Eating Behaviors May Predict GLP-1 therapy Success in Type 2 Diabetes
NEW YORK – Individuals with type 2 diabetes who tend to eat in response to emotional cues may experience less weight loss when treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic, according to preliminary findings from a recent multicenter observational study. Researchers suggest that assessing eating behaviors could personalize treatment approaches and improve outcomes for patients using these increasingly popular medications.
The study, published September 17, 2025, in Frontiers, examined the relationship between eating behavior patterns and the effectiveness of GLP-1 receptor agonists in individuals with type 2 diabetes. With the rising prevalence of type 2 diabetes – affecting hundreds of millions worldwide – and the growing use of GLP-1 RAs for both diabetes management and weight loss, identifying factors that influence treatment response is crucial. These findings highlight the potential for a more nuanced approach to care, moving beyond a one-size-fits-all model to consider the psychological factors impacting a patient’s relationship with food.
Researchers found a potential association between “external eating” – consuming food driven by external cues like stress or emotions – and diminished treatment response. “While our study suggests a potential association between external eating behavior and treatment response to GLP-1 receptor agonists, these findings remain preliminary,” stated Dr.Yabe in a news release. ”Further evidence is necessary before they can be implemented in clinical practice.”
The prospective observational study, led by Koide Y, Kato T, Hayashi M, and colleagues, analyzed data from multiple centers. Should future large-scale or randomized controlled trials validate the relationship, incorporating simple behavioral assessments could become a valuable component in optimizing treatment strategies for type 2 diabetes.
References:
- Koide Y, Kato T, Hayashi M, et al. Association between eating behavior patterns and the therapeutic efficacy of GLP-1 receptor agonists in individuals with type 2 diabetes: a multicenter prospective observational study. Frontiers. Published online september 17, 2025. doi:10.3389/fcdhc.2025.1638681
- People on Ozempic who eat to regulate emotions less likely to lose weight. frontiers. news release. September 17, 2025. Accessed September 17, 2025. https://www.frontiersin.org/news/2025/09/17/people-ozempic-eat-emotions-less-likely-lose-weight-frontiers-clinical-diabetes-healthcare
