You’ve probably heard of medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro. Originally created for type 2 diabetes, they’re now all over social media as quick weight-loss solutions. But as their popularity soars, so do concerns about how they might impact both physical and mental health—especially for people with eating disorders.
GLP-1s: The Basics
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar, digestion, and appetite.
These medications:
Help the pancreas release insulin
Slow how quickly the stomach empties
Reduce appetite by acting on hunger signals in the brain
That combination can lead to weight loss, which is why some versions—like semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) and liraglutide (Saxenda)—are FDA-approved for it.
How Common Are They?
A recent survey found:
1 in 5 women have used a GLP-1 for weight loss
12% of all adults have taken one
14% say they’d like to try one
Women aged 30–65 are the most common users, but interest is growing across all age groups.
Why Social Media Fuels the Hype
Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are packed with before-and-after photos and testimonials. This fuels:
Body comparisons
“Quick fix” thinking
The rebranding of diet culture—restrictive eating now often shows up as clean eating, detoxing, or lifestyle changes, masking restriction under the label of self-care.
Potential Health Risks
GLP-1s can be helpful for some, but they also come with possible downsides:
GI discomfort (nausea, constipation, early fullness)
Gallbladder problems (gallstones, inflammation)
Pancreatitis (rare but serious)
Kidney injury from dehydration
Thyroid hormone changes
Nutrient deficiencies (vitamin D and B12 are common)
Loss of muscle mass if protein intake is too low
The Eating Disorder Connection
For people with eating disorders, GLP-1s can be risky because they:
Intensify restrictive eating behaviors
Make it hard to eat enough due to early fullness
Increase focus on weight and calorie control
Reduce food interest (“food noise”), which can slow recovery
Lead to electrolyte imbalances if vomiting occurs
Reinforce the idea that weight loss is the ultimate goal
Unsupervised Use Is on the Rise
Some people are now buying GLP-1s online without prescriptions—even if they don’t meet FDA criteria. This lack of medical oversight increases risks, both for physical side effects and for worsening eating disorder symptoms.
As a Dietitian: What Can You Do if Your Client is Using a GLP-1?
If you’re a provider, check in regularly with your patients about:
Their relationship with food
Energy levels
Mental health while on the medication
Bottom Line
GLP-1s can help manage blood sugar and, for some, support weight loss. But they’re not magic and not without risks, especially for those with eating disorders.
The appetite suppression that makes them appealing can also be the very thing that triggers dangerous eating patterns.
If your client is starting one, make sure it’s part of a carefully monitored, whole-person approach—not a stand-alone quick fix.
