How much protein do you need on weight-loss medication?
On weight-loss medication, appetite can fade while protein still matters. This gives you one practical number to discuss and adapt.
How this is calculated
Your target is based on your body weight and activity level, using the protein ranges sports-nutrition research recommends for preserving lean mass in a calorie deficit — roughly 1.6–2.2g of protein per kg of body weight.
We also apply a minimum baseline — 90g for women, 120g for men — capped so your target never exceeds 2.2g per kg of your body weight.
If you're on a GLP-1 weight-loss medication, we nudge the target a little higher. These medications suppress appetite hard, so muscle loss is a real risk — and protein is the single biggest lever to protect it while you lose fat.
This is an estimate to aim for, not medical advice. If you have kidney conditions or other health concerns, talk to your doctor about the right intake for you.
Track it effortlessly
Calo is built for eating on weight-loss medication — protein-first, small portions, no guilt. Log a meal in 10 seconds with a photo.
Download for iPhoneTrack your protein target inside the app with AI meal scanning. iPhone, iOS 18+.
Educational estimate, not medical advice. Calo is a nutrition tracking tool and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.