Darshan Shah, MD’s
GLP-1 Core Nutrient Support
Protocol overview
Last updated: May 13, 2025
8 Nutrients
Whey Protein
25000mg
Whey protein provides rapidly absorbed, high-quality amino acids that help preserve lean muscle mass, support satiety, and counteract protein deficiencies common with reduced appetite on GLP-1 medications—making it essential for metabolic balance and nutritional repletion. [1]
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Log in or sign upHMB
1500mg
HMB (beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate) helps preserve lean muscle mass and prevent muscle loss often associated with reduced appetite or rapid weight loss on GLP-1 medications, supporting metabolic stability, strength, and functional outcomes during therapy. [2]
Creatine
5g
Creatine supports muscle energy production, strength, and lean mass preservation—critical during GLP-1-induced weight loss, which can include loss of muscle tissue. It also aids in cognitive function and cellular hydration, supporting overall performance and metabolic health. [3]
Fiber
9g
Fiber supports GLP-1 therapy by promoting satiety, stabilizing blood glucose, and improving gut motility, helping reduce common side effects like nausea and constipation. It also supports a healthy microbiome, which plays a role in metabolic and inflammatory balance. [4]
L-Theanine
100mg
Suntheanine® (a patented form of L-theanine) promotes calm focus and reduces stress-induced cortisol, which can support appetite regulation, digestion, and sleep quality—key areas impacted by GLP-1 therapies. It may also ease GI side effects linked to nervous system tension. [5]
Vitamin B12
600mcg
B vitamins are essential cofactors in energy metabolism, nervous system function, and red blood cell production. For individuals on GLP-1 medications, adequate B vitamin intake may support metabolic balance, reduce fatigue, and help offset potential nutrient depletion associated with reduced food intake. [6]
Vitamin D3
50mcg
Vitamin D and K2 work synergistically to support bone health, calcium balance, and cardiovascular function. For individuals on GLP-1 medications, this combination may help maintain nutrient absorption, musculoskeletal integrity, and metabolic balance during weight loss or appetite reduction. [7]

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Warnings
Do not use if pregnant, nursing, or under the age of 18. Not intended for individuals with known allergies to dairy or those with severe kidney disease.
Lifestyle Improvements
GLP-1 medications offer powerful metabolic benefits, but long-term success depends on how well the body is supported through the process. Lifestyle choices remain essential in preserving lean mass, promoting resilience, and minimizing side effects as metabolism shifts.
Prioritize protein at each meal—ideally 1 gram per pound of ideal body weight—to support muscle protein synthesis and prevent the lean tissue loss commonly associated with reduced appetite. This ensures metabolic rate and strength are maintained, even during calorie restriction.
Hydration with electrolytes is equally important. Sodium, magnesium, and potassium support energy levels, digestive regularity, and neurological function, all of which can be impacted during GLP-1 therapy. Begin the day with electrolytes to reduce fatigue and support fluid balance.
Incorporate daily movement, particularly resistance training 3–4 times per week, to reinforce muscular strength and metabolic efficiency. Complement this with fiber-rich foods—like leafy greens, chia seeds, and psyllium—to stabilize blood sugar, support digestion, and nourish the gut microbiome.
To counteract the physiological impact of stress, introduce nervous system regulation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or restorative movement. These practices help modulate cortisol and improve appetite signaling, sleep quality, and digestive function.
Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night to support hormonal health, recovery, and long-term weight management.
While GLP-1 medications initiate change, these lifestyle practices ensure the body adapts and thrives—creating a strong foundation for sustainable metabolic health.
Disclaimer
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Any products and informational content displayed on this page are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
While this Protocol has been created by health experts, it is educational in nature and not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take medications.
- Soares, A. L. S., Machado-Lima, A., Brech, G. C., Greve, J. M. D., Dos Santos, J. R., Inojossa, T. R., Rogero, M. M., Salles, J. E. N., Santarem-Sobrinho, J. M., Davis, C. L., & Alonso, A. C. (2023). The influence of whey protein on muscle strength, glycemic control and functional tasks in older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus in a resistance exercise program: Randomized and triple blind clinical trial. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(10), 5891. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20105891
- Wilkinson, D. J., Hossain, T., Hill, D. S., Phillips, B. E., Crossland, H., Williams, J., Loughna, P., Churchward-Venne, T. A., Breen, L., Phillips, S. M., Etheridge, T., Rathmacher, J. A., & Smith, K. (2013). Effects of leucine and its metabolite β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate on human skeletal muscle protein metabolism. The Journal of Physiology, 591(11), 2911–2923. https://doi.org/10.1113/jphysiol.2013.253203
- Candow, D. G., Forbes, S. C., Chilibeck, P. D., Cornish, S. M., Antonio, J., & Kreider, R. B. (2019). Effectiveness of creatine supplementation on aging muscle and bone: Focus on falls prevention and inflammation. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 8(4), 488. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm8040488
- Wu, S., Jia, W., He, H., Yin, J., Xu, H., He, C., Zhang, Q., Peng, Y., & Cheng, R. (2023). A new dietary fiber can enhance satiety and reduce postprandial blood glucose in healthy adults: A randomized cross-over trial. Nutrients, 15(21), 4569. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15214569
- Higashiyama, A., Htay, H. H., Aoyama, M., & Juneja, L. R. (2011). Effects of L-theanine on attention and reaction time response. Journal of Functional Foods, 3(3), 171–178. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2011.03.009
- Tardy, A. L., Pouteau, E., Marquez, D., Yilmaz, C., & Scholey, A. (2020). Vitamins and minerals for energy, fatigue and cognition: A narrative review of the biochemical and clinical evidence. Nutrients, 12(1), 228. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12010228
- van Ballegooijen, A. J., Pilz, S., Tomaschitz, A., Grübler, M., Verheyen, N., & Dekker, J. M. (2017). The synergistic interplay between vitamins D and K for bone and cardiovascular health: A narrative review. International Journal of Endocrinology, 2017, 7454376. https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/7454376
- Zivkovic, A. M., Telis, N., German, J. B., & Hammock, B. D. (2011). Dietary omega-3 fatty acids aid in the modulation of inflammation and metabolic health. California Agriculture, 65(3), 106–111. https://doi.org/10.3733/ca.v065n03p106