Some food companies, including Nestle and Conagra, are responding to the popularity of obesity and diabetes drugs by branding some products “GLP-1 Friendly.” The labels target a growing number of people taking medicines such as Zepbound, Wegovy and Mounjaro, who may be looking for ready-made meals that reduce side effects from the drugs. But what, exactly, does it mean to eat a GLP-1–friendly diet?
Protein, produce and H2O
Nutritionist Allison Wiseman emphasizes balance: prioritize protein to help preserve muscle during rapid weight loss; eat fiber from fruits and vegetables because GLP-1 drugs slow digestion, which can cause constipation or, in rare cases, intestinal blockages; and drink plenty of water because the medications can reduce thirst. Many people starting GLP-1s do not change their diets, Wiseman says, because they lose weight regardless — but skipping meals or later eating richer foods can trigger nausea, vomiting or constipation.
Changing eating habits matters because data show about half of people quit the drugs within a year and many then rapidly regain weight. Wiseman says patients rarely receive detailed nutritional guidance from prescribers; successful, lasting results require planning and work to change eating patterns.
Make every bite count
Suzy Badaracco, a nutritionist and chef, says it’s “about making every bite count.” Very few people get counseling on how to change their relationship with food while on these medications. As GLP-1 drugs become more common and available in pill form, food companies are marketing ready-made meals as solutions for this expanding group.
A new label for a new market
In a D.C. supermarket, Wiseman examined Healthy Choice’s Cajun shrimp and chicken dinner, labeled “GLP-1 Friendly” with claims of high protein and 3 grams of fiber. Flipping the box, she found the ingredient list began with white rice and included preservatives and stabilizers; cooked shrimp appeared further down. A serving with just 3 grams of fiber and 220 calories, she noted, falls short of her recommendation of about 25 grams of fiber a day and may not be filling enough — she would advise adding a salad, extra vegetables or beans.
Conagra added a “GLP-1 Friendly” check mark to 26 Healthy Choice meals and plans more; Nestle launched Vital Pursuit, a brand targeting GLP-1 users with smaller portions and later expanded to higher-protein options. But Badaracco points out there is no regulated or medical standard for “GLP-1 Friendly,” so such labels are marketing rather than a defined nutrition certification.
Label-free and very good for you
Because marketing can mislead, Wiseman recommends reading ingredients carefully. Items labeled “Keto” or similar may not actually provide meaningful protein or other nutrients. The most GLP-1–friendly foods are unprocessed: produce, water and whole foods without labels. Wiseman recognizes perishables cost more and require prep time, so she suggests buying seasonal or sale items and preparing ready-to-grab portions of nuts, sliced fruit and vegetables to fit busy schedules.
Planning is key: think about daily life and where foods that take a little more prep fit in. While people often want a quick fix, a healthier lifestyle sometimes requires time and effort to build sustainable habits that complement GLP-1 medications.