The landscape of Thanksgiving celebrations is poised to change dramatically, thanks to the rising influence of Ozempic and other GLP-1 based weight management medications. But here’s where it gets interesting: for the first time in many years, there’s tangible good news about obesity in the United States, sparking both hope and new challenges. According to the latest Gallup National Health and Well-Being Index, the obesity rate among American adults has decreased from a high of nearly 40% in 2022 to about 37% this year—a decline of roughly 7.6 million individuals struggling with obesity.
This downward trend could reshape the typical Thanksgiving feast, much to the surprise of many. The main factor behind this encouraging shift appears to be the widespread adoption of GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, and Mounjaro. The Gallup survey revealed that over 12% of adults in the second and third quarters of 2025 reported using these medications, a significant jump from less than 6% in early 2024. These drugs work by targeting hormones responsible for hunger signals sent to the brain and by slowing down food digestion, which leads to people naturally eating less—and potentially much less.
However, this approach isn’t without its complications. For individuals on GLP-1 drugs, overeating or eating too quickly can trigger nausea, heartburn, acid reflux, indigestion, and abdominal cramps. Moreover, these medications can heighten alcohol absorption, which might cause faster dehydration and intoxication. Naturally, Thanksgiving—an event celebrated primarily around abundant, delicious (but often calorie-rich) foods—can become a tricky situation for those on these drugs, their hosts, and everyone at the table.
So, what can Thanksgiving hosts do to accommodate guests taking GLP-1 medications? The traditional feast includes dishes like the golden roast turkey, gravy, stuffing, sweet potatoes coated in candied glaze, green bean casserole, macaroni and cheese, and pumpkin pie. Yet, for someone on a weight-loss drug, these foods might be less appealing or even problematic. If you’re the host and you’re aware that a guest is on such medication, consider ways to adapt your menu, such as serving a smaller turkey, possibly only the breast meat to save costs—since the USDA projects the average price of a frozen turkey to increase from about 94 cents per pound last year to approximately $1.32 this November.
Beyond just the main course, hosts can economize further by adjusting beverages. Studies have shown that nearly half of those taking GLP-1 drugs—ranging from 45% to 51%—reduce their alcohol intake. Offering plenty of water or unsweetened fruit juices is a good way to keep everyone hydrated, especially considering the dehydration risks linked with alcohol and the medications.
For guests on these drugs, maintaining their regular medication schedule during the holiday is important. Missing a dose won’t negate the benefits of the medication or help mitigate overeating, but it might cause undesirable side effects once they resume their regular intake.
Dietary focus can also shift. Guests may want to prioritize fiber-rich, green vegetables like Brussels sprouts, green beans (without fried onions or creamy sauces), and salads with dressings on the side. This doesn’t mean you need to eliminate starchy vegetables like potatoes or corn altogether, but swapping butter for healthier oils like olive oil and enhancing flavor with herbs instead of salt can make meals more compatible with weight management goals. As dietitian Dulce Garcia suggests, choosing a favorite dish and enjoying small portions can help balance tradition with health considerations.
In terms of dessert, dishes laden with sugar and starch—such as mac and cheese or rich biscuits—might be best avoided or enjoyed in moderation. Alternatively, hosts can offer smaller portions of fruit-based desserts, which tend to be satisfying yet lighter.
A more innovative idea comes from Dr. Chika Anekwe, who encourages families to rethink their culinary traditions and embrace new ones. Flavoring food with herbs and spices instead of salt or fat can make meals healthier. Additionally, replacing long hours at the dining table with fun activities or games encourages a shift away from food-centered festivities. She also recommends that guests avoid taking home leftovers, arguing that there’s no need to stretch a single meal into an entire week.
Of course, with the focus on food, the conversation around the table can become another source of stress—especially for those managing their weight or on medication. The pressure to explain dietary choices or medication can lead to uncomfortable questions or judgments, which can dampen the holiday spirit. According to Dr. Bajaj, it’s important to remind family and friends that using these medications is a health-positive choice, aimed at improving well-being. Overeating, after all, can lead to health issues—something that weight loss drugs are designed to help avoid.
And here’s an interesting twist—given the rising number of Americans using GLP-1 drugs, these medications are becoming increasingly common. For guests, this might mean focusing less on table etiquette or food debates and more on celebrating with non-food activities, like engaging in conversations about topics ranging from politics to hobbies.
In the end, the evolving landscape of Thanksgiving—shaped by medical innovations and changing attitudes—offers an opportunity for reflection, adaptation, and perhaps, a new way of celebrating that prioritizes health without sacrificing the joy of the holiday. What do you think? Are these shifts a positive step toward healthier traditions, or do they risk dampening the festive spirit? Share your thoughts in the comments—your perspective could spark an insightful discussion.
