SELF reported on how taking a GLP-1 could affect bone health featuring insight from Kelyssa Hall, ACSM-EP, CSCS, CEAS I, BoneFit, exercise physiologist at HSS.

When it comes to treating obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic health conditions, GLP-1 agonist drugs–such as Ozempic, Zepbound, and Wegovy–have been a gamechanger for literally millions of Americans. But as with any medication, these drugs can deliver unwelcome side effects. And a recent study that just garnered a bunch of attention raised the possibility of new ones.

“When you take GLP-1s, there can be rapid weight loss which means there is less load being carried around on the skeleton,” Hall says. “Bone formation or strengthening is improved with load to the skeletal system,” she explained, “so losing weight decreases the regular load on the bones overall.”

However, the study didn’t take into account factors that commonly impact bone health, like exercise habits, nutritional habits, and other lifestyle factors, Hall said. “These factors can play a huge role in bone health with or without the addition of GLP-1s.”

As Hall put it: The study “highlights the need for more research on these topics.”

Read the full article at self.com.