The Skinny on GLP-1s

What are GLP-1s? What is the impact on the body? What is the impact on the food industry?

Based on an article in Food Technology (GLP-1s: The Next Wave of Weight Loss (Food Tech 2026), here is the skinny on GLP-1s.
https://www.ift.org/news-and-publications/food-technology-magazine/issues/2025/march/columns/nutraceuticals-glp1s-the-next-wave-of-weight-loss

Type - GLP-1s - glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist

Trade names - Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus

Function -

• "GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone in the body, released from the gut after eating. It boosts the amount of insulin the body makes to keep blood sugar within a normal range and also provides satiety."
• "The GLP-1 receptor agonist medications bind to GLP-1 receptors, triggering the effects of the GLP-1 hormone on insulin regulation and appetite." 
• "It boosts the amount of insulin the body makes to keep blood sugar within a normal range and also provides satiety."

Impact on health

• Reduces a person's appetite and weight during the first few weeks of taking GLP-1s
• Helps to manage type 2 diabetes and obesity and help prevent cardiovascular disease
• "With a decreased appetite, people taking GLP-1s need to prioritize their nutrient intake in smaller portions of food."  Reducing food intact can lead to muscle loss if protein intact is not maintained.  Can impact digestive system so fiber intake must be managed.  Water intact is increased.

Impact on food industry

• "Research revealed that GLP-1 weight loss users make fewer food and beverage purchases during the first three months of use and return closer to benchmark levels by the end of their first year on the medication."
• "GLP-1 weight loss users spend more on foods that support GLP-1 balance and make fewer purchases of products they’re recommended to avoid. Categories such as high-protein, ready-to-eat meals and portion-controlled snacks are well-positioned to meet the needs of GLP-1 users, showing potential for growth."
• People will buy less foods with high carbohydrates, and avoid fried, fatty foods and are more likely to focus on high protein and produce.