Key Takeaways
- GLP-1 medications reduce appetite and energy intake*, which can increase the risk of losing muscle along with fat during weight loss.
- Muscle supports metabolism, strength, and long-term weight maintenance*, so protecting it is especially important while using GLP-1 medications.
- Consistent protein intake and regular strength training can help preserve muscle mass* even when your appetite is lower.
- Light, easy-to-digest protein options often fit better with GLP-1-related nausea, taste changes, and early fullness.
- Bucked Up Protein Soda provides 25g of protein per can in a crisp, carbonated format that can help you meet daily protein goals on GLP-1 medications* Shop Bucked Up Protein Soda.
Why Muscle Matters More Than Ever on GLP-1 Medications
GLP-1 medications act on natural appetite control systems. GLP-1 receptor agonists reduce body weight through decreased appetite, increased satiety, and delayed gastric emptying, leading to significantly reduced energy intake*. These medications enhance satiety and reduce food intake, appetite, and hunger, resulting in substantial weight loss*.
Lower calorie intake can lead to fat loss and muscle loss at the same time. Muscle tissue is metabolically active, so losing it can slow your resting calorie burn, reduce strength, and affect daily function*. GLP-1 receptor agonists slow gastric emptying and reduce appetite, which can make it harder to eat enough protein*.
You can still protect muscle mass while using GLP-1 medications by being intentional with protein, strength training, and food choices that work with a smaller appetite.
5 Essential Strategies to Preserve Muscle on GLP-1 Medications
1. Prioritize Protein at Every Meal and Snack
Protein gives muscles the amino acids they need to stay strong*. Aim for 20–40g of protein at most meals, spaced evenly across the day instead of in a single large serving.
Many people do well with simple, high-protein staples such as:
- Chicken, turkey, or lean beef
- Fish or seafood
- Eggs or egg whites
- Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
Solid food can feel heavy when appetite is low. In that case, lighter liquid options can help you stay consistent. Bucked Up Protein Soda delivers 25g of whey protein isolate in a crisp, soda-like drink that feels lighter than a thick shake and is easy to sip during the day*.
Shop now to see flavors that can fit into your GLP-1 nutrition plan.
2. Include Regular Strength Training Each Week
Strength training signals your body to hold on to muscle*, even when weight is dropping. This type of exercise pairs well with higher protein intake for muscle preservation.
A simple weekly plan for most beginners on GLP-1 medications can include:
- Two to three full-body sessions per week
- Compound movements such as squats, rows, presses, and deadlifts
- Bodyweight exercises like push-ups, glute bridges, and lunges
Progressive overload, or gradually increasing resistance, reps, or sets over time, helps muscles stay challenged*. Always talk with a healthcare professional before beginning or changing an exercise routine while taking prescription medications.
3. Time Protein Around Your Workouts
Protein timing can support muscle recovery and growth when appetite is limited*. Spreading protein across the day matters, and timing it near workouts can add another layer of support.
Many active adults do well when they:
- Have 20–25g of protein within 1–2 hours before training
- Have 25–40g of protein within 30–60 minutes after training
Pre-workout protein provides amino acids while you train*, and post-workout protein supports repair afterward*. Thick shakes can feel difficult right after exercise if GLP-1 medication blunts your hunger. Bucked Up Protein Soda is light and refreshing, so keeping a can in your gym bag can make post-workout protein easier to finish, even when you do not feel very hungry*.
4. Choose Protein Sources That Feel Easy to Digest
GLP-1 medications often change how food feels and tastes. These medications delay gastric emptying and can reduce gastric acid secretion*, so heavy foods may sit in the stomach longer and feel uncomfortable.
Many people on GLP-1 medications tolerate lighter textures and colder temperatures better. Helpful approaches can include:
- Cold protein drinks instead of hot, rich meals
- Smoothies or clear protein beverages
- Smaller portions more often instead of large plates of food
Bucked Up Protein Soda uses clear whey protein isolate, which avoids the thick, milky texture of many shakes. The carbonated, juice-like feel can be easier to sip when nausea, fullness, or taste changes make traditional protein less appealing*.
5. Monitor and Adjust Protein Intake Over Time
Tracking intake for a short period helps you see whether you are getting enough protein*. Many adults aiming to preserve muscle during weight loss benefit from about 0.45–0.73g of protein per pound of body weight per day, unless their healthcare provider gives different guidance*.
A simple process looks like this:
- Use a food tracking app for three to seven days
- Check your average daily protein intake
- Adjust meals, snacks, or drinks until you reach your target range
If solid meals are not enough to reach your goal, convenient options can fill the gap. Replacing one regular soda with one can of Bucked Up Protein Soda adds 25g of protein per day, or 175g per week, without extra meal prep*. Make the switch today if you want an easy way to increase weekly protein intake while using GLP-1 medications.
Frequently Asked Questions About Protein and GLP-1 Medications
Is protein soda safe for people taking GLP-1 medications?
Protein sodas such as Bucked Up are generally appropriate for many people on GLP-1 medications because they provide whey protein isolate with zero sugar and zero carbs in a light, carbonated format. This style can feel easier to tolerate than thick shakes when appetite is low or nausea is present. Always check with your healthcare provider before adding any new supplement to your routine.
How much protein should I aim for daily while on GLP-1 medication?
Many adults who want to preserve muscle during weight loss aim for about 0.45–0.73g of protein per pound of body weight per day*, adjusted for age, activity level, health conditions, and medical guidance. For someone weighing 154 pounds, this range equals roughly 70–112g of protein per day. A registered dietitian or prescribing clinician can help refine this target for your situation.
Can I drink protein soda every day to help meet my protein needs?
Daily use of Bucked Up Protein Soda can fit into a balanced plan if total protein, calories, and other nutrients remain in a healthy range. Each can provides 25g of whey protein isolate, so many people use one can as a snack, post-workout drink, or replacement for a regular soda to help reach their protein goals*. Discuss regular use with your healthcare provider if you have kidney concerns or other medical conditions.
Will carbonation affect protein absorption or cause digestive issues?
Light carbonation does not prevent the body from absorbing protein. Some people on GLP-1 medications find that carbonated drinks feel more refreshing and easier to consume than still beverages when appetite is low. Sensitivity to carbonation varies, so adjust based on your own comfort.
Conclusion: Support Muscle While You Lose Weight on GLP-1 Medications
GLP-1 medications can support meaningful weight loss, but muscle protection requires a plan. These medications can promote fat loss while preserving muscle mass when combined with appropriate interventions*, especially when protein intake and resistance training receive consistent attention.
The strategies in this guide prioritize daily protein, regular strength work, smart protein timing, easy-to-digest options, and ongoing tracking. Together, they help create a realistic approach to preserving muscle, supporting metabolism, and feeling stronger during your GLP-1 journey*.
Bucked Up Protein Soda offers a practical way to add 25g of clear whey protein isolate in a light, carbonated drink that fits many GLP-1 eating patterns*. Do not let a smaller appetite limit your protein intake. Shop Bucked Up Protein Soda now and explore a convenient option to support your strength and body composition goals in 2026*.
*Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
