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Body image and interest in GLP-1 weight loss medications
Charlotte H Markey1, Kristin J August1, Dua Malik1
1Rutgers University, USA.
Body Image
|April 23, 2025
Summary
Interest in new weight loss drugs like glucagon-like peptide 1 agonists (GLP-1s) is linked to negative body image. Higher body appreciation may reduce interest in using GLP-1s for weight loss.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Endocrinology
- Public Health
Background:
- Glucagon-like peptide 1 agonists (GLP-1s) are emerging weight loss medications with significant potential.
- Existing research links body size to body image, suggesting GLP-1 users might anticipate improved body satisfaction.
- The relationship between body image and interest in using GLP-1s remains unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between body image and interest in using GLP-1 medications.
- To identify psychological and behavioral factors associated with GLP-1 interest.
- To explore the moderating role of body appreciation in GLP-1 interest.
Main Methods:
- Survey administered to 225 university students (Northeastern U.S.).
- Measures included awareness/interest in GLP-1s, body appreciation, body neutrality, self-objectification, weight bias, weight concerns, and disordered eating behaviors.
- Participants self-reported height, weight, and recent weight loss attempts; BMI was calculated.
Main Results:
- High interest in GLP-1s correlated with greater body shame, self-surveillance, weight concerns, anti-fat bias, disordered eating, and higher BMI.
- Lower body appreciation and body neutrality were associated with increased GLP-1 interest.
- BMI and recent weight loss attempts significantly predicted interest in GLP-1s and willingness to tolerate side effects.
Conclusions:
- Individuals with negative body image and weight concerns show greater interest in GLP-1s.
- Body appreciation may act as a protective factor, reducing interest in using GLP-1s for weight loss.
- Findings highlight the psychological context surrounding the use of novel weight loss pharmacotherapies.
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