The mindbodygreen Podcast 630: Muscle, metabolism & GLP-1s | Rocio Salas-Whalen, M.D.
Dec 28, 2025
Rocío Salas-Whalen, M.D., a board-certified endocrinologist and an expert in GLP-1 therapies, dives into the crucial link between muscle mass and metabolism. She emphasizes that muscle loss poses greater health risks than excess fat. Rocío discusses the benefits of GLP-1s, when they're appropriate, and highlights the importance of protein and strength training in preserving muscle on these medications. She also addresses common misconceptions and the role of mindset in achieving long-term health goals, particularly in the context of obesity and lifestyle changes.
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Body Composition Trumps The Scale
- Body composition matters more than scale weight for metabolic health.
- High muscle, low body fat, and low visceral fat define true metabolic health.
Use The GPS: GLP‑1, Protein, Strength
- Start a GLP-1 plan with the GPS: GLP-1, Protein, Strength training.
- Increase protein from day one and add strength training to prevent muscle loss.
Target Protein By Ideal Weight
- Aim for ~1 gram protein per pound of ideal body weight to preserve and build muscle.
- Adjust targets by sex and goals: e.g., ~100–120g for many midlife women, 140–160g for men.