valleyvitalmedicine

Protecting Muscle, Metabolism & Hormonal Health During GLP-1 Weight Loss

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 17:39:35 GMT

GLP-1 medications are everywhere right now. Semaglutide, tirzepatide, Ozempic, Wegovy. You can't scroll through social media or walk past a medspa without seeing them advertised. And for good reason. These medications can meaningfully reduce appetite, improve blood sugar control, and produce significant weight loss results that traditional dieting often fails to achieve.

But there is a conversation that is not happening nearly enough: what kind of weight are people actually losing?

At Valley Vital Medicine, that question is at the center of everything we do when it comes to weight loss support. Because the number on the scale does not tell the whole story, and in many cases, it is hiding a serious problem.

What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone naturally released from the intestines when you eat. GLP-1 receptor agonists work by mimicking that hormone, reducing appetite, slowing gastric emptying, and improving blood sugar regulation.

Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) is a single GLP-1 receptor agonist. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) is a dual agent, activating both GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors, which can further improve insulin sensitivity and fat metabolism. Retatrutide, still investigational and not yet FDA-approved, adds a glucagon receptor component that may also support a higher metabolic rate.

Each of these medications works differently, and which one may be appropriate for a given person, if any, is a conversation worth having with a qualified provider who understands the full picture.

The Hidden Problem: You May Be Losing the Wrong Weight

Research published in Circulation found that semaglutide has been associated with lean mass comprising up to 40% of total weight loss in some studies. A 2024 systematic review and network meta-analysis found that across GLP-1 receptor agonists, lean mass loss can account for roughly 25% of total weight lost. A 2025 analysis found that tirzepatide was associated with greater lean body mass loss than semaglutide at every measured time point across a 12-month period.

To put that in plain terms: if someone loses 100 pounds on a GLP-1 medication without taking steps to protect their muscle, a meaningful portion of that loss may come from lean tissue rather than fat.

That matters enormously. Muscle is not just about appearance or athletic performance. Muscle is your metabolism. It is what keeps your body burning calories efficiently at rest. It supports insulin sensitivity, healthy aging, and your ability to function in daily life, including getting up from the floor, climbing stairs, and staying independent as you get older.

Why This Gets Worse When the Medication Stops

One of the most serious concerns with GLP-1 use is what happens after. Research has shown that stopping GLP-1 therapy without the appropriate lifestyle foundation often leads to weight regain. And if lean tissue was lost during the weight loss phase, that muscle does not automatically come back when the weight returns.

The result can be a body composition that is worse than before treatment began, with more fat relative to muscle, a slower resting metabolic rate, and a harder road ahead for anyone who tries to lose weight again in the future.

This is not an argument against GLP-1 medications. It is an argument for doing them right.

What "Doing It Right" Actually Looks Like

At Valley Vital Medicine, we do not believe in handing someone a prescription and sending them on their way. Here is what a comprehensive approach to GLP-1 support looks like.

Resistance training. Exercise sends a signal to the body to hold onto muscle tissue. Without it, caloric restriction, whether from medication or diet, increases the likelihood that the body will draw on lean tissue for energy. Structured strength training, particularly movements that challenge the lower body such as squats, lunges, and leg presses, is one of the most important things a person can do while on a GLP-1 medication.

Adequate protein intake. Protein is the raw material the body needs to maintain muscle. A general starting point is to multiply your ideal body weight in pounds by 0.8 to find a minimum daily gram target. This can be difficult to hit, particularly when appetite is suppressed, which is why being intentional about protein and, in some cases, using targeted amino acid support becomes especially important.

Hormone optimization. Caloric restriction, muscle loss, and metabolic stress all affect hormones. Testosterone, thyroid, cortisol, and growth hormone are all directly connected to muscle maintenance, energy, recovery, and fat metabolism. Many people going through a weight loss journey have underlying hormonal imbalances that go unaddressed, making their results harder to achieve and harder to sustain. Evaluating and supporting hormone levels is a core part of what we do at Valley Vital Medicine.

Body composition tracking. The scale only tells you how much you weigh. It does not tell you what you are made of. We use InBody composition scanning to measure muscle mass, fat mass, hydration, and visceral fat, the fat that surrounds internal organs and raises cardiovascular risk. Tracking body composition during a weight loss program, ideally every few weeks, is the only way to know whether a person is losing fat, losing muscle, or both.

Thoughtful titration. Conventional GLP-1 protocols often push patients to maximum doses as quickly as possible. At Valley Vital Medicine, we take a different approach. Starting at lower doses and increasing only when needed can reduce side effects significantly and give the body more room to adapt in a way that supports rather than undermines overall health.

The Goal Is Not Just to Weigh Less

Weight loss and body composition optimization are not the same thing. Someone can lose significant weight and end up metabolically worse off if that loss comes at the expense of their muscle, their hormones, and their metabolic foundation.

The goal we work toward with every patient is sustainable fat loss with preserved lean tissue, so that when the work is done, the body that remains is stronger, healthier, and capable of maintaining those results without being dependent on medication indefinitely.

If you are currently on a GLP-1 medication, considering one, or have come off one and are concerned about where things stand, we would love to have a conversation. Our free discovery calls are a no-pressure way to learn more about what comprehensive weight loss support looks like.

Call 701-532-1926 or visit www.valleyvitalmedicine.com/call to schedule your free discovery call and learn how a functional medicine approach to weight loss can help you protect your muscle, your metabolism, and your long-term health.

Medical Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning or modifying any weight loss program or medication regimen.

References:

Wilding JPH, et al. Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity. N Engl J Med. 2021;384(11):989-1002.

Jastreboff AM, et al. Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity. N Engl J Med. 2022;387(3):205-216.

Prado CM, et al. Muscle and GLP-1 receptor agonists: Adaptive or maladaptive response to weight loss? Circulation. 2024.

Bikou A, et al. Effect of GLP-1 receptor agonists and co-agonists on body composition: Systematic review and network meta-analysis. Metabolism. 2024.

Chavez AM, et al. Nutrition support whilst on GLP-1 based therapy. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2025;28(4):351-357.

Frontiers in Clinical Diabetes and Healthcare. GLP-1 agonists and exercise: the future of lifestyle prioritization. 2025.

Understanding the Oncotrace Test

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 07:39:45 GMT

A Personalized Approach to Cancer Detection and Monitoring

In this video, we review the Oncotrace test by RGCC, a powerful tool for early detection and monitoring of cancer activity through the analysis of circulating tumor cells (CTCs). This test provides functional insight into how cancer may be behaving in the body—long before it shows up on scans.

At Valley Vital Medicine, we use advanced testing like Oncotrace to personalize care, track treatment response, and guide clients toward better outcomes with precision-based functional medicine.

Men’s health, testosterone optimization, and peak physical performance.

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 07:42:46 GMT

Whether you’re an athlete, weekend warrior, busy professional, or simply want to feel strong and sharp again - this session will give you clear, actionable steps to optimize your health and performance.

Join Trevor Hausauer, FNP, of Valley Vital Medicine, and performance physical therapist Lizette Sunde of C.O.M.P.E.T.E. for a powerful Lunch & Learn on men’s health, testosterone optimization, and peak physical performance.

If you’re feeling tired, gaining stubborn weight, losing muscle, struggling with motivation, or not performing like you used to—this webinar is for you. We’ll break down how hormones, training, recovery, and nervous system regulation all work together to drive strength, energy, and longevity.

You’ll learn:

How testosterone impacts energy, strength, fat loss, mood, and recovery
Signs and symptoms of low or imbalanced hormones
Natural and medical strategies to optimize testosterone safely
The role of physical therapy, movement, and performance training in hormone health
How to train smarter (not harder) to avoid burnout and injury
What labs actually matter for men’s health and performance
Real-world strategies to improve results in the gym and in life

Onconomics Plus Test Review

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 07:36:42 GMT

Precision Insights for Cancer Therapy

In this video, we review the Onconomics Plus test by RGCC, a cutting-edge laboratory analysis that helps identify the most effective treatment options for each individual’s cancer. By studying how circulating tumor cells (CTCs) respond to various therapies, this test supports a more targeted and personalized approach to cancer treatment.

At Valley Vital Medicine, we use advanced testing like Onconomics Plus to guide personalized care plans, optimize outcomes, and bridge the gap between integrative and conventional oncology.

Unlocking the Power of Hydrogen Therapy

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 07:33:00 GMT

Interview with HydroHeal CEO

In this episode, Trevor Hausauer, FNP-C sits down with Mick, CEO of HydroHeal, to explore the exciting world of hydrogen therapy. Discover how hydrogen inhalation works, the science behind its benefits, and how Valley Vital Medicine is using it to support healing, energy, and overall wellness.

What Hydrogen Therapy Can Do for Your Body:

Reduces oxidative stress and inflammation
Supports cellular energy and mitochondrial function
Promotes recovery and repair at the tissue level
Enhances cognitive function and focus
Improves circulation and overall vitality

✨ Special Offer: Try Hydrogen Inhalation Therapy FREE for your first 2 sessions at Valley Vital Medicine!

What You Need to Know About Ozone Therapy & EBOO

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 07:29:53 GMT

with Trevor Hausauer FNP-C and Dr. Yoshi Rahm

Discover the powerful potential of ozone therapy in this deep-dive conversation with Trevor Hausauer, FNP-C and Dr. Yoshi Rahm, an expert in functional and integrative medicine. We focus on EBOO (Extracorporeal Blood Oxygenation and Ozonation) — one of the most advanced ozone therapies available today.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

What EBOO ozone therapy is and how it works
The unique benefits compared to other forms of ozone therapy
How EBOO supports detoxification, circulation, and immune balance
Why more functional medicine clinics are turning to ozone for chronic illness and inflammation

Putting the Brakes on Stress

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 06:23:23 GMT

featuring the Stress Release and Reset with Trevor Hausauer and Dr Bob Rakowski

In this video, Dr Bob Rakowski joins Trevor Hausauer, FNP to discuss the risks of stress, the benefits of ganoderma, and his Stress Reset protocol. If you have additional questions about this Stress Reset or to order Stress Reset or Release drops, please reach out to us at trevor@valleyvitalmedicine.com.

Unlocking the Power of Redox

Fri, 02 May 2025 23:49:46 GMT

We dive into how supporting Redox balance can transform health outcomes and why so many are turning to Asea products to optimize their body's natural healing processes.

The Miracle of Ozone Therapy

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 07:20:47 GMT

Discover how medical ozone therapy is transforming lives - and how it could help you, too.

In this powerful and informative webinar, we explore “The Miracle of Ozone Therapy”—a revolutionary treatment that’s transforming the way we approach healing and wellness.

Discover how ozone therapy works to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, support detoxification, and supercharge the immune system. Whether you’re navigating chronic illness, recovering from viral infections, or simply looking to optimize your overall vitality, this therapy offers a functional approach to true healing.

�� What ozone therapy is and how it works

�� The science behind its healing effects

�� Key conditions it can help address

�� Real-life success stories from clinical practice

�� The differences between Major Auto Hemotherapy, High Dose Ozone and EBOO

The Power of High-Dose Vitamin C & Advanced Therapies for Cancer Support

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 07:15:55 GMT

Most people only hear about chemo, radiation, and surgery—but there are science-backed, alternative therapies that can help optimize your body's natural defense system.

In this eye-opening webinar, you'll discover:

How High-Dose Vitamin C IV Therapy supports immunity & detoxification
Cutting-edge therapies like CBD IV, ozone therapy, PEMF, EBOO, and HOCATT sauna
Oral therapies including ivermectin, Fenbendazole, melatonin, vitamin D, and peptides
How to identify hidden infections and toxins that may be impacting your health
A step-by-step plan to take control of your well-being

A Functional Medicine Approach to Pain

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 05:23:24 GMT

Understanding the Root Causes at Valley Vital Medicine

Valley Vital Medicine specializes in alternative methods for treating pain. While cortisone shots are commonly used in conventional medicine, they are degenerative and can worsen the situation.

Valley Vital Medicine offers regenerative therapies such as protozone injections and PRP to optimize and regenerate health, which can make a significant difference in a short period of time and promote overall health.

From First Symptom to Full Recovery

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 07:12:35 GMT

A Functional Medicine Approach to Beating Viral Illness

Are you tired of feeling helpless when viral illness strikes? Want to know how to boost your immune system, shorten recovery time, and prevent infections naturally? In this webinar, we dive into a Functional Medicine approach to overcoming viral illness—from the very first symptom to full recovery!

In This Video, You’ll Learn:

How viruses impact the body and why early intervention is crucial
Proven Functional Medicine strategies to build immune resilience
The best supplements and natural remedies for viral infections
Cutting-edge therapies like IV therapy, ozone therapy, and HOCATT sauna
How to work with Valley Vital Medicine to create your personalized immune support plan

Compounding Tools

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 06:56:46 GMT

Irsfeld Pharmacy: The Optimal You Podcast Ep 42

Join host pharmacist Steve Irsfeld and guest Trevor Hausauer MSN, FNP-BC, as they discuss their thoughts on the technical aspects of compounded products made at the pharmacy lab. Listen in as

Discover Healthier Skin Care Options

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 23:55:30 GMT

Aesthetics with Trevor Hausauer, FNP, & Kira Kosminskas, RN

Are you looking for healthier alternatives to Botox and fillers in Fargo, ND? Join Trevor Hausauer, FNP, and Kira Kosminskas, RN, as they dive into the exciting world of aesthetics and skin rejuvenation. In this video, they explore:

Concerns about traditional Botox and fillers.
Advanced treatments like Morpheus8, Lumecca, Diolaze, and microneedling.
The added benefits of PRP, exosomes, and AnteAge skin care products.
Learn how these innovative options can help you achieve radiant, youthful skin while prioritizing your health and wellness.

�� Ready to learn more about Skin ReVitalized at Valley Vital Medicine? Visit our website:

https://valleyvitalmedicine.com/skin-revitalized

�� Schedule your FREE Nursing Aesthetic Consult today: 701-532-1926

Enhance your natural beauty with personalized care in Fargo, ND.

Rewire Your Brain with IASIS Neurofeedback

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 06:52:13 GMT

Transform Your Mind and Body

Are you ready to experience a breakthrough in brain health? IASIS Microcurrent Neurofeedback is a cutting-edge, non-invasive technology designed to help your brain reset and optimize its natural functions. Whether you’re looking to enhance mental clarity, reduce stress, or support recovery from chronic conditions, IASIS Neurofeedback offers incredible benefits.

In this video, we’ll uncover the top advantages of IASIS Neurofeedback, including:

Improved focus and mental clarity.
Relief from anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms.
Support for better sleep and relaxation.
Enhanced brain recovery from trauma or injury.
Long-lasting changes in emotional and cognitive wellness.

Learn how this revolutionary therapy can help you unlock your brain’s potential and achieve a better quality of life. We would love to do a short visit with you at our clinic to see if IASIS Neurofeedback is right for you.

Why Perfect Aminos Are a Game-Changer for Your Health

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 06:42:25 GMT

Interview with Dr. Minkoff

Discover why Perfect Aminos have become a best-seller at Valley Vital Medicine—and why so many people are raving about their results! In this exclusive interview with Dr. David Minkoff, the creator of Perfect Aminos, we dive into:

The current health challenges facing our nation.
How Functional Medicine is reshaping the future of wellness.
Why amino acids are vital for energy, recovery, and overall health.

If you’ve been curious about how to take your health to the next level, this is a must-watch conversation. Click the link below to learn more about Perfect Aminos and order yours today:

https://www.bodyhealthaffiliates.com/ ...

Unlock the Benefits of HOCATT Sauna

Sat, 11 Jan 2025 06:27:45 GMT

The Ultimate Wellness Experience

To book your own HOCATT™ sauna session at Valley Vital Medicine, give our office a call at 701-532-1926. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Discover how the HOCATT™ sauna can transform your health and elevate your wellness journey. This revolutionary device combines advanced therapies like ozone, infrared, steam, and more into one session, offering a comprehensive approach to detoxification, stress relief, and cellular rejuvenation.

In this video, we’ll explore the top benefits of HOCATT, including:

Enhanced detoxification to rid your body of toxins.
Improved circulation and oxygenation for better vitality.
Immune system support to keep you feeling your best.
Stress reduction and mental clarity through relaxation.
Anti-aging benefits for skin health and overall rejuvenation.

Join us as we dive into why the HOCATT sauna is a game-changer for anyone looking to optimize their health naturally and efficiently. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more functional wellness tips!

Our chat with the Noon Hour Morning Show

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 06:18:09 GMT

We recently chatted with Valley Vital Medicine about the importance and benefits of IV therapy.

IV and Injectable Therapy at Valley Vital Medicine

Sat, 30 Mar 2024 05:38:29 GMT

The History, The Nutrients, and The Benefits

During this webinar, we discussed the history of IV therapy, going back to the Myers cocktail and even before then! We discussed different IV Nutrients to include: Calcium, Magnesium, B vitamins, Vitamin C, Glutathione, High Dose Vitamin C, Ozone, High Dose Ozone, Extracorporeal Blood Ozonation and Oxygenation (EBOO), Alpha Lipoic Acid, and Methylene Blue.

Risks/benefits and appropriateness of these therapies is also discussed.

Our drips and experience include the following: Executive, Natural Defense, Fountain of Youth, Glutathione, High Dose Vitamin C, ALA, Ozone, and methylene blue.

To learn more or schedule an appointment for an IV Consult, click here.

Healthcare of the Future - Nutrient IV Therapy

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 05:34:39 GMT

Nutrient IV therapy is a beneficial and effective treatment option for improving overall health and preventing chronic diseases, but it is under-promoted and under-supported, and Valley Vital Medicine aims to expand access to these services.

New Day With Ashley: The Podcast

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 05:29:38 GMT

Functional medicine, with a focus on identifying root causes and making lifestyle changes, can improve patients' well-being and address various health issues. Listen to our own Trevor Hausauer talk to New Day With Ashley.

A Functional Medicine Approach to Health

Sun, 26 Feb 2023 05:06:27 GMT

Understanding the Root Causes at Valley Vital Medicine

Functional medicine aims to identify the root cause of a patient's symptoms rather than just treating the disease. Conventional medicine is better suited for acute illnesses and surgical interventions.

Functional medicine looks at a patient's history and identifies major areas of dysfunction, including gut health, toxicity, trauma, and tick-borne illnesses. By addressing these areas through nutrition, lifestyle changes, and therapies such as IV vitamin and ozone therapy, patients can experience significant improvements in their health and quality of life. The goal of functional medicine is to help patients achieve healing and live their lives to the fullest.

Functional Medicine at Valley Vital Medicine

Sat, 28 Jan 2023 05:01:42 GMT

Why we do, what we do

Trevor Hausauer is a family nurse practitioner certified through the Institute for Functional Medicine. He runs Valley Vital Medicine, a functional medicine clinic. Trevor's journey into functional medicine began when he was a child and his disabled brother required conventional medical treatment. His experiences with conventional medicine left an impression on him, and he decided to pursue a career in nursing. After working in an emergency department and intensive care unit, he realized that his passion was in helping people prevent the need for emergency medical treatment.

He was introduced to functional medicine by his clinical instructor, Rana Jawless, and was drawn to the approach of looking at the underlying root cause of disease. Hallsar's clinic offers hope to patients who have lost hope in their ability to get better. He and his staff care about their patients and are able to offer them new options for improving their health.

Let's Talk Intermittent Fasting

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 04:55:56 GMT

Learn how to get started, some best practices to get ideal results, and even some tricks we have learned to make this process even easier!

Curious About Intermittent Fasting?

If you’re interested in all things health, fitness, and wellness, you must have heard of Intermittent Fasting!

Whether you like the idea or hate it, the past few years have seen countless success stories emerge as a result of Intermittent Fasting (more than most other diets combined)!

‘But what is Intermittent Fasting?’

Intermittent fasting is ultimately an eating pattern and NOT a diet at all.

It usually involves periods of fasting, where only non-calorie beverages are consumed, countered with smaller ‘eating windows’ where you are, in essence, ‘free’ to eat whatever you like!

There is a little more to it, of course, but our webinar Let's Talk Intermittent Fasting is taking place on Friday, July 17th at 1:00 pm CDT and will be sharing enough information and insights to the world of Intermittent Fasting to help you decide whether or not it would work with your lifestyle

Change Your Eating Habits With This Proven Plan!

Intermittent fasting has been very popular for many years, and several different methods have been used.

All of them involve splitting the day or week into "eating periods" and "fasting periods." During the fasting periods, you eat either very little or nothing at all.

When you fast, several things happen in your body on the cellular and molecular level.

For example, your body changes hormone levels to make stored body fat more accessible.

Your cells also initiate important repair processes and change the expression of genes.

The Role of Immunity

Sun, 29 Mar 2020 04:50:52 GMT

The immune system is a complex group of defense responses that helps repel disease-causing organisms or pathogens.

The immune system is responsible for:

fighting disease-causing germs like bacteria, viruses, parasites or fungi, and removing them from the body.
recognizing and neutralizing harmful substances from the environment.
fighting disease-causing changes in the body, such as cancer cells.

Without an immune system, you would constantly get sick from germs, such as bacteria or viruses. In essence, your immune system is the gatekeeper deciding who can stay and who must go.

Infectious Disease is Still a Cause for Concern

In the not so distant past, infectious disease was the leading cause of death. These are conditions that can be transferred from person to person. Now, chronic conditions such as cancer and diabetes, which are associated with lifestyle factors, are responsible for morbidity.

However, this doesn't mean we're free from infectious disease. Illnesses such as the common cold, the flu, ear infections, strep throat, and stomach bugs are still prevalent. Fortunately, these conditions aren't as life-threatening as they once were.

We can thank our immune system for that! Learn more about how the immune system works and ways to keep your immune system healthy during The Role of Immunity.

Fix Your Gut, Save Your Life

Sat, 21 Mar 2020 04:28:44 GMT

The decline in gut health in the United States is costing people their lives due to its important roles as the first line of defense, second brain, and emotional center within our bodies.

Do you suffer from:

Digestive distress (bloating, excess gas, constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, IBS)
Skin issues (acne, eczema, rashes, dry or itchy skin)
Respiratory problems (heavy mucus production, regular colds)
Mood instability (depression, anxiety, irritability, increased anger)
Weight gain
Migraines
Brain Fog
Fatigue?

All of these things (and more) can be traced back to gut health. Luckily, functional medicine has proven methods to recognize the imbalances in your body, understand how to address them, and best support your gut healing journey.

EBOO cleared my brain fog in 30 minutes!

Thu, 04 Feb 1020 07:03:44 GMT

After struggling with COVID for a full week; constant chills, fatigue, and poor brain function, I was able to use the tools we have in the office to finally break through.

Last Thursday; I used Ivermectin, high dose ozone, and 100 grams of IV vitamin C to get me through the chills. However, the fatigue and brain fog remained. That’s where EBOO came in. About 30 minutes into this session, my brain fog lifted and fatigue significantly relieved. So thankful for these tools! Valley Vital Medicine in Fargo, ND has the tools to help you recover quickly!!