Dr. Mifuji is now accepting new patients at the DHR Health Internal Medicine Clinic, located at 801 E. Nolana Avenue, Suite 2. To schedule an appointment, call (956) 362-8860.
