For many people using weight-loss injections, Christmas brings added challenges due to bigger meals and indulgent foods. By paying attention to portion sizes, slowing down during meals and choosing more protein-rich dishes, individuals can still enjoy festive celebrations without disrupting their treatment.
To guide users, Superintendent Pharmacist Palvinder Deol has assembled an example 780-calorie Christmas dinner demonstrating how to enjoy holiday dishes while reducing the likelihood of nausea, bloating or other side effects.
KENT, UK. December 1st 2025 – With the number of GLP-1 weight-loss injection users in the UK now estimated at 1.5 million, and prescriptions rising by more than 900 percent since 2020, a UK pharmacist is offering Christmas-specific advice to support safer seasonal eating.
These GLP-1 receptor agonists—sold under names like Mounjaro, Wegovy and Ozempic—work by suppressing appetite and slowing the stomach’s emptying process. While effective, this can make heavy Christmas meals, rich desserts and alcohol more difficult to tolerate.
To help users manage the holiday period more comfortably, Superintendent Pharmacist Palvinder Deol (GPhC) of Happy Pharmacy has issued clear festive guidance. Deol has also crafted a suggested low-calorie, high-protein Christmas meal plan intended to help patients enjoy the celebrations without feeling restricted or unwell.
“Christmas can be a difficult time for anyone trying to manage their weight, but for people taking weight-loss medications it requires an even more mindful approach,” says Deol. “These treatments make you feel full faster, so eating very rich foods or eating too quickly can cause discomfort. Smaller portions, slower eating and higher-protein choices make the day much easier and more enjoyable.”
Tips for Managing Christmas While Taking Weight-Loss Medications
1. Eat slowly and stop at the first sign of fullness
These medications make people feel satisfied sooner than usual; continuing beyond this point increases the chance of nausea or bloating.
2. Make protein the priority
Protein supports fullness and stabilises blood sugar. Turkey, prawns, salmon, eggs and Greek yogurt are all excellent festive choices.
3. Limit very high-fat foods
Creamy sauces, fried items and rich gravies may be harder to digest.
4. Keep portions small and space food throughout the day
A smaller plate and slower pace help reduce discomfort while still allowing favourite dishes to be enjoyed.
5. Be cautious with alcohol
Alcohol can stimulate appetite and worsen dehydration. Sip slowly, alternate with water and avoid drinking on an empty stomach.
6. Stay hydrated
Water supports digestion and helps reduce the risk of nausea.
7. Plan lighter meals before and after Christmas dinner
This helps prevent overeating and supports steady energy levels.
Optional: Low-Calorie, High-Protein Christmas Dinner Plan
Designed to help people enjoy Christmas while minimising the risk of nausea, this suggested meal plan totals around 780 calories and 64g of protein, offering a balanced and satisfying alternative to very heavy meals.
Starter
Prawn cocktail with light Marie Rose sauce
Starter subtotal: 120 calories | 14g protein
Main
Roast turkey breast (100g, skin removed) – 150 calories | 30g protein
Air-fried roast potatoes (120g) – 160 calories | 3g protein
Roasted carrots & parsnips (1 tsp olive oil) – 90 calories | 1g protein
Steamed Brussels sprouts (100g) – 40 calories | 3g protein
Low-calorie stuffing ball – 55 calories | 4g protein
Light gravy (100ml) – 25 calories | 1g protein
Main subtotal: 520 calories | 42g protein
Dessert
Mini dark-chocolate & raspberry trifle (made with 0% Greek yogurt)
140 calories | 8g protein
Dessert subtotal: 140 calories | 8g protein
Total meal: ≈780 calories | ≈64g protein
About Superintendent Pharmacist Palvinder DeolPalvinder Deol is a GPhC-registered Superintendent Pharmacist at Happy Pharmacy. He oversees all clinical governance, prescribing safety and the medical accuracy of the pharmacy’s treatments and content. Palvinder has more than 20 years of experience in community and digital pharmacy practice.
