Enjoying the holidays on a GLP-1: What you need to know

GLP-1 medications are taking center stage and promising rapid weight loss results for patients. Ads on television and online, in addition to word of mouth, mean more people than ever are interested in GLP-1 drugs and starting their own weight loss journey. For many, this may be the first holiday season that they are celebrating while on a GLP-1 medication.

Before filling up on holiday ham, pie, cookie platters and a few festive cocktails, it's helpful to understand how GLP-1 medication affects your digestive system and may alter your relationship with food. You want to celebrate in style, but not to the point where holiday food and drinks are going to put you into gastrointestinal distress.

What you need to know to enjoy the holidays on a GLP-1

So, you've started on GLP-1 injectables, but holiday feasts and buffets are just around the corner. How do you prepare yourself both mentally and physically? Roy Kim, MD, offered some helpful tips to help you enjoy the tastes of the season without feeling guilty or overwhelming your gut during the holidays.

"It's important to review what GLP-1 injectables do to your body, and framing your mind to realize that you can have even more fun over the holidays without worrying about food," said Dr. Kim. "As you know, GLP-1 injectables suppress your appetite, so you may not feel the urge to eat. Your dopamine reward for drinking alcohol may be suppressed. And for this holiday season, you can focus more on catching up with others, going for a walk outside and not worrying so much about eating."

GLP-1 medications help patients lose weight, partially by slowing gastric emptying. By delaying how quickly food moves from the stomach to the small intestine, you feel fuller for longer, preventing you from eating more. Slowing the digestion process can also help control blood sugar levels. Plus, these drugs also act on the brain, sending signals that reduce hunger.

Holidays, in particular, are a time when overindulgence in food and alcoholic beverages is common. However, patients on GLP-1 medications may need to adjust habits and expectations. You can still enjoy everything that makes the holidays shine with a few changes.

Answers to common holiday questions

ASPS: Are there special considerations individuals on GLP-1 medications should be aware of during the holidays?

Dr. Kim: In terms of the holiday feast, think more that you are eating a 12-course meal on a small plate with tiny portions and less fatty options. If you eat normally, you may find that afterwards you may have severe nausea. Being able to sample food, but not binge-eating, will help you tremendously after the meal is over.

Eating high-quality protein will curb your appetite. Hydration is vital, since many patients may not "feel" as hungry or thirsty because their appetite is suppressed.

Listen to the "soft stop." When you feel slightly full, stop eating for 20 to 30 minutes to see if you are full. Remember, your appetite is suppressed, and GI motility is slowed with GLP-1 injectables.

ASPS: Can you consume alcoholic beverages during celebrations? 

Dr. Kim: Regarding alcohol and toasts, try to either stick to one glass of alcohol or even use bubbly water or plain water for any toasts. No one really notices if you are drinking real alcohol, so this is a great way to participate in holiday festivities. Hangovers on GLP-1 injectables can be worse than normal because many patients may have slight dehydration and slight electrolyte imbalances.

ASPS: Any other tips to help make the holiday enjoyable and avoid gastrointestinal distress?

Dr. Kim: Talk to your doctor, of course, but in general, it's probably better to stick to your regular injection cycle and dosage. Speak to your prescribing doctor with any questions or concerns. And of course, you may need OTC medications to help you with any gas buildup, just in case you slightly overindulged over the holiday meal.

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