GNC has announced findings from a nutritional analysis of GLP-1 medication users in order to break down their needs and the common nutritional deficiencies linked to decreasing food intake and changing dietary habits.

“We set out last year to develop a product tailored to the unique needs of GLP-1 users,” said Brittany Johnson, PHD, RDN, senior manager of scientific affairs and principal investigator. “However, we quickly realized there simply wasn’t enough evidence to inform a formula based on our scientific standards. That’s why our team decided to start at the foundation and understand exactly what nutritional inadequacies exist in this population.”

The findings are intended to help shape clinical guidance, supplement formulation, and education efforts to support the long-term success and safety of GLP-1 therapy, based on the population data rather than assumptions or speculation.

The study, “Investigating Nutrient Intake During Use of Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist: A Cross-Sectional Study,” was accepted for peer-reviewed publication in Frontiers, and involved 69 GLP-1 users over a three-day period, who completed surveys and a detailed food log. The data was compared to the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) using statistical analysis and demonstrated that participants didn’t meet vital nutrient intake through their diets, and were significantly below recommended protein consumption.

Overall, participants didn’t meet USDA MyPlate servings for fruits, vegetables, grains, or dairy, and demonstrated overconsumption of calories from fat and saturated fat. While total caloric intake from protein was sufficient, the intake per body weight was below recommended levels. There were significant shortages in consumption of fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, choline, and vitamins A, C, D, and E.

“Science is the foundation for everything we do at GNC. Recognizing the lack of clinical nutritional research among GLP-1 users, we set out to examine their real-world dietary intake and habits to help understand the true nutritional needs,” said Rachel Jones, MS, RDN, EVP, chief merchandising and science officer. “The results of our study provide critical evidence to guide the next generation of support for the growing population of GLP-1 users — whether through education, clinical nutrition advice or dietary supplements.”

In 2024, GNC launched a GLP-1 support program, with a dedicated selection of products designed to help GLP-1 receptor agonist users manage common side effects and treatment-related challenges.