GNC (Pittsburgh, PA) revealed new research on the first real-world nutritional analysis of GLP-1 users. The study highlights critical evidence of everyday eating habits among GLP-1 users and the unintended nutritional deficiencies from decreasing food intake and changing dietary habits.

“We set out last year to develop a product tailored to the unique needs of GLP-1 users. However, we quickly realized there simply wasn’t enough evidence to inform a formula based on our scientific standards. That’s why our team decided to start at the foundation and understand exactly what nutritional inadequacies exist in this population,” said Brittany Johnson, PhD, RDN, senior manager, scientific affairs at GNC.

The study was published in Frontiers and involved 69 GLP-1 users over a three-day period, completing surveys and a detailed food log. According to researchers, participants did not meet standards for fruits, vegetables, grains or dairy, and overconsumed calories from fat and saturated fat.

The total caloric intake from protein was sufficient, but intake per body weight was insufficient. There were also significant shortages in the consumption of fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, choline and vitamins A, C, D and E, researchers said.

“Science is the foundation for everything we do at GNC. Recognizing the lack of clinical nutritional research among GLP-1 users, we set out to examine their real-world dietary intake and habits to help understand the true nutritional needs,” said Rachel Jones, MS, RDN, executive vice president chief merchandising and science officer at GNC. “The results of our study provide critical evidence to guide the next generation of support for the growing population of GLP-1 users—whether through education, clinical nutrition advice or dietary supplements.”

For more information, visit www.gnc.com.