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October is here, and with it comes all the fall fun vibes, including, of course, candy season. Whether it’s a handful of Halloween treats or those fun-sized chocolates that somehow disappear faster than you expect, sugar can feel unavoidable this time of year. But if you’re on a GLP-1 medication or supporting your GLP-1 naturally, sugar hits a little differently.
Let’s break down what’s really happening in your body, why those treats may feel trickier than they used to, and how to enjoy the season without nausea, energy crashes, or extra cravings.
How sugar hits different on GLP-1
GLP-1 medications slow down gastric emptying (how quickly food leaves your stomach) and help regulate blood sugar. That’s great for steady energy and appetite control, but when you add in a surge of simple sugar, the effect can feel magnified:
- Sugar lingers longer: Because your stomach empties more slowly, that candy bar sits around, which may make nausea more likely.
- Blood sugar spikes feel sharper: Even though GLP-1 helps regulate glucose, a big sugar hit may trigger dizziness, fatigue, or mood swings.
- For some, cravings may return: Sweet treats light up your brain’s reward system, but GLP-1s actually dial that response down, which many people describe as the quieting of “food noise” (less dopamine from sugar and fatty foods, and fewer cravings for junk food, alcohol, or sweets). In that way, GLP-1s help with cravings. Still, some people may find themselves craving more at times, since the dulled highs can make sweets feel less satisfying, leading them to keep reaching for another piece in search of the old rush.
At Shed, we steer our members away from the “all or nothing” mindset. Sugar isn’t totally off-limits, but it does require more strategy if you want to enjoy it without the spooky side effects.
Tricks for treats: Smart sugar strategies
Here are a few ways to keep Halloween fun without derailing your progress:
- Stabilize before sweets. Eat a balanced meal with protein, fiber, and healthy fats before you dip into the candy bowl. Think: roasted chicken and vegetables with a drizzle of olive oil. You’ll enjoy the treat without sending your blood sugar on a roller coaster.
- Pair with protein. Have a piece of candy alongside a protein-rich snack (ex., cottage cheese or a Greek yogurt). Protein slows down sugar absorption and balances your blood sugar response.
- Go small and savor. If you're feeling like enjoying candy, give yourself permission for a piece or two. A fun-size treat eaten slowly and mindfully is better than feeling deprived and then binging later.
- Pause and check in. If you notice yourself reaching for candy over and over because it doesn’t feel as satisfying as it used to, pause and swap the “chase” for a check-in. Ask: Am I actually hungry, or am I looking for that old reward hit? If it’s the reward you’re after, redirect with something that gives a genuine dopamine boost, such as a walk-and-talk with a friend to enjoy the neighbors’ Halloween decorations.
- Hydrate with intention. Dehydration makes sugar crashes worse. A supplement such as Clear Protein Hydration may be the perfect support—hydration plus protein and electrolytes—that keeps you balanced.
- Support your GLP-1 naturally. Shed’s GLP-1 Boost may help to enhance fullness and curb cravings, making it easier to keep sugar in check. Think of it as your daily shield against Halloween candy overload.
The sweet spot: Balance, not restriction
The goal isn’t to eliminate sugar; it’s to enjoy it in a way that feels good for your unique body and sustainable for your personal lifestyle. By keeping a healthy mindset, pairing treats with protein, staying hydrated, and using smart supplementation, you can enjoy Halloween without the side effects of sugar overload.
This October, let’s turn sugar into a treat—not a trick—on your body and health journey!
FAQs
Can you eat sugar while taking GLP-1 medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide?
Yes, you can still enjoy sugar while on GLP-1 medications, but moderation and timing matter. Because GLP-1s slow digestion and blunt your blood sugar response, eating too much sugar at once can make side effects like nausea worse. Pairing sweets with protein or fiber helps stabilize blood sugar and minimize those side effects.
What’s the best time to have candy while on a GLP-1?
Enjoy treats after a protein-rich snack or meal rather than on an empty stomach. The protein helps keep your energy levels steadier and prevents blood sugar from spiking so much.
Are artificial sweeteners better than sugar while on GLP-1s?
Not always. While artificial sweeteners don’t raise blood sugar the same way sugar does, sugar substitutes may cause stomach upset for some people. Natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit are better alternatives for those on a GLP-1.
How can I prevent sugar crashes on Halloween?
Balance is key. Stay hydrated, eat balanced meals, and pair your Halloween treats with protein. A mindful approach to timing, portioning, and pairing goes a long way.
What are some healthier alternatives to Halloween candy?
Try dark chocolate (the darker the better!), yogurt-covered fruit, or homemade protein bites sweetened with a little bit of honey. Any of these will feel like a treat, with the bonus of providing nutritional balance so you feel satisfied for longer.
How can I enjoy a healthy Halloween without feeling deprived?
Give yourself permission to enjoy your favorite treats—but do it with intention. Go for smaller portions and savor each bite. When you enjoy treats mindfully, a little sweetness goes a long way without derailing your progress.
References
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32077010/
