As the holiday season approaches, individuals using GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy face unique challenges that go far beyond the physical benefits of weight loss. These drugs, which work by mimicking the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1, have become a popular option for managing obesity and improving metabolic health. However, their appetite-suppressing effects and other side effects have complicated the social dynamics of traditional holiday meals, which often revolve around food, celebration, and familial bonding. For many users, the holidays can become a time of emotional strain as they navigate the tension between their health goals and the cultural expectations of indulgence.
Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, a board-certified endocrinologist and leader in weight-loss medicine, has observed that the psychological impact of weight loss is often under-discussed. In an interview with Fox News Digital, she explained that patients may experience a range of emotions, including shame, guilt, or even confusion, as they adjust to their new bodies and lifestyles. “Many patients don’t see themselves as that new weight,” she said. “They see themselves as they were before. Some patients have a hard time understanding how they’re being treated better now than before, even though they’re the same person.”
These emotional challenges are compounded by societal attitudes toward weight loss and the use of medication. Salas-Whalen noted that some family members or friends may not fully grasp the reasons behind a patient’s dietary restrictions, leading to questions or even accusations. “It’s going to be very hard for somebody to not say, ‘Are you sick? Why are you not eating?’” she explained. “Your body has changed completely, you’ve lost 80 pounds, and now you’re eating half of what you normally would eat, and maybe you’re not drinking. So, people are going to wonder.” This can create a sense of isolation for users, who may feel caught between their health priorities and the social expectations of their relationships.
While some patients may experience physical changes such as excess skin, altered body temperature sensitivity, or shifts in shoe sizes, the mental and emotional aspects of their journey often go unrecognized. Salas-Whalen emphasized the importance of addressing these psychological factors as part of a comprehensive approach to weight loss. “We’re not doing anything for the psyche part of weight loss,” she stated. “The psyche doesn’t move as fast as the weight loss can happen.” This insight underscores the need for ongoing support systems, both medical and social, to help individuals manage the full spectrum of challenges that come with using GLP-1 medications.
In response to these complexities, Salas-Whalen advises patients to communicate openly with their loved ones about their health journey. She recommends setting clear boundaries during social events and explaining the reasons behind their dietary changes. “It’s harder if you want to keep it a secret, but even if it’s kept a secret, you can just say, ‘I am full and this is it, and I’d appreciate it if you didn’t keep pursuing,’” she said. “It’s just setting boundaries that we sometimes don’t have with family — but I do encourage patients to share their [journeys].” By fostering understanding and empathy, Salas-Whalen believes patients can navigate the holidays more gracefully while maintaining their health goals.
Furthermore, she highlighted the broader role of GLP-1 drugs in public health. While these medications have the potential to significantly extend the lives of Americans, as suggested by some researchers, they also present new challenges in terms of societal integration. “For the first time in history, we’re having masses of people achieve weight-loss goals that never were possible before,” she noted. This transformation reflects a growing trend in medical treatment for obesity, but it also raises important questions about how society adapts to these changes. Ultimately, the success of GLP-1 therapy depends not only on its physical benefits but also on the support systems and mental health resources available to help patients navigate the complex social and emotional aspects of their journey.