This Thanksgiving, a profound shift is occurring at dining tables across the United States, driven by the widespread use of a powerful new class of medications.
A New Reality for Holiday Feasts
The traditional indulgence of the Thanksgiving meal is being redefined for millions of Americans. Approximately 12 percent of American adults are currently using GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic or Wegovy. These drugs are renowned for their ability to significantly curb appetite, leading to substantial changes in eating habits during large holiday gatherings.
Morgan Williams is one such user, whose experience highlights this dramatic change. She has lost an impressive 70 pounds and now finds she feels full much faster. Her approach to the Thanksgiving feast this year will be markedly different. Williams plans to take small portions of traditional dishes primarily to avoid upsetting her family, but she anticipates she will not eat much due to her medically reduced appetite.
Navigating Stigma and Family Dynamics
Beyond the physical effects, users of these medications often face a challenging social landscape. There is a significant perceived stigma surrounding GLP-1 medications, which causes considerable anxiety for individuals like Williams. The fear of potential comments or judgement from family members during holiday gatherings is a very real concern, with users worrying about how to explain their changed relationship with food without inviting scrutiny.
Experts are now weighing in with crucial advice for families coming together this holiday season. They strongly advise relatives to refrain from commenting on a loved one's reduced appetite or changes in eating habits. The core message from professionals is that food operates as a cultural language, and holidays like Thanksgiving can be intensely stressful for anyone managing a complex relationship with food, a situation now amplified for millions on these medications.
The Personal Cost of a Changing Appetite
For Williams, the emotional dimension is as important as the physical one. Her primary concern isn't just managing her own intake, but the potential impact on her loved ones. She has expressed a sentiment shared by many in her position, stating, 'I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings'. This highlights the delicate balance users are trying to strike between their health goals and maintaining cherished family traditions during a time centred around shared meals.
