Why is physical activity crucial during weight loss medication usage?
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While nutrition is critical, combining a healthy diet with regular physical activity is vital for weight loss and overall health beyond the number on the scale. While weight loss medications can help reduce appetite or increase metabolism, physical activity can further accelerate weight loss. Exercise burns calories, helping create a larger calorie deficit, which is essential for weight loss.
Preservation of Muscle Mass
When losing weight, there's a risk of losing muscle along with fat. Engaging in regular physical activity, particularly strength training, helps preserve lean muscle mass. Maintaining muscle is important because it contributes to a higher metabolic rate, allowing the body to burn more calories even at rest. In addition, we know that during any weight loss regimen protein should be of emphasis, but what are the effects on protein stores (muscle) during consistent weight loss? The reason protein is important is because of a condition known as sarcopenic obesity, which is related to the loss of muscle mass during consistent weight loss. It is important to be aware of this condition and how to prevent it because muscle loss is common during weight loss. High protein intake is key to preserving muscle mass. Muscle loss is common when losing weight, so maintaining a high protein intake is essential for preserving muscle. This is especially true if you're dieting without exercising, as sarcopenic obesity becomes more likely. This is why we encourage participation in heavy-weight, strength training at least 2-3 times per week to prevent muscle loss. This may also improve body composition and sustain weight loss long term (Parr et al 2013).
Other benefits to strength training include:
Improve health markers such as
Improves insulin sensitivity
Lowers blood pressure
Increased healthy cholesterol levels (HDL)
Increased endorphins
Improve mood and reduce stress
Reduced fatigue and combat lethargy
Increase social interaction and support
Group exercise or sports can provide social benefits
Connecting with others who share similar goals and interests to increase motivation and accountability
Incorporating physical activity into your weight loss plan while using medications is essential for achieving sustainable results. It complements the effects of the medicines, enhances overall health, reduces the risk of sarcopenia, and fosters a positive mindset. A well-rounded approach that combines medication, nutrition, and exercise can lead to lasting weight loss success and improved quality of life.
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Published: November 18th, 2024
This blog post was written by Amanda Sikkema, a dietitian at Katie Chapmon Nutrition. Amanda works with clients virtually and is accepting new clients.
