GLP-1 companion supplements and post-medication nutrition tap metabolic health demand

The growing adoption of GLP-1 medications is driving a shift in the food, beverage, and supplement industries to support consumers on these therapies and when they transition off them. Industry experts highlight how these drugs boost demand for holistic metabolic wellness and how companies can respond with solutions to enhance GLP-1s. 

Nutrition Insight discusses opportunities for innovations with Gnosis by Lesaffre, Kerry, Saanroo, and ADM. 

Silvia Pisoni, global operational marketing director at Gnosis by Lesaffre, says that GLP-1 receptor agonists (RAs) represent not only the epitome of a market disruptor but also a paradigm shift in how obesity and overweight are treated. 

“Because of the success of this class of drugs for weight loss — which isn’t overhyped nor is it speculative — it will become entrenched for years as the go-to product for appetite and weight control,” she predicts.

“GLP-1 RAs are also known to help lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol profile, leading the US FDA to approve some of these medications as a treatment for cardiovascular disease.” Moreover, she notes that the drugs are also being explored as a treatment for fatty liver and neurodegenerative diseases and to reduce chronic inflammation.

Research estimates that 12% of adults in the country use or have used these therapies. Pisoni adds that in addition to shedding weight, the underlying cause of reduced GLP-1 production is a strong factor driving the growth of use.

Gnosis by Lesaffre’s Pisoni suggests positioning supplements as companion products to optimize GLP-1 therapy.Specifically, she points out how gut permeability, or leaky gut, can impact GLP-1 levels. “A weakened gut barrier function and elevated lipopolysaccharide can lower short-chain fatty acid production and suppress natural GLP-1 levels, which challenges weight loss and the body’s ability to balance blood sugar.”

Vivien Sheehan, VP of Business Development at Kerry, says there is a vast market for products supporting broader health goals, pointing to Kerry’s research that found only 6% of GLP-1 users are planning to use these medications for life.

“Ultimately, GLP-1s are a catalyst for better-for-you, functional foods; the food and beverage industry winners will be those who provide high-quality, clinical-adjacent nutrition without sacrificing the pleasure and ritual of eating.”

Holistic health demands

As the conversation around weight loss is moving toward holistic metabolic wellness, the experts note these medications are driving the development of a broader ecosystem of functional foods and ingredients designed around appetite regulation and metabolic health.

“What began as a discussion about weight-loss medications is expanding into a much larger conversation about appetite awareness, nutrient density, body composition, and smarter support for metabolic wellness,” says Maggie McNamara, VP of Global Marketing at Saanroo.

“That shift will likely speed up innovation in supplements, beverages, powders, protein-rich foods, and other convenient formats. The long-term goal isn’t just to produce products that follow a trend. It’s to create better nutritional solutions for consumers whose needs are changing in real time. I believe this will influence formulation strategies for years to come.”

Alicia Humpert, global marketing director of Microbiome at ADM, adds that the shift opens the door for ingredients that support satiety signaling, glycemic control, and overall weight loss and day-to-day energy.

According to Kerry’s research, only 6% of GLP-1 users plan to use the medications for life, says Sheehan.“We anticipate greater innovation in protein systems, specialty fibers, and biotics to help complement some of the benefits consumers associate with anti-obesity medications. Among GLP-1 users specifically, satisfaction and tolerability matter even more. The top formats these consumers enjoy most since starting the medication are yogurts, protein bars, and fresh fruits and vegetables, reinforcing the idea that familiar food formats help drive consistency.”

She highlights the potential of biotics in this space, which can withstand challenging formulation environments, don’t require refrigeration, and maintain efficacy over shelf life, unlike conventional probiotics. 

“That flexibility enables innovation in convenient and appealing formats, such as drinkable yogurts, gummies, and powdered supplements like fast melts.”

Kerry’s Sheehan adds that consumers are increasingly focused on positive nutrition, seeking to reduce sodium and sugar intake while enhancing gut and immune health.

She notes that the company’s research indicates a strong appetite for overall well-being beyond weight loss: “Ninety percent of GLP-1 users are incorporating vitamins, supplements, and probiotics into their lifestyles.”

“Consumers of GLP-1s also prioritize stress relief, mental clarity, and cognitive focus, alongside clean energy support.”

Innovating for weight loss consumers

Sheehan highlights the importance of understanding that there are various types of GLP-1 consumers.

“Kerry’s research identified five distinct GLP-1 consumer segments: from the high-energy, family-focused Dynamic Dads to the wellness-savvy Trailblazing Trendsetters, Future-Focused Improvers prioritizing long-term health, and Balanced Maintainers and Steady Stickers focusing on practical, long-term health strategies.”

“Understanding these distinct segments will allow us to work with our customers to tailor their products to meet the specific needs of these consumers, ensuring we deliver solutions that are both effective and trustworthy.”

Saanroo’s McNamara cautions the GLP-1 category needs rigor and clarity, not hype.At the same time, McNamara underscores that the valuable innovation occurs when solid science, responsible positioning, and practical application remain closely linked.

“This is not a category that thrives on hype. Instead, it relies on rigor, clarity, and products that genuinely help people sustain better nutritional support as their habits and health goals change,” she cautions.

Supporting adherence with nutrition

Gnosis by Lesaffre’s Pisoni says the most sensible and attractive opportunity is positioning supplements as companion products to optimize the GLP-1 therapy, protecting good health and well-being.

She also points to recent findings that people using GLP-1s are at risk for nutrient inadequacies, with 99% falling below the recommended intake for vitamin K.

“This matters because vitamin K — especially K2 — is required to activate extrahepatic proteins that protect our arteries and strengthen our bones, and emerging evidence also points to promising benefits for body composition.”

Another common side effect is the loss of muscle, says Pisoni. “Authors of one study recommend that whey protein for GLP-1 users who engage in resistance exercise will preserve lean body mass during use of the drug. Additional muscle-supporting supplements for dramatic weight loss, as experienced with this class of drugs, are creatine monohydrate and beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate.”

Moreover, she notes that lower food intake among GLP-1 users often results in gastrointestinal distress for many. “When developing an ingredient that works well with GLP-1 medications, keep in mind this heightened gut sensitivity, and this can be a challenge.”

“During human clinical trials, stomach upset is not an uncommon side effect reported to the researchers — and can be exacerbated when taken in tandem with GLP-1s. If this is the case, marketing materials should clearly disclose this potential occurrence,” she recommends.

Sheehan highlights Kerry’s gut health solutions — BC30 probiotic and Plenibiotic postbiotic — that help address the personalized digestive benefits consumers are looking for.

“BC30 has a resilient coat that remains viable through manufacturing processes and safely reaches the intestinal tract to deliver optimal effectiveness for digestive health and protein absorption. Plenibiotic is a natural, rice-derived postbiotic with dual benefits through the gut-skin axis.”

Humpert says ADM’s biotics and fiber ingredients can support metabolic health in post-GLP-1 users who may regain up to two-thirds of the weight lost within a year.Moreover, she highlights lactase enzyme technology, which allows manufacturers to create lactose-reduced or lactose-free products. “By breaking down lactose into more easily digestible sugars, lactase allows manufacturers to preserve familiar formats, such as Greek-style yogurt, cultured beverages, and high-protein ready-to-drink beverages while improving digestive comfort and supporting consistent protein intake.”

Biotics and fiber for metabolic health

For consumers transitioning off GLP-1 medications, metabolic health support is “top-of-mind,” says ADM’s Humpert, as research finds up to two-thirds of the weight lost may be regained within a year. She highlights the potential of biotics and prebiotic fibers to support these consumer groups.

“Our BPL1 (Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis CECT8145) probiotic and postbiotic target factors relevant to metabolic health. Emerging and in vitro evidence also suggests BPL1 postbiotic — in combination with diet and exercise — may help support visceral fat reduction, a healthy waist circumference, and metabolic health pathways.”

Humpert adds that consumers have a growing understanding of fiber’s role in metabolic health, sustained satiety, and appetite regulation. She says this is fueling the desire to incorporate more fiber in everyday diets.

“For example, at doses of 4–6 g per meal, Fibersol may help reduce post-meal blood sugar levels within the normal range in healthy individuals — an important factor for metabolic health and weight management.”

As food noise returns, she notes that post-GLP-1 users may look for new ways to support satiety, such as increasing fiber intake. “When consumed at 10 g with a meal, Fibersol may increase appetite-regulating hormone GLP-1 as part of a normal physiological response in healthy individuals.”