The GLP-1 drugs are revolutionizing the way people eat and spend their money, according to a recent survey. The survey reveals that approximately three million Canadian adults are currently taking GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic or Mounjaro, and many more are interested in doing so. However, cost is a significant barrier for many. The poll conducted by Leger Healthcare found that over half of the people taking these medications reported a decreased appetite, and 40% said they have fewer food cravings. This is reshaping their spending habits, with around 30% going to restaurants or ordering takeout less frequently. Interestingly, about a third of them are buying more fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as protein-rich foods. The survey also found that weight loss is the primary reason people are taking or considering taking GLP-1 medications, followed by diabetes. However, the rise of GLP-1s has sparked a debate about the body positivity movement. While some argue that these drugs are a promising solution for weight loss, others believe they may trigger the next restaurant crisis. The survey also highlights the impact of GLP-1s on people's shopping behavior, with increased spending on clothes, personal care products, beauty services, and fitness. It's estimated that around two million Canadian adults are not taking the medications but would like to. The survey found that while lack of insurance coverage and cost were barriers for about half of respondents interested in taking GLP-1s, another 36% said they would take the medication if the risk of side-effects was lower. Some people experience gastrointestinal side-effects, but most side-effects are minor, doctors say. The survey also revealed that 58% of people taking or considering taking GLP-1 drugs cited weight loss as their main driver, while 42% said diabetes was their primary reason. Twenty-two percent said they wanted to take a GLP-1 for their heart health, with men more likely to cite this reason than women. The survey found that a quarter of the respondents taking GLP-1 medications were paying for the drugs out of pocket, which can cost hundreds of dollars a month. The polling industry's professional body, the Canadian Research Insights Council, notes that online surveys cannot be assigned a margin of error because they do not randomly sample the population. However, a probability sample of comparable size would yield a margin of error of ±2.5% (19 times out of 20), according to Leger Healthcare.
