- Understanding Sexual Orientation
- Take our Do You Know Proven Psychology Facts?
- Find counselling near me
Key points
- The uptick in GLP-1 use among gay and bisexual men can increase pressures about idealized body types.
- GLP-1 use can create belonging among those who use it, but it can also exclude non-users in harmful ways.
- Therapy can be a good option for navigating the social and emotional dynamics of queer body image standards.
Few medications spark as much public attention as GLP-1s. Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, these medications are reshaping conversations about obesity, health, and body image standards. An estimated 30 million Americans are expected to be on a GLP-1 by 2030, while a recent Canadian survey suggests that approximately 3 million Canadians are currently taking a GLP-1 like Ozempic or Mounjaro. The Canadian findings may also indicate a broader lifestyle shift among consumers – people taking GLP-1s are spending less on “going out” and are investing more in groceries and personal leisure.
The ripple effects of this medicalized weight loss phenomenon are becoming difficult to ignore. With celebrities such as Meghan Trainor, Rebel Wilson, and Sharon Osbourne publicly sharing their GLP-1 experiences, these drugs have become part of our current zeitgeist regarding health and beauty standards. The rise of GLP-1s goes beyond their medical purposes and reflects a broader cultural pursuit of extreme thinness and idealized body types that can be harmful
In particular, the GLP-1 social trends have intensified the existing toxic body image standards within queer communities. This shift is leading to GLP-1s being prescribed by queer men’s medical clinics for “off-label” purposes, giving men a miracle solution to obtain their physique and near-zero percent body fat. We will explore this, but first, it’s important to know a bit more about GLP-1s, their development, and intended uses
What are GLP-1s?
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists mimic the body’s naturally occurring GLP-1 hormone, which slows down digestion, increases insulin release, and lowers blood sugar levels. Many GLP-1 medications are currently approved for treatment and management of Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity. New drugs are being researched, and clinical trials also offer potential promise for new uses in treatments of heart disease, fatty liver, and even addictions
To “Jab” or Not to “Jab”: Pressures for Gay and Bisexual Men
What is desirable and sought after changes with evolving cultural norms and ideals. As early as the 1920s, both thinness and athleticism were viewed as ideal men’s traits. Today, men’s health magazines convey the message that low body fat, ripped abs, and a defined chest are the defining features of what it means to be healthy and desirable. Experts highlight how these standards have always been especially prominent among gay and bisexual men, noting the long-standing psychological pressures of body shaming, toxic gym cultures, and the pressure to fit in. GLP-1s that offer a solution for quick weight loss amplify underlying social pressures and contribute to worsening mental health impacts among gay and bisexual men.
To explore where gay and bisexual men are with these issues, we reviewed Reddit discussions about Ozempic and other GLPs on a popular subreddit (r/askgaybros). Many users posted about their insecurities about their body and shared stories of being rejected by other gay men for being “too fat” or “too chubby”. Some mention wanting to remove their “residual fat” or “baby fat” to be more attractive. Within gay and bi men’s spaces, GLP-1s are sometimes seen as a way to avert rejection, the idea being that using these meds brings them closer to the coveted masculine physique and thus enhances their chances of sexual/romantic success.
Other users expressed frustration that the rapid weight-loss trend impacted their friendships and relationships; when people using Ozempic lose weight, they may distance themselves from previous subcultural tribes, such as “bears” or “chubs”
Some responses to these posts about body-related experiences and vulnerabilities appear to be supportive, with men offering one another advice on gym or diet strategies. However, they’re not all positive, and some responses reflect the harmful practice of “fat-shaming”. Some gay men also believe that using GLP-1s is “cheating”; however, various Reddit users were vocal about their disagreements with those comments
- Understanding Sexual Orientation
- Take our Do You Know Proven Psychology Facts?
- Find counselling near me
Managing the Moving Target of the Ideal Body
People’s views and opinions about weight, body, image, and health are often loud, and it can be easy to become consumed by others’ voices. Selling quick weight-loss solutions or miracle pills can create a sense of urgency. Choosing to use a GLP-1 is a personal healthcare decision that should be made in consultation with your physician if you are considering it
To fight against conflicting toxic body standards, finding people and spaces that foster a sense of safety and belonging is important for well-being. Therapy can be a good option for navigating the complex social dynamics and the psychological impacts of queer body image standards
To find a therapist,visit the Psychology Today Therapy Directory
