New YouGov research has revealed a notable influence on how those taking weight loss medication approach food, drink and grocery shopping.
YouGov’s new Health and Wellbeing Tracker examines how the use of these medications correlates with changes in grocery spending and eating habits, highlighting shifts in both consumption patterns and overall food-related expenditure. It found that around eight per cent of Britons say they have used weight loss drugs, and 14 per cent would consider using them in the future. Nearly three-quarters of users (72 per cent) believe weight loss drugs are more effective than traditional dieting, and 67 per cent say they are less interested in junk food since starting treatment. However, 80 per cent worry that they will regain weight if they stop taking the medication.
Those currently using weight loss drugs spend an average of £91 per week on household groceries, compared with £102 before starting treatment, with 64 per cent saying they eat fewer snacks, and over half (53 per cent) reduce fast food consumption. It was also found that many increase their intake of vegetables (38 per cent), vitamins (23 per cent) and fish or seafood (21 per cent). Many also report drinking less alcohol (39 per cent) and fewer fizzy drinks (33 per cent). Overall, the pattern indicates that users are scaling back on high-calorie convenience items while increasing consumption of healthier options.
The impact continues after treatment ends, though at a more moderate level. Former users spend an average of £100 per week on groceries, compared with £107 before using weight loss drugs, representing a seven per cent decline. They spend £40 per month on takeaways, down from £49 previously. These figures suggest that the behavioural changes associated with weight loss drug use may persist beyond active treatment, influencing both grocery and food service expenditure over time.
Ag Hoffmann, YouGov’s Lead Healthcare Director, commented: “The rise of GLPs is having a huge impact on the grocery and takeaway market. Whilst the number of users is relatively low at the moment, this is only going to increase in the future, creating both opportunities and threats to the wider market from QSRs to grocers, we also expect to see impact across other sectors like leisure and retail. YouGov will continue to monitor these trends.”
