GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro were originally developed for people with Type 2 diabetes and clinically significant obesity. They are not meant to be used casually as a quick fix because someone simply wants to lose weight faster or look better for an event. These medications directly affect appetite regulation, digestion and metabolic signalling. That needs to be taken seriously.
If you have been medically assessed and prescribed GLP-1 through a doctor, it can be an effective tool.
If you have not, you should not be using it.
There are real safety concerns with
- Incorrect dosing
- Unregulated suppliers
- Lack of medical screening
- No monitoring of metabolic markers
If you are considering GLP-1 use, speak to a doctor, not a friend, influencer or private plug.
The reality is that many people are already using these medications, some legally and safely, others not.
I do not encourage or condone unprescribed use.
But if someone is already using GLP-1, then they need to know how to protect their metabolism, their muscle, and their long-term results.
That is why this guide exists.
What GLP-1 Medications Actually Do
GLP-1s work by
- Reducing appetite
- Slowing digestion
- Changing hunger signalling between the gut and the brain
This makes eating less feel easier and weight loss often happens quickly.
But the medication does not teach you:
- How to eat
- How to train
- How to maintain results once appetite returns
And appetite will return when dosage stabilises or stops.
The Biggest Risk Is Muscle Loss
When appetite drops, most people unintentionally eat too little protein.
Without sufficient protein, the body begins breaking down muscle, not just fat.
Losing muscle = slower metabolism.
A slower metabolism means
- You burn fewer calories at rest
- Weight regain becomes faster and easier once medication ends
And here’s the part most people miss,
The “toned”, “lean”, “defined” look people want does not come from weighing less.
It comes from retaining (or building) muscle while losing body fat.
If protein is low and strength training is absent
- The weight comes off
- But the body looks flat, soft and deflated
- Clothes fit smaller, but shape does not improve
Without muscle, the aesthetic outcome people want is impossible.
Carbohydrates, Fat and Hormone Balance
Many people cut carbs aggressively because appetite is lower.
This often leads to
- Low energy
- Mood swings
- Cravings
- Poor training performance
Carbohydrates are not the enemy, they just need to be used strategically, especially around training.
Dietary fat is essential.
Fats support
- Hormone production
- Nutrient absorption
- Skin, hair and metabolic health
Cutting fat too low can cause
- Hormonal dysregulation
- Low mood and low libido
- Dry skin and brittle hair
- Slower recovery
The goal is not low-carb or low-fat.
The goal is structured, balanced macronutrients.
This matters even more on GLP-1 because normal appetite cues are muted.
The Reality Check
A lot of people think GLP-1 makes fat loss “easier.”
It doesn’t, it changes what the challenge is.
Instead of fighting hunger, the challenge becomes
- Maintaining muscle
- Balancing nutrients without appetite cues
- Building habits that outlast the medication
If someone is using GLP-1 for cosmetic reasons, they actually need MORE structure than someone who isn’t.
No structure = temporary results.
Structure = permanent change.
Mini Guide: How To Use GLP-1 The Right Way
1. Prioritise Protein
Aim for high-quality, lean, digestible protein sources at every meal to protect muscle.
2. Keep Carbohydrates In
Use them to support energy, training performance and mood.
Don’t cut them out entirely.
3. Include Dietary Fat Every Day
Healthy fats support hormones, recovery and general health.
Avoid extremely low-fat diets.
4. Strength Train Regularly
A simple, repeatable programme that focuses on progressive overload will maintain muscle and improve shape.
5. Eat Slowly and Pay Attention to Fullness
This is where long-term behaviour change is built, not in calorie numbers alone.
6. Build Routine
Regular meal timing, consistent training days and daily steps create a lifestyle that lasts beyond medication.
What I’m Building
I am currently developing a structured support programme specifically for people using GLP-1 medications who want to
- Maintain muscle and protect metabolism
- Avoid the “flat” look that comes from losing weight without training
- Learn how to eat properly while appetite is suppressed
- Keep results long term rather than regaining weight after stopping medication
- Train safely and effectively without overwhelming the body
If you want to be one of the first to access it, send me a message with the word:
GLP1