A year-long study has revealed that while GLP-1 receptor agonists generally lead to reductions in body weight, cholesterol, and body fat, the impact can vary depending on an individual’s eating behaviors. The study also noted a modest betterment in blood sugar levels among participants.

Researchers observed fluctuations in eating behaviors throughout the study. Initially, after three months, participants showed a decrease in external and emotional eating, coupled with an increase in reserved eating. However, by the end of the year, reserved and emotional eating patterns had reverted to their original levels.

According to Takehiro Kato from the University of Gifu, “A possible description is that emotional food is more influenced by psychological factors that may not be addressed directly by therapy with GLP-1 receptor agonists. People with pronounced tendencies for emotional food may need additional behavioral or psychological support.”

The study also found no correlation between emotional or reserved eating behaviors at the start of treatment and the overall benefits achieved by participants after a year.conversely, a reduction in external eating persisted throughout the year. Participants who initially exhibited high levels of external eating experienced the most significant improvements in weight loss and blood sugar control.