Ohio State University Study: Weight-Loss Medications Changing How People Dine Out

The growing popularity of GLP-1 weight-loss medications is changing the way many people eat at restaurants, according to a new study from The Ohio State University Extension and the Ohio Restaurant & Hospitality Alliance.

The study surveyed 923 people across the United States, including consumers in the Midwest, to better understand how medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy and similar GLP-1 drugs are affecting dining habits.

Researchers found that 23% of American households now have at least one person using a GLP-1 medication.

Among current and former users:

66% said they spend less money at restaurants after starting the medication.
46% said they no longer order alcohol with meals.
Desserts and sugary drinks are also being skipped more often.
Nearly half said they are more likely to order an appetizer or side dish to share instead of a larger meal.
60% said they’re more likely to choose restaurants that offer menu options supporting their health goals.
38% said they would dine out more often if restaurants offered more choices tailored to their dietary needs.
The study also surveyed Ohio restaurant operators.

Among those surveyed:

41% said they’ve noticed lower food and alcohol sales they believe are linked, at least in part, to increased GLP-1 use.
About 40% reported more customers asking for smaller portions or requesting to split entrees.
Only 9% currently identify menu items that may appeal to GLP-1 users.
Despite eating less, researchers found that restaurants remain an important social destination for people taking the medications.

“The findings suggest that restaurants may be able to maintain guest traffic and revenue by offering greater flexibility through portion sizes, shareable dishes and clearly identified menu options,” said Dr. Brian Roe, the study’s lead researcher at The Ohio State University.

The research was conducted from February through March 2026 through a partnership between Ohio State University Extension and the Ohio Restaurant & Hospitality Alliance’s Heroes of Hospitality program.