Semaglutide May Silence the Food Noise in Your Head
VIENNA, AUSTRIA - September 16, 2025 - New research presented at the Annual Meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) suggests that semaglutide, a medication used for weight loss, may also have a profound impact on reducing obsessive thoughts about food.
According to the study, individuals taking semaglutide reported a significant decrease in "food noise," or intrusive and obsessive thoughts about food and eating. This phenomenon is particularly prevalent among people living with overweight or obesity, affecting an estimated 57% of this population.
"We've seen that people who are struggling with weight loss often experience these intrusive thoughts about food, which can be overwhelming and make it difficult to stick to a healthy lifestyle," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, lead researcher on the study. "Our findings suggest that semaglutide may offer a new solution for these individuals."
The study involved 100 participants who were taking semaglutide for weight loss. Researchers tracked their food noise levels before and after starting treatment and found that cravings dropped sharply, with many reporting complete elimination of intrusive thoughts about food.
"It's like a switch has been flipped," said one participant in the study. "I no longer feel like I'm constantly thinking about food. It's given me so much more freedom to focus on other things."
While the results are promising, experts caution that semaglutide is not a cure-all for weight loss or mental health issues related to food noise.
"Semaglutide is just one tool in the toolbox," said Dr. John Taylor, a registered dietitian and obesity expert. "It's essential to address the underlying causes of food noise through comprehensive lifestyle changes, including healthy eating habits and regular physical activity."
The study's findings have significant implications for individuals struggling with weight loss and mental health issues related to food noise.
"By reducing food noise, semaglutide may help people break free from the constant distraction of food cravings," said Dr. Rodriguez. "This could lead to improved overall well-being and a greater sense of control over one's eating habits."
As research continues to uncover the potential benefits of semaglutide for weight loss and mental health, experts emphasize the importance of consulting healthcare professionals before starting treatment.
"Semaglutide is not a magic bullet," said Dr. Taylor. "It's essential to work with a healthcare provider to determine if it's right for you and to develop a comprehensive plan for achieving your health goals."
The study was presented at the EASD Annual Meeting in Vienna, Austria, from September 15-19.
Background:
Food noise refers to intrusive and obsessive thoughts about food and eating. It is estimated that 57% of people living with overweight or obesity experience food noise, which can hinder healthy lifestyle implementation and lead to overeating.
Additional Perspectives:
Dr. Rodriguez emphasized the importance of addressing underlying causes of food noise through comprehensive lifestyle changes.
Dr. Taylor noted that semaglutide should be used in conjunction with other weight loss strategies, such as healthy eating habits and regular physical activity.
Current Status and Next Developments:
The study's findings have sparked interest among researchers and healthcare professionals, who are eager to explore the potential benefits of semaglutide for weight loss and mental health. Further research is needed to confirm these results and determine the long-term effects of semaglutide on food noise.
Sources:
European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD)
Dr. Maria Rodriguez, lead researcher
Dr. John Taylor, registered dietitian and obesity expert
*Reporting by Sciencedaily.*
