How to Design a GLP-1 Friendly Menu

As GLP-1 medications become more widely used, restaurants now have a unique opportunity to meet the needs of a growing customer base. These medications, originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity, are now influencing how people eat and what they order at restaurants.

If you’re looking to make your restaurant’s menu more inclusive for these types of diners, here’s how to design a GLP-1-friendly menu that supports your customers while keeping your offerings delicious and satisfying.

What Is GLP-1 and Why Does It Matter?

GLP-1 stands for “glucagon-like peptide-1,” a hormone that regulates blood sugar, digestion and appetite.

When taken as a medication, GLP-1 slows digestion and reduces hunger and appetite, so users feel full faster and eat less. But it’s not just about portion control—GLP-1 users often experience food aversions and digestive sensitivities, which make certain ingredients and menu items less appealing.

How GLP-1 Medications Influence Dining Choices

According to Nation’s Restaurant News, GLP-1 users are less inclined to eat red meat, spicy food, fatty and fried items, salty snacks, desserts and alcoholic beverages. Conversely, GLP-1 diners are more likely to seek smaller portions and nutrient-dense meals.

Additionally, diners often seek normalcy—they still want to enjoy their favorite foods, just in a modified form.

Portion Sizes That Work for GLP-1 Friendly Meals

When designing your GLP-1-friendly menu for your restaurant, the easiest change you can make is to shrink portion sizes, as GLP-1 users don’t want large meals. An excellent example of this is Panera’s half-size offerings of staple menu items like salads, soups and sandwiches. Adding half-sized or smaller versions of your best-selling menu items will entice GLP-1 diners who don’t want to be overwhelmed by huge portions.

Additionally, you can add tapas-style small plates of mains and sides for your GLP-1 guests to order a la carte from. This lets your customers stay in control of what they order and create a customized, balanced meal that’s the right size for them.

What Ingredients are Ideal for GLP-1-Friendly Dishes?

As you build out your GLP-1-friendly menu, you’ll need to consider the kinds of ingredients you’ll have on offer. GLP-1 users are limited to specific types of food that are high in protein and fiber, and low in fat and sugar. Below is a breakdown of essential ingredients ideal for GLP-1 dishes.

Lean Proteins

• Animal-based proteins like chicken, turkey, fish (salmon, tuna, cod), eggs, lean beef (sirloin, tenderloin) and pork loin


• Vegetarian and vegan proteins like tofu, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese and edamame

Fiber-Rich Vegetables

• Leafy greens like kale, spinach and chard


• Broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, carrots, brussels sprouts

Healthy Fats & Low-Fat Options

• Olive oil and avocado oil


• Low-fat dairy


• Zero-sugar alternatives

Complex Carbohydrates

Complex carbs are a type of carbohydrate that provides sustained energy to the body. For GLP-1 menu items, some popular complex carb options include:

• Quinoa


• Brown rice


• Farro


• Barley


• Beans


• Lentils


• Peas

GLP-1 Friendly Drink Options

Hydration is a major concern for GLP-1 users. In that same Nation’s Restaurant News article, they reported on how value-added beverages are gaining traction.

• Infused waters (cucumber, citrus, berry)


• Herbal teas (hot or iced)


• Mocktails and “fruit-forward slushies”

These options support hydration while offering flavor and variety.

Ingredients to Avoid for GLP-1 Users

While GLP-1 users have a number of food options, there are some crucial ingredients they should avoid. As detailed by the Cleveland Clinic, GLP-1 users should limit:

• Spicy foods—hot sauce, hot peppers


• Refined carbs—white bread, white rice


• High-fat foods—pizza, fries, onion rings


• Sugary items—desserts, sweetened drinks

As you’re crafting your GLP-1 menu, be sure to avoid these ingredients or significantly reduce them.

Include Customizations and Easy Menu Swaps

Empower your guests to make smart choices with various customization options and menu swaps. This is already a pretty standard feature on most restaurant menus, but for GLP-1 customers, it should be especially highlighted. 

Protein Swaps 

Have various protein options at the ready for customers to choose from. Some popular ones include grilled chicken breast, blackened salmon filets, turkey burger patties and plant-based patties.

Healthy Sides

Incorporate fruit and veggie-based side options for GLP-1 customers like zucchini fries, seasoned veggies, fruit bowls and side salads.

You can also add high fiber side offerings like a brown rice medley, farro salad with cucumber and feta and balsamic-glazed brussels sprouts.

Sauces and Dressings

Be sure to include low-fat sauces and dressings that have an olive oil, avocado oil or vinegar base. For creamy options, use plain Greek yogurt or blended cottage cheese. Serve these on the side so your customers can use as much or as little as they want.

Label Your Menu for Easy Ordering

Labelling GLP-1-friendly dishes on your menu lets you highlight high-protein, fiber-rich and low-glycemic options so your guests can easily order their food. You can use special icons that connote what’s what, like a leaf, heart or star.

Alternatively, you can section off GLP-1-specific dishes on your menu and label it as such. Use descriptors like “GLP-1 Friendly,” “Light & Nourishing,” “Balanced Bites” or “Wellness Picks” to guide choices without stigma.