Bone Density Loss / Osteoporosis Risk
Users on Reddit discuss concerns and experiences related to bone density loss and osteoporosis risk while on GLP-1 medications, often linking it to rapid weight loss and insufficient protein intake or resistance training.
Experiences and Concerns:
Another user shared a personal experience: "There was a period of time where I simply quit eating (and I mean that) and lost serious muscle mass and bone density. Now, I weightlift, eat a lot of meat, fruits, veggies, and fats, and I drink a lot of water. Without these things, my body would not have recovered. "[2]
A user cited a study: "Yes, rapid weight loss from medications like Wegovy, which is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, can cause a decrease in bone density. This is because weight loss reduces the mechanical force put on bones, which can lead to bone loss. A study published in June 2024 in the JAMA Network found that people who take weight loss drugs like Ozempic or Wegovy may experience bone density loss. Another study found that the loss of bone density from newer weight loss shots like Wegovy could be greater than older medications because they lead to more weight loss. So yes it causes bone density loss because weight loss does because you need less bone density. "[3]
In response to the previous comment, another user argued: "Weight lose does not equal bone density loss. In fact. Losing weight slowly and correctly will yield higher bone density which is why physical exercise is important. The objective is to keep BMD, not to lose it under any circumstance as it’s what causes osteoporosis. "[4]
This user further elaborated: "Did you read the parts that discuss larger decrease muscle weight, bone weight is strictly aligned with fat loss drugs lol. Those that use these drugs aren’t just losing fat. They lose drastically larger portions of all weight. It’s the reason why “Ozempic Face” is a thing. These medications do not allow you to retain muscle and bone density. Which is why they are last resort medications. Because losing weight correctly yields higher bone density and high muscle mass while losing fat weight. Ozempic will lose you weight, it will also leave you frail with other issues. "[5]
A user in r/Mommit stated: "I saw a young girl get diagnosed with osteoporosis from taking glp-1s and that eliminated any desire I had to take it. Bone health is directly correlated with longevity and life satisfaction. "[10]
Remedies and Preventions Recommended:
Another user who experienced bone density loss stated, "Now, I weightlift, eat a lot of meat, fruits, veggies, and fats, and I drink a lot of water. Without these things, my body would not have recovered. "[2]
A user in r/Residency advised: "Rapid weight loss will target muscle, fat; whatever. Muscle eats it first. These people do not match their protein loss with protein intake. They don't do appropriate strength training to build back up. So they lose more than they really should. They also will invariably have shittier bone health because they aren't strenghtening, nor are they intaking the appropriate diet. "[7]
Another comment in the same thread highlighted: "Rapid weight loss in general is associated with muscle loss, especially in people who don't work out. They are removing resistance (thier weight) and not replacing with anything else. Similar concept for the eventual effect on the bones. So no, it's not that ozempic causes muscle wasting itself, it's that people who lose weight on it tend to make no other changes in lifestyle than reduced intake. "[8]
A user with obesity medicine boards certification added: "I also tell patients to up their protein intake along with exercise. Protein loss is also why some people will complain of hair loss on these meds"[9]
To prevent bone density decline, especially in older women, one user suggested: "older women should wear weight vests when they walk, to help minimize decline in bone density"[11]
A user in r/Mommit shared their preventative measure: "So I started doing 20 minute heavy lifts (and still no cardio) just to gain muscle and strengthen my bones. "[10]
A user in r/Zepbound posted about the need to prevent muscle loss, citing a review: "All patients receiving IMDs for obesity should participate in comprehensive treatment programs emphasizing adequate protein and micronutrient intakes, as well as resistance training, to preserve muscle mass and function, maximize the benefit of IMD therapy, and minimize potential risks. "[12]
In response to the Zepbound post, a user said: "Protein consumption is good but it’s useless without any form of resistance training. "[13]
Another user in the Zepbound thread emphasized: "I have commented probably 500 times in the Tirz subs that everyone absolutely needs to lift heavy weights, 2-4x per week. "[14]
One user shared their success in gaining muscle while losing fat: "I've gained about 4 lbs of muscle mass while losing about 30 lbs of fat so far as confirmed by multiple DEXA scans which I owe to eating 1g of protein per pound for my goal weight and resistance training a full body workout 3 times a week. "[15]
It's important to note that some users believe the bone density loss is a consequence of rapid weight loss in general, rather than a direct effect of the GLP-1 medication itself, especially if not accompanied by adequate protein and resistance training.
Experiences and Concerns:
- One user mentioned, "With everything coming out on these drugs why are you wanting them?
Remedies and Preventions Recommended:
- Resistance Training and Protein Intake:
- One user emphasized the importance of lifestyle changes: "You do have to go to the gym to avoid a sagging face, arms, or a$$.
It's important to note that some users believe the bone density loss is a consequence of rapid weight loss in general, rather than a direct effect of the GLP-1 medication itself, especially if not accompanied by adequate protein and resistance training.