Weight-Loss Drugs Drive Lifestyle Shifts
Acosta Group released new proprietary research showing that the rise of GLP-1 medications is influencing far more than weight loss. The findings, shared ahead of the National Association of Chain Drug Stores Annual Meeting in Palm Beach, indicate that these medications are accelerating broader changes in food choices, personal care habits and dining behavior.
“Consumers using a GLP-1 for weight loss are experiencing additional positive emotional and behavioral impacts,” said Kathy Risch, SVP of Thought Leadership and Shopper Insights. She noted that shifts range from improved relationships with food to evolving purchasing preferences. According to the company, these ripple effects are strongest among Gen Z and Millennials.
Mark Rahiya, Group President of Omnichannel Sales and Services, said brands should treat these signals as early indicators of where mainstream demand is heading. He encouraged retailers to refine product concepts now, before wellness-driven expectations become standard.
Healthier Grocery Baskets at Home
Among GLP-1 users, 55% report buying more fresh produce, 32% more yogurt, 31% more fresh chicken, and roughly 30% more protein shakes, powders and bars. At the same time, 58% say they are purchasing fewer sweets, 44% fewer salty snacks and 41% fewer sugary drinks.
High-protein, high-fiber, hydration and gut-health products rank among the most sought-after categories. Nearly 41% of users say they are pleased with the healthier changes they have made, and half report improved eating habits across their households. That figure climbs to 79% among Millennials.
Personal Care Gains Momentum
The study highlights a strong emotional component tied to weight loss. About 52% of GLP-1 consumers say they feel more positive about their appearance, 43% feel motivated to take better care of themselves and 29% report increased confidence in social settings.
These shifts are translating into demand for benefit-driven beauty and personal care products. Younger consumers show particular interest in facial skincare for dryness and elasticity, body care focused on firming and hydration, and hair products targeting thinning and texture. Megan Rand, SVP of Client Development, noted that even Gen X shoppers are demonstrating meaningful interest, suggesting growth potential across multiple demographics.
Dining Patterns Evolve
Dining behavior is also changing. While 34% of GLP-1 users say they are eating out less, nearly half of Gen Z and Millennial users report dining out more often. When they do, 48% say they are ordering more carefully at familiar restaurants, and 42% are sharing main entrées more frequently.
Betty Kaufman, Director of Strategy at The Culinary Edge, described the trend as an acceleration of existing preferences rather than a new phenomenon. Restaurants are responding with higher-protein menu options, smaller portions and partnerships emphasizing clinical nutrition.
Digital Research and Messaging
Seventy percent of GLP-1 users conduct product or health research to support their journeys. Among Gen Z and Millennials, 57% rely on social media, 41% consult AI-driven apps or websites and 38% use retailer digital platforms, alongside in-store resources.
John Carroll, President of Connected Commerce, said brands must align omnichannel messaging with how consumers seek information. However, the study found that “GLP-1 Friendly” labeling can divide shoppers, raising concerns about taste or nutritional quality. Careful positioning will be critical as adoption grows.
The survey was conducted Feb. 13–25, 2026, among 2,117 U.S. adults, including 213 current GLP-1 users, drawn from Acosta Group’s 40,000-member shopper community.
