Medications for type-2 diabetes, weight loss also impact food preferences

As the popularity of medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists or GLP-1s) rises, questions have emerged about how these drugs affect food preferences and consumption. While earlier research established that GLP-1s suppress appetite and promote weight loss, little was known about their influence on specific food categories and overall dietary behavior. This gap limited the ability of health professionals, policymakers and the food industry to respond to changing consumer needs. 

Researchers in the agricultural economics and agribusiness department with the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station surveyed nearly 2,000 participants, including current, previous, potential and non-users of GLP-1s. The study collected self-reported data on consumption changes across a range of food and beverage categories, aiming to quantify dietary shifts associated with GLP-1 use.  

The study found that GLP-1 users significantly reduced their intake of processed foods, soda, refined grains and red meat. About 70% more respondents reported decreased consumption of processed foods than those who reported an increase. Similarly, there were about 50% more respondents who reported consuming less soda, refined grains and beef than those who reported consuming more of those foods. 

Chicken, coffee, fish and seafood, nuts, eggs, plant-based meat, whole grains and plant-based milk also saw a relatively smaller dip in consumption, ranging from 10 to 25% of respondents reporting decreases in consumption compared to increases. The research also documented modest reductions in foods like dairy milk, alcohol, pork and starchy vegetables. Fruits, leafy greens and water were the only categories that saw a net increase in consumption.  

The findings provide key insights for multiple stakeholders. For food and beverage companies, the reduced demand for processed products signals the need for innovation in offerings. According to the researchers, marketers have already begun adjusting product lines to appeal to GLP-1 users, with examples including “GLP-1 Support” menu items and meal-replacement bars. For healthcare professionals and policymakers, the data support designing complementary recommendations and communications strategies for patients using GLP-1s.  

Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station | Project supported by state appropriations.