Background

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1 RA) can be effective in achieving body weight loss; studies report that 15 to 40% of total weight loss is from muscle mass (sarcopenia). Issues including intestinal paralysis, nausea, and undernutrition have been noted. The use of novel medical nutrition (MN) to support maintenance of GLP-1, digestive function, and minimization of sarcopenia could be an effective co-therapy in the use of GLP-1 RAs.

Methods

A 12-week pilot study ((n=4) avg BMI of 35kg/m2) using a medical nutrition product 2x/day with a specific nutrient profile confirmed to inhibit DPP-IV activity to stimulate and prolong GLP-1. Two clinical reference groups (American Diet (AD) and GLP-1 RA (GLP)) from the literature were identified for comparisons to assess clinical relevance observed in this pilot. Primary objectivespercentages of body weight and muscle mass lost. Secondary objectivesGLP-1 response and digestive regularity.

Results

MN patients lost an average of 11.5% b.w., with 0% from muscle. This compared to 5% weight loss in AD- 10% from muscle; for GLP, 15% weight loss, average of 20% from muscle. MN GLP-1 levels postprandial increased in the first 20 minutes threefold and remained at 40% of peak until 240 minutes. No changes in digestive regularity occurred.

Conclusions

These data suggest MN has potential to minimize sarcopenia, reduce digestive discomfort with GLP-1 RA and may limit time needed for GLP-1 RAs. Completion of the full clinical study has merit and required to fully assess the co-therapy potential of MN and GLP-1 RA use.