How GLP-1 Users Are Planning to Splash Out on Fashion This Black Friday

As Black Friday approaches, many Americans taking GLP-1 medications face a unique challenge. They’re experiencing significant body changes and often need to update their wardrobes to fit their new shapes.

A recent survey from Sunlight.com reveals that GLP-1 users plan to spend around $350 on clothing this year, substantially more than the $150 that non-users plan to spend. The reason behind this surge? About 62% of those using GLP-1 say that most of their clothes no longer fit. In fact, nearly 20% anticipate spending $500 or more to refresh their wardrobes. Among participants who lost over 50 pounds, around 40% expect to make significant purchases to accommodate their new size.

Despite the holiday excitement, medical experts stress the importance of timing before overhauling your closet. Dr. Angela Tran, who specializes in obesity medicine, cautions that GLP-1 weight loss can be rapid and unpredictable. Many users experience notable changes within months as their bodies adjust to the medication. Some lose 15 to 25 pounds within three to four months. However, results vary based on dosage, initial weight, and commitment to a healthier lifestyle.

Those who combine GLP-1 medication with active lifestyle changes—such as better eating habits and regular exercise—often see more consistent results. This means they might outgrow clothes faster.

Dr. Tran highlights three main phases in a weight-loss journey:

• Active weight loss: The initial stage where weight drops quickly and motivation is high.
• Maintenance: Here, the goal shifts from losing weight to keeping it off, a phase that can be underestimated.
• Long-term habit building: Developing sustainable routines to stay healthy over time.

Dr. Tran finds that around 75% of her patients struggle with weight regain after stopping GLP-1 medications. She emphasizes that these drugs are tools—they can help, but long-term success depends on fundamental lifestyle changes.

Once users achieve their goal weight, the challenge becomes maintaining that new size. Stable weight often depends on previous habits. Those who exercised regularly before using GLP-1 may experience smoother transitions in their weight. Conversely, others might need to seek out additional support through nutrition counseling or exercise plans to maintain their new size comfortably.

So, what should GLP-1 users do with clothes that no longer fit? Dr. Tran advises against holding onto them out of fear of regaining weight. Instead, she encourages users to clear out their closets. Keeping clothes that don’t fit can negatively affect confidence. Tailoring high-quality items can be a reasonable exception, but generally, clearing out old clothes helps reinforce a positive self-image.

When it comes to shopping for new clothes, Dr. Tran recommends a phased approach:

During active weight loss: Buy a few well-fitting items, like workout gear or casual outfits, that reflect your current size.

As weight stabilizes: Invest in essential staples like jeans or jackets, particularly when great sales arise, such as Black Friday.

After reaching your goal: Focus on building a wardrobe that truly reflects who you are now.

With the current surge in spending among GLP-1 users, understanding the psychology behind shopping is also essential. The Sunlight.com survey revealed that 67% of GLP-1 users enjoy shopping more since starting the medication, and 76% want to see diverse body types represented in advertisements. This trend reflects a broader societal shift toward inclusivity.

Lastly, Dr. Tran suggests using Black Friday not only for clothing but also for health-related tools. This may include fitness equipment, wearables to track activity and sleep, or subscriptions to fitness apps. These investments support long-term health and transition users from viewing weight loss as a temporary goal to embracing a healthier lifestyle.

With all these insights in mind, GLP-1 users can enter Black Friday informed and ready to make strategic choices that reflect their evolving bodies and lifestyles.

This story was produced by Sunlight.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.

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