DUAL GIP/GLP-1 AGONISM AND LEAN MASS PRESERVATION: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW OF TIRZEPATIDE AND A PROPOSED AMAZONIAN DIETARY MODEL

Abstract

Tirzepatide, a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, represents a significant therapeutic advance in the management of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus, promoting substantial weight reduction with a predominant impact on visceral fat. However, evidence indicates concomitant loss of lean body mass during treatment, which may compromise basal metabolic rate and the long-term sustainability of clinical outcomes. This study aims to analyze the effects of tirzepatide on body composition, with emphasis on lean mass preservation, and to propose an Amazonian Dietary Model adapted to regional specificities. This is an integrative literature review, including randomized clinical trials and systematic reviews published between 2021 and 2026. Findings indicate that the quality of weight loss depends on adequate protein intake and structured nutritional intervention. The proposed model operationalizes protein targets consistent with scientific recommendations, incorporating regional food sources and contributing to functional and metabolic preservation during pharmacological therapy.