Can You Build Muscle While Taking Compounded Semaglutide?
The drug semaglutide has rapidly gained popularity for treating type 2 diabetes and for weight loss. Nonetheless, one of the widely asked questions is whether semaglutide would result in muscle loss in addition to fat loss. Those who are looking forward to maintaining or even building muscles while on compounded semaglutide therapy can, during treatment, engage in strategies that prevent the loss of muscle mass. Weight management is a fantastic way by which individuals can maintain their lean body mass and, hence, achieve fitness.
This blog goes into the effects of compounded semaglutide on muscle health. It offers actionable tips to preserve and build up muscle while still enjoying the weight-loss capabilities of this medication.
What is Compounded Semaglutide?
Compounded semaglutide is an injectable medication that mimics the activity of the hormone GLP-1, which controls the blood sugar level and appetite. It has the same active ingredient as the well-known Ozempic and Wegovy brands, which have been approved to control glycemia and chronic weight management.
Semaglutide helps the body lose weight by reducing total body mass, including both fat and lean mass. Some research suggests that as much as 40 percent of semaglutide-induced weight loss can occur through the reduction of lean mass, a component that is primarily muscle. If used improperly, this can prove disadvantageous. Proper nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle can help minimize this impact on muscle.
Does Compounded Semaglutide Impact Muscle Strength?
For those actively working to build or conserve muscle, the apparent likelihood of muscle loss with compounded semaglutide may seem like an inconsequential risk. However, there is some comfort in knowing muscle loss is not inevitable. Indeed, with appropriate dietary choices, consistent strength training, and medical supervision, individuals can both conserve their lean body mass and enhance the growth of their muscles.
The Role of Nutrition in Muscle Building
The preservation of muscle during treatment using semaglutide strictly requires adequate protein intake. Research works indicate that high-protein diet consumer athletes exhibit non-evident lean mass preservation even on a calorie-restricted diet. Since proteins contain the required building blocks for muscle repair and growth, they are critical for someone undergoing semaglutide.
Protein Guidelines for Use with Compound Semaglutide
1.2-1.5 g per kg of body weight/day: Ideal for muscle retention.
1.5-2.0 g/kg: Best for athletes or working out individuals looking to build more muscle
25-30g per serving: It is advisable to consume this quantity per serving for maximum protein synthesis
High-quality protein intake includes lean meat, eggs, dairy products, beans, and most protein powder, which can be used to achieve these.
Why Strength Training?
Resistance exercise is important for preserving and creating lean muscle mass during compounded semaglutide therapy. Strength training activates muscle protein synthesis, reduces muscle breakdown, and enhances overall body composition.
Key Strength Training Benefits of Compounded Semaglutide:
Preservation of Lean Mass: Resistance exercises combat the muscle loss associated with weight loss.
Improved Strength: Regular training helps maintain or even increase physical strength.
Hormonal Benefits: Resistance training boosts testosterone and improves insulin sensitivity, both essential for muscle health.
Enhanced Fat Loss: Muscle burns more calories, even at rest, aiding in overall fat reduction.
For most people, 2-3 times per week strength training is enough. Exercises should focus on large groups of muscles such as the chest, back, legs, arms, and core muscles. Newbies will find it helpful to work with a certified trainer to create a routine that is suited to their fitness level and goals.
Additional Things to Do to Prevent Muscle Loss
Beyond diet and exercise, taking a holistic approach to the care of your muscles is also important when taking compounded semaglutide.
1. Recovery Focus
Get Enough Sleep: For effective muscle repair and growth, get at least 7-9 hours of quality sleep.
Hydration: Drink enough water to ensure proper muscle function and recovery.
Injury Prevention: Do not over-train and observe proper joint and muscle care.
2. Emotional Control
High stress can cause cortisol. The elevation of this hormone is associated with muscle breakdown. Techniques like meditation, yoga, and mindfulness can help keep this in control.
3. Other Supplementations
Supplements like creatine and leucine may complement your efforts to preserve muscle. However, they should not replace a well-balanced diet. Consult your doctor before starting any supplement regimen.
4. Time Protein Intake Strategically
Consuming protein-rich meals before and after workouts can maximize muscle protein synthesis, aiding in muscle maintenance and growth.
5. Get Regular Checkups
A healthy level of your body composition should be monitored using a health professional’s guidance. You may need to have adjustments in your diet or exercise program as necessary.
Can You Gain Muscle With Compounded Semaglutide?
Compounded semaglutide is not formulated as a muscle-building product, but it is still possible for the patient to gain muscles during treatment. This involves the intake of essential calories and sufficient consumption of proteins while practicing strength training activities consistently.
People wanting to build muscle should first consult a doctor. They can determine if compounded semaglutide will meet their fitness purposes or if another medication would work better for them.
Knowing Signs of Muscle Loss
If you are concerned about losing muscle while on compounded semaglutide, look out for these symptoms:
- You’re losing muscular strength and endurance in your workouts.
- You feel extremely tired for most of each day.
- You’re losing muscle mass or definition.
- Alterations in body composition as ascertained via tests.
- The earlier you detect these manifestations, the earlier you will be able to institute correctional measures in protein intake or your exercise program.
Do Supplements Help With Compounded Semaglutide Muscle Mass?
Supplements can help with muscle maintenance. However, they work best when there is proper nutrition and an exercise routine.
1. Creatine:
Increases strength and accelerates muscle protein synthesis.
Dosage: 5 grams per day; Best taken after a workout
2. Leucine:
Stimulates muscle growth, especially when protein intake is suboptimal.
Dosage: 2-5 grams daily; taken with meals
Keep in mind that supplements should supplement and not replace your diet. Be sure to consult a doctor or healthcare professional prior to initiating any new supplementation.
Get Success in Muscle Targets with Compounded Semaglutide
Compounded semaglutide to build muscle should be accompanied by a strategic regimen of diet, exercise, and health. The process of providing adequate protein, strength training, and recovery can reduce the risk of muscle loss and move closer to goals.
At Direct Preventive Care, we pride ourselves on the ability to help you get as healthy and fit as possible. Our compounded semaglutide is formulated with the highest quality in mind, ensuring a reliable and effective solution for managing weight loss. Fast and secure shipping is accomplished within 24 hours of processing, ensuring you receive everything you need every step of the way.
