Lifestyle plan to protect muscle and heart health for adults with obesity using GLP-1 medications
Official title: Lifestyle strategies to preserve muscle and reduce cardiovascular risk in adults with obesity using GLP-1 receptor agonists
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11452740 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A real-world trial tests a combined nutrition and resistance-training program versus standard care for adults starting GLP-1 weight loss drugs to preserve lean mass and cardiovascular health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | March 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $734,785 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MD021656-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11452740 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults (18+ years) with obesity (BMI ≥30 or ≥27 with comorbidity) starting GLP-1 therapy who can participate in nutrition and resistance-training programming.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals not taking GLP-1 medications or unable to commit to the exercise/nutrition program may see limited benefit.
What this research studies
This study will enroll 670 adults with obesity who are starting GLP-1 therapy and randomly assign them to a structured lifestyle program or enhanced usual care. The lifestyle program uses evidence-based physical activity and nutrition strategies tailored to GLP-1 users, delivered through YMCA facilities, while the control gets monthly education and standard medical guidance. The main goal is to see if the lifestyle plan can prevent lean-mass loss after six months. The trial will examine lean mass changes, cardiovascular risk factors, and adherence across diverse socioeconomic groups.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may maintain healthier body composition and lower cardiovascular risk while on GLP-1 therapy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work suggests lifestyle interventions can affect body composition, but robust real-world evidence with GLP-1 users is still needed.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ladapo, Joseph Abiodun — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Ladapo, Joseph Abiodun
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.