The effects of game-changing GLP-1 medications on individuals and society was the topic of my recent keynote address at the Northwestern University Alumni Association event in Naples, Florida.
Individuals on GLP-1 medications are changing how they eat, shop, live, play and get their healthcare and companies are taking notice.
We usually think of big tech innovations, like computers, smart phones and AI as examples that have profound effects on society. Medications – not so much.
Historically, pharmacologic discoveries like antibiotics, vaccines, HIV therapies, anti-depressants and oral contraceptives have surely impacted how people live, work and play.
Whether you’re on or considering a GLP-1 medication, prescribing it for patients or just curious, I encourage everyone to start paying more attention to these rippling effects, highlighted here:
1-Restaurant/ Dining Sector
Restaurants are taking notice of the decreased appetite among the reported one in eight adults having tried or currently using GLP-1 medications.
The dining sector is adapting their menus to offer smaller plates, protein-rich selections and alcohol-free beverage options with mocktails or high protein drinks like smoothies.
Manny’s, a popular Chicago deli, has reported offering half sandwiches instead of their standard, giant portions.
2-Fitness Industry
Since muscle loss is a concern for people taking GLP-1 medications, gyms and fitness companies are turning their focus to resistance training and making available home strength training equipment.
Losing weight has helped individuals feel better and increases motivation to exercise.
At the same time, some fitness companies are partnering with telehealth companies that sell GLP-1 medications while other gyms sell protein supplements.
3-Food Industry/ Grocery Shopping
The food industry is noticing people spending less on groceries as they purchase fewer calories per trip.
At the same time, food companies are marketing “GLP-1 Friendly” frozen meals, protein bars and higher protein snack foods.
Sales are growing for high protein dairy foods, fresh produce and protein supplements while sales are declining for ultra-processed sweet and salty snacks and sugary sodas.
4-Healthcare
Traditional in-person visits with healthcare professionals are not the only way to get obesity care today.
Direct-to-consumer telehealth companies are prescribing medications without needing to make an appointment with your doctor for a consultation and physical examination.
This has important implications for how we treat individuals with the chronic disease of obesity – in the era of highly effective medications.
Because individuals are losing so much weight, we have also seen a decrease in bariatric surgeries.
These ripple effects of GLP-1 medications are astounding and will have a long-lasting influence on individuals and our society.
Food for thought!
RK
Robert Kushner, MD
