Dietitians, please share advice on how individuals taking a semaglutide should navigate the food-focused holiday of Thanksgiving. Are there any foods they should include or avoid?

For those taking semaglutide, approaching Thanksgiving with smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day rather than one large meal can be beneficial, as semaglutide tends to decrease hunger. Since it also slows gastric emptying, eating more slowly can help reduce any gastric discomfort that might arise from eating too much too fast. It's a holiday, and you should enjoy it—don't restrict yourself from your favorite foods! However, opting for smaller portions can help prevent overindulgence. Maintaining lean muscle mass is essential while taking semaglutide, so be sure to include protein in your meals. Be mindful that high-fat foods can further slow gastric emptying, potentially worsening any GI side effects. If you're using semaglutide to manage blood sugar, it's also important to be mindful of portions of foods high in carbohydrates, such as sweet potato casserole, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, etc. Finally, avoid or limit alcohol, as it can impact blood sugar regulation and may interact with semaglutide. Sterling Weaver, MS, RDN, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and owner of Sterling Dietetics https://www.sterlingdietetics.com/

Food is more than just fuel. Whatever your motivation behind taking semaglutide, remind yourself that the holiday--and the festive food that comes with it--is an opportunity to connect with loved ones, culture, tradition, and celebration. Don't let anxiousness around food overtake all of that. As you make your plate, aim for balance. Have some carbs, protein, fat, and color. And, yes. Leave some room for fun too. This balanced approach will take food off a pedestal and will help keep the gathering centered on what matters most to you.

To navigate Thanksgiving while taking semaglutide, it’s very helpful to eat slowly and mindfully, allowing yourself to recognize feelings of fullness. Try opting for smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day, which can help manage hunger and prevent overeating at the main holiday meal. When it comes to the Thanksgiving feast, focus on incorporating good sources of protein, such as the white meat of the turkey, and include plenty of non-starchy vegetables like green beans or Brussels sprouts to balance your plate. Enjoy small portions of other holiday favorites like stuffing or mashed potatoes, but be mindful of overindulging, as semaglutide slows gastric emptying and can make large meals uncomfortable. The key is to savor the foods you love without overdoing it.