A significant health alert has been issued in the UK, advising around 2.5 million people to avoid certain foods during the holiday season, particularly pork products. This advisory comes just weeks before Christmas on December 25, 2023, as many individuals begin their festive meal preparations. The alert highlights potential side effects such as bloating, reflux, nausea, and other gastrointestinal issues linked to specific food items, particularly for those using weight loss medications.
The warning is particularly relevant for those taking GLP-1 receptor agonists like Mounjaro and Wegovy. These medications, which are typically prescribed for weight management and diabetes, can cause digestive discomfort when combined with rich or processed foods. With the holiday season often characterized by indulgence, the pressure to enjoy traditional meals can create anxiety for those affected.
Understanding the Risks of Certain Foods
Dr Crystal Wyllie, an NHS GP and practitioner at online medical service ZAVA, explained that users of GLP-1 medications are encouraged to avoid foods that may exacerbate side effects. High-fat, sugary, or heavily processed items can lead to symptoms such as nausea and bloating, primarily because these medications slow stomach emptying.
Dr Wyllie stated, “Experiencing side effects is completely normal and very common on GLP-1 medications. They slow digestion and alter hunger signals, so mild digestive discomfort is expected for many people.” This means that traditional festive foods can pose a risk for users of these medications, particularly as they often rely on rich ingredients.
Foods to Avoid This Christmas
As the holiday approaches, Dr Wyllie has outlined specific festive foods that GLP-1 users should consider limiting or avoiding entirely. For example, pigs in blankets, a traditional Christmas staple, are high in fat and salt. The combination of sausage and bacon can lead to increased nausea and reflux due to the slowed digestion associated with the medications. An alternative would be to consume lean turkey sausages or smaller portions combined with vegetables.
Another common holiday dish is roast potatoes, which are often cooked in goose fat. While some chefs may advocate for this preparation, Dr Wyllie warns that the richness can prolong the feeling of fullness and discomfort. Instead, she suggests using olive oil or mixing roasted and steamed potatoes to create a more digestible option.
Soft cheeses, such as brie and camembert, can also trigger digestive issues for GLP-1 users due to their high fat content. Dr Wyllie recommends alternatives like reduced-fat cheeses or hard cheeses in moderation, or even opting for fruit.
Additionally, festive desserts like brandy butter and yule logs should be approached with caution. Brandy butter is primarily made of fat and sugar, which can overwhelm the stomach and trigger discomfort. A lighter custard or yogurt-based topping would be a better choice. For chocolate lovers, Dr Wyllie advises opting for small portions of dark chocolate instead of dense, creamy desserts.
The health alert serves as a timely reminder for those affected to carefully consider their food choices during the holiday season. With many grappling with the pressures of festive indulgences, Dr Wyllie’s guidance aims to promote a more comfortable dining experience for GLP-1 users, ensuring that the focus remains on enjoyment rather than discomfort.
