Incorporating Soy Protein into a High-Protein Diet for GLP-1 Users
For Immediate Release
Tuesday, March 11, 2025The growing challenge of obesity and weight management has led to a surge in GLP-1 medication use, with one in eight (12%) Americans now utilizing GLP-1's for weight loss or Type II Diabetes.
Consequently, there is a heightened focus on making informed dietary choices, including prioritizing a high-protein diet to support metabolic health.
To better understand these individuals’ dietary needs and habits, a 2024 national survey, sponsored by the United Soybean Board, explored protein consumption patterns among U.S. consumers, including GLP-1 users.
Let's explore more of the study's findings and answer common questions that you, your patients, or your clients might have regarding the nutritional requirements associated with GLP-1 diets and supporting metabolic health.
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What Are the Potential Side Effects of GLP-1 Medications?
Fifty-six percent of people taking GLP-1s experience side effects. One in five (22%) GLP-1 users report struggling with nausea and loss of appetite, which makes it difficult to consume a variety of foods or maintain sufficient protein intake. Nineteen percent of users report doing nothing to address the nausea.
How Are GLP-1 Medications Shaping Consumer Diets?
Many are adjusting their diets to balance protein intake with the physical limitations of nausea and appetite suppression. Fifty-one percent of GLP-1 users report prioritizing eating protein over any other food group and over one-third (36%) have integrated more plant-based protein into their diet since taking these medications.Additionally, consumers have adapted their eating habits to manage their appetites, with 40% opting for more frequent snacks instead of larger meals, and 43% reporting eating fewer meals per day.
What Are Top Dietary Priorities for GLP-1 Users?
GLP-1 users have distinct dietary priorities that reflect their focus on managing metabolic health. Protein is a top priority for consumers using GLP-1 medications, with eight in ten (84%) focusing on protein consumption to maintain their muscle mass. Eighty-two percent understand the importance of prioritizing a high-protein diet since their appetites are suppressed.
Additionally, six in ten (61%) GLP-1 users are interested in regulating blood sugar levels, and 60% are looking to boost metabolism.
Are GLP-1 Users Aware of the Importance of a High-Protein Diet?
Although knowledge and awareness around the importance of protein is growing, many consumers still struggle to add more protein to their diets. GLP-1 users are more likely to say they are aware of their protein needs (93% vs. 84% of non-users), and four in ten (40%) report wanting to learn how to add more protein to their diets. However, only half (54%) say they can easily meet their protein needs.What Barriers Are Preventing Consumers from Meeting their Protein Needs?
Despite recognizing the importance of protein, GLP-1 users face challenges in meeting their intake goals.
As one survey participant noted, “finding ways to include protein-based food into my meals” is difficult.
In fact, 44% note convenience and 41% note affordability as key barriers preventing them from increasing their protein intake, making the need for affordable and convenient protein options clear. Nausea and loss of appetite make it difficult to maintain a sufficient protein intake as well.
As one survey participant noted, “finding ways to include protein-based food into my meals” is difficult.
In fact, 44% note convenience and 41% note affordability as key barriers preventing them from increasing their protein intake, making the need for affordable and convenient protein options clear. Nausea and loss of appetite make it difficult to maintain a sufficient protein intake as well.
What Are the Benefits of Adding Soy Protein to a GLP-1 Diet?
A significant amount (82%) of GLP-1 users recognize soy-based foods as a good source of protein, which are crucial for those looking to consume a high-protein diet. Soy is recognized as a complete protein source, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that our bodies need to function.
The convenience, affordability, and versatility of soy protein make it a popular choice among GLP-1 users. In fact, 62% of survey respondents report consuming or purchasing soy protein weekly.
The convenience, affordability, and versatility of soy protein make it a popular choice among GLP-1 users. In fact, 62% of survey respondents report consuming or purchasing soy protein weekly.
What Are High-Protein Recipes for GLP-1 Users?
Finding the right balance with diet while taking GLP-1s can be a challenge. These tasty and easy recipes prioritize protein and metabolic health, and aid in overall well-being.
Check out these nutritious recipes, perfect to sustain your clients and those on GLP-1 medications:
• Edamame Kale Salad
• Creamy Mushroom Soy Soup
• Baked Edamame Pesto Pasta
• Tofu Noodle Bowl
• Tofu “Egg” Cups
Equip yourself and your clients with these resources:
• Is Soy a Complete Protein?
• Soy Proteins and Soy Foods
• Soy Protein Infographic
For more science-backed information and resources, visit the health & nutrition page on Soy Connection.
Check out these nutritious recipes, perfect to sustain your clients and those on GLP-1 medications:
• Edamame Kale Salad
• Creamy Mushroom Soy Soup
• Baked Edamame Pesto Pasta
• Tofu Noodle Bowl
• Tofu “Egg” Cups
Improving Patient Care with the Right Resources
Access to accurate educational materials and current research allows healthcare professionals to better address patient concerns and facilitate informed dietary decisions, especially given the rise of GLP-1 medications.Equip yourself and your clients with these resources:
• Soy Proteins and Soy Foods
• Soy Protein Infographic
For more science-backed information and resources, visit the health & nutrition page on Soy Connection.
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