In the quest for weight loss, we often turn to various methods, including pharmaceutical interventions like semaglutide or extreme diets such as the HCG diet. These approaches can be effective in shedding pounds, but they may also lead to the loss of lean muscle mass, a critical component of a healthy body. In this article, we will focus on the importance of recommending Essential Aminos from Lifeworks Nutritionals to patients who are using semaglutide or HCG diets to cut weight. Essential Aminos can play a vital role in preserving and maintaining lean body mass during drastic weight loss, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable journey towards their weight loss goals.

Semaglutide, found in medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, has become a popular tool for weight loss. While it can help patients shed pounds, the concerning truth is that a significant portion of that weight loss comes from lean muscle. Studies have shown that individuals on semaglutide lost an average of 15 pounds of muscle along with their fat over 68 weeks. This is a big problem, especially as we age—muscle is what keeps us strong, mobile, and independent.

WHY ESSENTIAL AMINOS ARE CRUCIAL

When I was raising my kids, I knew they needed the right building blocks to grow strong—plenty of protein, vitamins, and movement. The same applies to adults, especially those looking to lose weight in a healthy way. Protein is essential for preserving muscle, and the best way to ensure the body gets what it truly needs is through Essential Aminos.

Unlike typical protein sources that the body breaks down inefficiently, Essential Aminos from Lifeworks Nutritionals are absorbed with an incredible 99% utilization rate. That means nearly every bit of what you take in is actually used to build and repair muscle. Plus, it’s enhanced with nucleic acid building blocks, which support genetic health and keep the body functioning optimally at a cellular level.

Along with Essential Aminos, here are a few tried-and-true strategies I always recommend to my clients:

-Eat Enough Protein:Make sure every meal includes high-quality protein sources.

- Strength Training: Lifting weights or doing bodyweight exercises helps maintain and even build muscle.

- Prioritize Sleep: Muscle repairs itself during rest, so a solid night’s sleep is critical.

- Manage Stress: High stress leads to muscle loss and poor recovery—deep breathing, prayer, or meditation can make a difference.

Semaglutide works by mimicking natural hormones to regulate blood sugar and suppress appetite. While it was originally created for diabetics, it has been approved for weight loss as well.

The HCG diet, on the other hand, involves extreme calorie restriction alongside HCG injections. While some claim success, this approach lacks scientific backing and isn’t FDA-approved. Both methods can lead to significant muscle loss, which is why muscle preservation should be a top priority.

I’ve spent a lifetime teaching, nurturing, and guiding—not just my own family but my clients as well. My mission has always been to help people make informed, sustainable choices for their health. If you or someone you know is using semaglutide or following a restrictive diet, don’t overlook the importance of muscle preservation. Essential Aminos can be a simple but powerful tool in ensuring long-term success.

Weight loss shouldn’t come at the cost of strength and vitality. By incorporating high-quality amino acids, strength-building habits, and a holistic approach to health, we can support the body in a way that ensures lasting results. After all, true wellness isn’t just about losing weight—it’s about gaining a healthier, stronger future.

For many, you may wish to have a consultation so as not to 'guess' at what you need for your body to recover and have consistant good health. I work with my clients considering what you need and how to get to a better/best place. There is never a one size fits all answer. I work with my clients and help you find answers.

I look forward to hearing from you - you may email me or go directly to my contact page.

God Bless,

Maria Ricci, CHN

Disclaimer: Some of these studies (or citations) may not confom to peer review standards. Therefore, the results are not conclusive. Profressionals can, and often do, come to different conclusions when reviewing scientific data. None of these statements have been reviewed by the FDA.

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