For more than 15 million adults in the United States who are taking Ozempic or other GLP-1 medicines for diabetes or weight loss. Thanksgiving may look a little different than before you started taking the drug.
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) drugs reduce appetite by sending satiety signals to the brain. and slows down bowel movement in the stomach
Common side effects include nausea, constipation, and acid reflux.
Does OZEMPIC push seniors? Some doctors say people 65 and older should get treatment.
“The rate of emptying food (and acid) in the stomach slows down significantly. Almost to the point of reserve,” Dr. Brett Osborn, a Florida neuroscientist and longevity expert, told Fox News Digital.
“They’re basically ‘injectable satiety’ and sometimes they make mistakes.”
This year’s Thanksgiving meal may look a little different for the more than 15 million adults in the United States. who are taking Ozempic or another GLP-1 medicine to treat diabetes or weight loss (Istock)
Osborne frequently prescribes GLP-1s to his patients as an effective treatment for obesity and type 2 diabetes, but he acknowledges their digestive side effects. It advises people to pay special attention to the portion size and macronutrient content of meals.
“With some planning and strategy. You can enjoy the holidays without compromising on your health goals.”
“Living through Thanksgiving while on GLP-1 medication may be slightly different. But with some planning and strategy. You can enjoy the holidays without compromising your health goals,” Dr. Britta Reierson, a family physician and medical director of Knowwell in Minneapolis, Minnesota, told Fox News Digital.
Doctors offer the following tips for the upcoming holidays.
Choose food wisely
“If your appetite is decreased because of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, focus on small amounts of nutrient-dense foods,” Osborne says.
“Prioritize lean protein. non-starchy vegetables and foods that are high in fiber to meet your nutritional needs without overloading your digestive system.”
“If your appetite is reduced because of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, focus on small amounts of nutrient-dense foods,” doctors advise. (Istock)
Reierson agrees that lean protein and vegetables should be the main components of a meal. “Turkey, grilled vegetables, and salad are great choices,” she says.
It’s also a good idea to limit foods high in fat and sugar, Reierson adds.
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“You can still enjoy these foods in moderation. But it should be taken in small amounts to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort,” she said.
“Fried food should also be avoided. This is because it can be difficult to digest and may make nausea worse.”
Look for smart trade-offs.
Osborne recommends including healthy, traditional foods whenever possible.
“For example: Choose grilled vegetables instead of a buttery casserole. Or opt for turkey breast without gravy to cut down on unnecessary fat,” he advises.
Experts recommend choosing healthy, traditional foods whenever possible. (Istock)
“Remember that Fat slows down the expulsion of waste in the stomach. That’s why you feel full when you eat fatty foods.”
When GLP-1 is taken, gastric emptying is slowed down. Osborne noted. This means that eating too much fat in one sitting can cause nausea and vomiting.
Opt for smaller portions.
Experts recommend scooping small portions of your favorite dishes.
“You can enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal. But in much smaller quantities,” Osborne said. “Focus on a few bites of high-calorie food rather than a full serving.”
Reierson agrees, adding, “You can still enjoy the variety and richness of your meals without overeating.”
“Listen to your body. And don’t feel pressured to eat the entire plate if you’re not hungry.”
Eat mindfully
Taking too much GLP-1 can cause nausea or discomfort, Osborn warns.
“Listen to your body. And don’t feel pressured to eat the whole dish if you’re not hungry,” he says. “You can take small bites, chew slowly, and savor the flavor.”
“You can still enjoy the variety and abundance of food without overeating,” experts say. (Istock)
This is because these medicines will help you feel full faster. It’s important to pay close attention to your body’s signals, he said.
“Remember, there is a delay between eating and the perception of fullness,” Osborne says. “And this can hit you like a tidal wave if you aren’t careful.”
He added: “Stop eating as soon as you feel full, not full.”
Plan for leftovers
If you can’t wash the dishes all at once Just pack it and take it home.
“You can enjoy your favorite holiday foods for many days. So there is no need to overeat during meals,” says Reierson.
Maintain moisture
Hydration is important for everyone. Especially those who use GLP-1 drugs.
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This is because GLP-1 drugs can slow down gastric emptying. Dehydration can make side effects worse. Drink water throughout the day and shortly after meals.”
Don’t skip meals.
“Avoid the temptation to skip the day’s breakfast to ‘save’ for the larger meal,” Reierson advises.
“This often backfires and can lead to overeating and discomfort.”
Keep it simple and polite.
If someone comments on your small size, Osborne recommends making it. “Simple and polite”
You should not feel the need to explain your medication. Unless you’re comfortable doing so, doctors say. (Istock)
“You might say ‘I’m not very hungry today. But everything looks amazing’ or ‘I’m focusing on small meals. Because big meals make me feel bad,’” he advises.
You should not feel the need to explain your medication. Unless you are comfortable doing so. The doctor added.
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“GLP-1 agonists are now becoming more widely accepted as more people use them.”
Don’t be afraid to communicate openly, Reierson says.
If you can’t wash the dishes all at once Just pack it and take it home. Experts recommend (Istock)
“Explain that you are taking medications that affect your appetite,” she says.
“If you’re not comfortable sharing, It might also work if you shift your focus to healthier eating habits. Or you’re not very hungry.”
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Overall, Reierson says it’s important to keep it simple.
“With a little bit of mindfulness You can enjoy Thanksgiving without side effects.”
