Episode 224: GLP-1 Medications for Older Adults: How to Lose Weight Without Losing Muscle

If you're over 60 and using GLP-1 medications like Wegovy or Zepbound, this episode could save your independence.

In this episode, I reveal the hidden danger of rapid weight loss without muscle protection—and the simple strategies that keep you strong, steady, and mobile as the pounds come off.

GLP-1 medications are transforming weight loss for older adults managing diabetes, high blood pressure, and joint pain. But there's a critical piece most people miss: sarcopenia. This age-related muscle loss accelerates during weight loss, putting you at risk for falls, fractures, and losing the strength you need for daily activities.

Tune in to learn how to lose weight safely while protecting the muscle that keeps you independent—and why strength training, protein intake, and staying active aren't optional on this journey.

Episode Highlights:

• Why GLP-1 medications like Wegovy and Zepbound are game-changers for adults 60+

• The connection between muscle loss, falls, fractures, and loss of independence

• How sarcopenia affects metabolism, blood sugar control, and bone health

• Protein requirements for older adults (25-30 grams per meal)

• Simple strength training routines you can do at home—no gym required

• Red flags that muscle loss is happening too fast

• Real patient story: turning weakness into strength on a GLP-1 journey

Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly:

• Website | drshellymd.com

• Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd

• Instagram | @drshellymd

• Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd

• Twitter | @drshellymd

About Dr. Alicia Shelly

Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH. Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014. In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss, where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.

Resources:

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