How GLP-1s Like Ozempic and Wegovy Are Changing Food Habits

According to a fascinating and rigorous new study from researchers at Cornell University, one curious side effect of the drugs: They’re changing how much food we buy and even the types of food we buy.

New, fascinating research from Sylvia Hristakeva and Jura Liaukonyte, two economists at Cornell University, could have significant implications for how we think about food, health, and even grocery shopping.

Their study doesn’t focus on the physical effects of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, which are used to manage diabetes, support weight loss, and more. Instead, it dives into a less-expected impact: how these medications are transforming food purchasing behavior and the food industry itself.

Here are some insights from their work:

GLP-1 Adoption Is Skyrocketing

As of May, 1 in 8 Americans had tried a GLP-1, with 7 million currently using one. By 2035, that number is projected to hit 24 million. These medications work by reducing hunger and slowing stomach emptying, leading to less food consumption and, for some, significant weight loss—up to 15% of body weight.

One standout finding? After years of steadily rising obesity rates, 2023 marked the first recorded decline. While this can’t be directly attributed to GLP-1s, they are a likely factor.

How GLP-1s Are Changing Food Purchases

Using data from Numerator, a company that tracks consumer shopping habits, Hristakeva and Liaukonyte analyzed how food purchases changed in households where someone started using a GLP-1. They compared these households to control groups unaffected by the drugs to isolate the effects.

Key findings include:

• Overall Spending Dropped: Households with a GLP-1 user reduced grocery spending by about 6%, and higher-income households saw a 9% reduction.

• Spending Patterns Shifted: The biggest spending cuts came from ultra-processed and savory snacks (down 11%), but reductions also occurred across categories like meat, dairy, and even eggs. Fresh produce and yogurt were the only categories that saw increases.

• Weight Loss vs. Diabetes Users: Those using GLP-1s for weight loss bought less candy and alcohol, while diabetes users didn’t change these purchases as much.

The Ripple Effect on Families

What’s fascinating is that these changes in shopping habits often affect the entire household. When the primary shopper in a home starts buying less junk food and more fruits and vegetables, it can lead to healthier eating patterns for everyone.

Implications for the Food Industry

This shift is already prompting changes in the food industry. For instance, Healthy Choice has introduced “GLP-1-friendly” labels on high-protein frozen meals. Companies heavily reliant on calorie-dense, processed foods may need to rethink their strategies as demand shifts toward healthier options.

At the same time, food labs are exploring ways to create GLP-1-friendly versions of popular processed items like snacks and frozen meals. Expect to see more packaged foods emphasizing protein and nutrient density.

Supporting Health, Fitness, Recovery, and Quality of Life

The implications of this research go far beyond grocery receipts. For those of us focused on overall wellness, these findings highlight how GLP-1 medications can act as a catalyst for better health habits, both individually and within families. By reducing reliance on ultra-processed foods and increasing consumption of fresh produce, users may experience better energy levels, improved recovery from physical activity, and even enhanced long-term fitness.

Moreover, these medications’ impact on food choices supports healthier weight management, which can lower the risk of chronic conditions and improve overall quality of life. Whether you’re an athlete, someone recovering from an injury, or simply working toward healthier habits, this shift toward more mindful eating can complement your goals.

For a deeper dive into the research, you can read the full Cornell study here: Cornell Study on GLP-1 and Food Purchases.

Here’s to healthier choices—whether they’re inspired by GLP-1s or just good habits!