A groundbreaking survey has revealed that GLP-1 drugs, such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, are not only transforming people's health but also their daily routines and spending habits. With an estimated three million Canadian adults currently taking these medications, the impact is undeniable.
But here's where it gets controversial: the survey suggests that many more Canadians would like to try GLP-1 drugs, but the high cost is a significant barrier.
According to Leger Healthcare, which conducted the poll, over half of the participants taking these medications reported a decreased appetite and reduced food cravings. This has led to a noticeable shift in their spending patterns, with approximately 30% of GLP-1 users dining out less frequently and opting for healthier food choices.
The survey, released on Tuesday, also highlighted that about a third of GLP-1 users are now buying more fresh produce and protein-rich foods. Weight loss is the primary reason for taking these medications, followed closely by managing diabetes.
And this is the part most people miss: insurance coverage and lower-cost generic options play a crucial role in people's decisions to take GLP-1 drugs. More than half of those interested in the medication cited these factors as influential.
"GLP-1s have gone mainstream," says Melicent Lavers-Sailly, vice-president of research at Leger Healthcare. "The impact is evident not just in prescriptions but in people's everyday lives and spending habits."
In addition to dining out less, about 35% of GLP-1 users reported ordering smaller portions, choosing healthier options, and even leaving food unfinished. Furthermore, 36% said they had reduced their alcohol consumption.
The survey also found that GLP-1 use extends beyond dietary changes, with increased spending on clothing, personal care, beauty services, and fitness.
Interestingly, an estimated two million Canadian adults who are not currently taking GLP-1 drugs expressed a desire to do so.
However, the picture is not entirely rosy. While lack of insurance coverage and cost are barriers for many, another significant concern is the risk of side effects. Some users experience gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. More severe complications, though rare, include gall bladder inflammation and pancreatitis.
Despite these potential drawbacks, 58% of those taking or considering GLP-1 drugs cited weight loss as their primary motivation, while 42% named diabetes management. Additionally, 22% were interested in GLP-1s for heart health, with men more likely than women to give this reason.
The survey also revealed that a quarter of GLP-1 users are paying for these medications out of pocket, which can cost hundreds of dollars monthly. For 28% of users, the medication is fully covered by private or public insurance plans, while almost half have partial coverage.
Conducted online by Leger Healthcare from February 6th to 9th, 2026, the survey included 1,536 Canadians aged 18 and over. Extrapolating the results based on 2025 adult population statistics, Leger Healthcare estimates that approximately three million Canadian adults are currently taking GLP-1 drugs, with over two million more expressing interest.
The Canadian Research Insights Council, the professional body for the polling industry, notes that online surveys cannot be assigned a margin of error due to the non-random sampling of the population. However, Leger Healthcare states that a probability sample of comparable size would yield a margin of error of ±2.5% (19 times out of 20).
So, what does this mean for the body positivity movement? And how will the rise of GLP-1 drugs impact the restaurant industry? These are questions that deserve further exploration and discussion. What are your thoughts on the potential societal implications of these powerful weight-loss drugs? Feel free to share your opinions and engage in a thoughtful debate in the comments below!
