The holiday season is a time of joy, family, and, let’s face it, endless temptations—especially when it comes to food. But for those on GLP-1 weight loss medications, this time of year can feel like navigating a minefield of mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie. Long Islanders like Linda McMahon, 57, of Patchogue, are finding creative ways to enjoy the festivities while staying on track with their health goals. Linda, part of what she jokingly calls the 'Mounjaro crew,' shares a laughable memory of her Thanksgiving: 'If you saw our plates, you’d think we were birds—tiny portions of ham, mashed potatoes, and green beans. I even skipped the bread!'
This scenario is becoming increasingly common as more people turn to GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Mounjaro for dramatic weight loss. But here’s where it gets controversial: while these medications have proven effective, they’ve also sparked debates about accessibility, insurance costs, and long-term success. According to a recent report, spending on GLP-1 receptor agonists skyrocketed from $13.7 billion to $71.7 billion between 2018 and 2023. A KFF poll revealed that 1 in 8 adults are currently taking these drugs, yet half struggle with affordability.
So, how are users managing the holidays? Some, like Linda, focus on smaller portions and occasional treats. Others 'pregame' by eating healthy meals before parties. And this is the part most people miss: a growing number consider skipping their medication for a week or two to fully indulge, despite warnings from experts like Dr. Michael Kaplan, a board-certified obesity specialist. 'Going off the medicine is often counterproductive,' he advises, emphasizing that holiday indulgences should be brief and mindful.
GLP-1 drugs, or Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, mimic hormones released during digestion, reducing hunger and slowing metabolism. Originally designed for diabetes patients, they’ve become a game-changer for obesity treatment. However, side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common, though many users report relief by adjusting dosages or switching medications.
Take Tamara Oliver, a 58-year-old vegan from Selden, who lost nearly 90 pounds with the help of Zepbound and exercise. She’s learned to balance her lifestyle by bringing her own food to gatherings and checking restaurant menus in advance. Yet, she admits to occasional indulgences, like the non-vegan peppermint bark she couldn’t resist last Christmas. 'You’re never going to be perfect,' she says with a shrug. 'It’s okay.'
But is relying on medication a sustainable solution? Critics argue that long-term success depends on lifestyle changes, not just pills. Tamara counters, 'You still have to work, eat right, and be kind to yourself. Those things don’t change.'
For Ingrid Dodd, 57, of Lido Beach, GLP-1 has transformed her holidays. Once obsessed with food, she now enjoys parties stress-free, often 'pregaming' with a protein shake and staying hydrated. 'It’s made my holidays so enjoyable,' she says, crediting her doctor-guided approach and exercise routine.
Senior Nurse Practitioner Faina Norinskiy offers practical advice: 'Food is a big part of celebrations, and that’s okay. Focus on quality meals and balanced portions.' She encourages patients to feel empowered, whether they take a slice of pie or politely decline. 'A few bites can be enough,' she reassures.
Christine Bond, 57, of Queens, echoes this sentiment. Having lost 122 pounds, she no longer obsesses over food. 'I enjoy a scoop of ice cream and think, ‘Wow, that was good,’ and I’m done,' she shares. Her secret? Fiber-rich meals and mindful indulgence.
So, what’s your take? Are GLP-1 drugs a revolutionary tool for weight loss, or do they risk overshadowing the need for holistic lifestyle changes? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation that goes beyond the holiday table.
