At Hilton Head Health Wellness Resort & Spa in South Carolina, an increasing number of guests are attending specialized programs focused on GLP-1 medications, a class of drugs gaining popularity for weight management and diabetes treatment. The resort, which has operated for nearly five decades with an initial focus on weight loss, has incorporated a more holistic wellness approach while addressing the rising use of these medications.
GLP-1 receptor agonists such as Wegovy and Zepbound are approved for weight management, while others like Ozempic and Mounjaro primarily treat diabetes but have shown secondary weight loss effects. In the United States, nearly 75% of adults over 19 are overweight, with over 40% classified as obese, underscoring the demand for new strategies to address weight issues.
Hilton Head Health runs a seasonal GLP-1 Support program that begins with an introductory class explaining how these medications work, their benefits and potential drawbacks, and how to integrate their use into a sustainable health regimen. This program also includes body composition and metabolic assessments, biomarker testing related to inflammation and glucose regulation, nutrition and mindset workshops, group coaching, strength training, and access to resort facilities and meals.
While resort staff do not provide medical advice and leave prescription decisions to healthcare professionals, they emphasize education on long-term success strategies for users. Bob Wright, a health educator at the facility, noted that teaching participants how to sustainably incorporate these medications is critical given the appetite-suppressing effects GLP-1s exert at hormonal and biological levels.
Experts at the retreat highlight several considerations when using GLP-1 drugs. Strength training is encouraged to counter potential muscle loss, a side effect noted by the Mayo Clinic. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, and constipation may also occur. Nutritionist Elizabeth Huggins advises users to focus on tolerable foods during periods of reduced appetite and prioritize whole, plant-based foods rich in protein, fiber, and adequate hydration.
A central concern addressed during the program is the likelihood of weight regain after discontinuing GLP-1 treatment. Studies show many individuals experience a return of appetite and weight once the medication is stopped. Anne Poirier, the director of behavioral health at Hilton Head Health, emphasizes the importance of shifting focus away from weight alone toward maintaining behaviors that promote overall well-being and body neutrality—a concept encouraging appreciation for the body’s functions rather than appearance.
Through individualized coaching and action planning, the retreat aims to equip participants with sustainable habits that extend beyond medication use. The program's goal is to support long-term health improvements by integrating physical fitness, nutrition, and behavioral strategies alongside medical treatments.
As GLP-1 medications continue to influence the landscape of weight management, facilities like Hilton Head Health are adapting to provide comprehensive education and support to help users build enduring wellness habits.