For the more than 15 million U.S. adults who currently take Ozempic or another GLP-1 drug for diabetes or weight loss, Thanksgiving may look a little different than it did before they started taking the medication.
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) drugs reduce appetite by sending satiety signals to the brain and slowing stomach emptying.
Common side effects include nausea, constipation, and reflux.
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“The rate at which food (and acid) is excreted from the stomach has slowed down significantly, almost to a backup state,” Dr. Brett Osborn, a Florida neurologist and longevity expert, told Fox News. told Digital.
“Essentially, they are ‘injectable satiety’ and in some cases can cause disorders.”
For the more than 15 million American adults who currently take Ozempic or another GLP-1 drug for diabetes or weight loss, this year’s Thanksgiving meal may look a little different. (St. Petersburg)
Dr. Osborn often prescribes GLP-1 to his patients as an effective treatment for obesity and type 2 diabetes, but he recognizes the gastrointestinal side effects and cautions special attention to food size and macronutrient content. I advise you to pay.
“With some planning and strategy, you can enjoy your vacation without compromising your health goals.”
“Spending Thanksgiving while taking GLP-1 medications may be a little different, but with some planning and strategy, you can enjoy Thanksgiving without compromising your health goals.” “We’re thrilled to be working with Dr. Britta Layerson, a family physician and medical director at Knownwell in Minneapolis. Minnesota, told Fox News Digital.
Doctors gave the following advice for the upcoming holiday:
choose food wisely
“If your appetite is reduced because of a GLP-1 drug like Ozempic, focus on eating small amounts of nutritious foods,” Osborn says.
“Prioritize lean proteins, low-starchy vegetables, and fiber-rich side dishes to meet your nutritional needs without taxing your digestive system.”
“If your appetite is reduced because of a GLP-1 drug such as Ozempic, focus on eating small amounts of nutritious foods,” the doctor advised. (St. Petersburg)
Layerson agreed that lean protein and vegetables should be the main components of the diet. “Turkey, roasted vegetables and salads are great options,” she said.
It’s wise to limit high-fat and sugary foods, Ryerson added.
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“You can enjoy these foods in moderation, but keep portion sizes small to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort,” she said.
“Also avoid fried foods, which are difficult to digest and can cause or worsen nausea.”
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Osborne recommended incorporating healthier versions of traditional foods whenever possible.
“For example, choose roasted vegetables instead of a buttery casserole or turkey breast without gravy to reduce unnecessary fat,” she suggests. did.
Experts recommend choosing healthier versions of traditional foods whenever possible. (St. Petersburg)
“Remember, fat slows stomach emptying, which is why you feel full when you eat a fatty meal.”
Osborn noted that taking GLP-1 drugs already slows gastric emptying, and ingesting large amounts of fat at once can cause nausea and vomiting.
choose smaller pieces
Experts recommended feeding small portions of their favorite foods.
“You can enjoy traditional Thanksgiving food, but in much smaller portions,” Osborn said. “Focus on eating a few bites of high-calorie food rather than eating a large meal.”
Layerson agrees, adding: “You can enjoy all the variety and richness of your diet without overeating.”
“Listen to your body and don’t feel pressured to eat an entire plate if you’re not hungry.”
eat consciously
Osborne warned that taking too much while taking GLP-1 drugs can cause nausea and discomfort.
“Listen to your body and don’t feel pressured to eat an entire plate if you’re not hungry,” he says. “Eat in small portions, chew slowly and enjoy the taste.”
“You can enjoy all the variety and richness of your diet without overeating,” the expert said. (St. Petersburg)
She points out that these drugs can help you feel full faster, so it’s important to pay close attention to your body’s signals.
“Remember that there is a delay between when you eat and when you feel full,” Osborn says. “And if we’re not careful, this could hit us like a tsunami.”
She added: “Stop eating as soon as you feel satisfied, not full.”
plan leftovers
If you can’t clear the dishes in one go, pack them up and take them home.
“You can enjoy your favorite holiday dishes over several days, so there’s no need to overindulge during the meal,” Reyerson points out.
Stay hydrated
Hydration is important for everyone, but especially for those taking GLP-1 medications.
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“GLP-1 drugs can slow gastric emptying, so dehydration can worsen side effects. Drink water throughout the day and immediately after meals.”
don’t skip meals
“Avoid the temptation to skip meals earlier in the day to ‘save up’ for a larger meal,” Reyerson advised.
“This can often backfire and cause overeating and discomfort.”
Make sure to use simple and polite language
If someone comments on how small your portion size is, Osborn recommended keeping it “simple and polite.”
Doctors said people should not feel obligated to explain their medications unless they feel comfortable doing so. (St. Petersburg)
“You could also say, ‘I’m not that hungry today, but everything looks great,’ or ‘I feel sick when I eat a lot, so I’m concentrating on smaller portions,'” he suggested.
Doctors added that people shouldn’t feel obligated to explain their medications unless they’re comfortable with it.
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“GLP-1 agonists have become more widely accepted because so many people are now taking them.”
Don’t be afraid to communicate openly, says Ryerson.
Experts recommend that if you can’t put away all the dishes at once, pack them up and take them home. (St. Petersburg)
“Explain that you are taking medications that affect your appetite,” she said.
“If you don’t feel comfortable sharing, it may be helpful to simply deflect the conversation in a positive way, such as saying you’re focusing on eating healthier or that you’re not as hungry.”
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Overall, the key is to keep it simple, Reyerson said.
“With a little care, you can enjoy Thanksgiving without side effects.”
