Weight-loss drugs are causing people to spend less at the grocery store: study
A study by Grocery Doppio shows weight-loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy lead users to spend less on groceries, buy healthier foods, and significantly reduce purchases of snacks and sugary items.
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A recent study by Grocery Doppio reveals that weight-loss medications such as Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Wegovy are significantly impacting grocery shopping habits. Users of these drugs, initially designed for Type 2 diabetes treatment, are spending less on groceries and opting for healthier food choices. The study indicates that individuals on these medications purchase 52% fewer snacks and confectionery items, 47% less baked goods, 28% less soda and sugary drinks, 17% less alcohol, and 13% less processed food. In contrast, there is an increase in the purchase of healthy foods, particularly lean proteins.
Participants in the study reported a change in their appetites and food preferences, leading to a healthier grocery basket. For instance, one user noted a shift from fast food to high-protein meals and a reduction in overall grocery spending by about 11%. The findings suggest that these medications alter not only the quantity of food consumed but also the quality, as users tend to crave lighter, healthier options. Approximately 1.7% of Americans were prescribed a semaglutide medication last year, highlighting the growing trend of using these drugs for weight management. Overall, the study underscores the broader implications of weight-loss drugs on consumer behavior and the food industry.
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11 comments"Amy Cohn, General Mills’ senior manager for nutrition and external affairs, promoted the cereal company’s anti-diet messaging to a room of registered dietitians at a national food conference this past fall. Cohn denounced the media for “pointing the finger at processed foods” and making consumers feel ashamed of their choices. “You can help derail the cycle of shame,” Cohn told the dietitians. During the session, Kathryn Lawson, a registered dietitian and director of regulatory and scientific affairs at the food giant Nestlé, tweeted: “People need to feel heard and seen to help break the cycle of shame when it comes to losing weight and eating.” Turns out there are a large number of paid fat influencers.
[1] https://www.wsj.com/business/ozempic-impact-snack-food-compa...
[2] https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2024/04/03/diet-cult...
They essentially reduce food addiction/cravings. Significantly reduce T2 diabetes risks via two distinct mechanisms. It is interesting the moral stance people place on this and how you don't see the same thing on nicotine patches or other cessation products.
Seemingly if people are overweight that is a moral failing, and doing something that helps live a healthy lifestyle is also a moral failing. These drugs literally cause people to crave vegetables, and that is bad because they aren't raw-dogging it.
Ultimately the only problem here is the criminally high prices. Hopefully other countries can get a better rate so more lives saved/chronic diseases mitigated.
https://www.grocerydoppio.com/performance-scorecard/state-of...
I really dislike that most stories try to taint it in the "diet trend", "TikTok challenge" light, obesity is a serious illness which is extremely unhealthy and leads to many many preventable deaths, this drug is a miracle.
And yeah, there shortages, but then the drug stores shall give out this drug to those who need it the most, and not who pays the most. It's not like the US healthcare system is fair anyways. And also the suppliers can ramp up production (as they are already doing).
Friendly reminder: The STEP 5 trial of semaglutide showed that even in long-term usage a sort of "cutoff" BMI is reached, so even skinny/normal bodied people who take semaglutide don't drop to an anorexic level BMI, but stay above the 18.5 line (after which you are considered underweight) [1].
[1] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-022-02026-4/figures/2
medication -> appetite suppression -> you want to eat less food -> you buy less food
The problem is it makes it far less likely we'll address our poisonous food system. The US subsidises (crops including those that produce) HFCS to the tune of billions. Fresh fruit and vegetables aren't subsided. Advertising has been shown to impact consumer behaviour in other countries.
These drugs are, provisionally, miracle drugs. But they must be paired with regulation otherwise whatever addictive poison the industry comes up with next will repeat the cycle until everyone on earth is on them.
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'Skinny jabs': weight-loss drugs set for new boom as generic versions emerge
Medicines like Wegovy and Saxenda, known as "skinny jabs," are gaining popularity for weight loss. Generic versions, like Teva's generic Victoza, are expected to increase accessibility and affordability, benefiting a broader population. Novo Nordisk invests $4 billion to meet rising demand.
Rare form of eye stroke that causes blindness now linked to Ozempic and Wegovy
A study links Ozempic and Wegovy to increased risk of rare blindness (NAION) in diabetes and obesity patients. While causation isn't confirmed, caution and consultation with healthcare providers are advised. Novo Nordisk prioritizes patient safety.
GLP-1 Drugs Like Wegovy, Ozempic Potentially Linked to Blinding Disease
A study suggests a potential link between GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide and a rare blinding disease called NAION in patients with diabetes or obesity. Further research is needed to clarify this association.
Popular Prescription Weight Loss Drugs Linked to Uncommon Blinding Condition
A study links semaglutide use to increased risk of NAION in diabetes and weight loss patients. Discussion on risks is crucial despite lack of causality, urging further research for clarity.
Not Everyone Loses Weight on Ozempic
Some patients may not achieve significant weight loss with GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, despite promising trial results. Factors like genetics and adherence influence responses. Newer drugs like tirzepatide aim to improve effectiveness.