This GLP-1 retreat changed how I think about weight loss - USA Today

What the report says

USA Today reported on a GLP-1 support retreat at Hilton Head Health Wellness Resort & Spa in Hilton Head, South Carolina, as public interest in drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound and Mounjaro continues to grow. Reporter Eve Chen attended an introductory class at the resort, which says it aims to help guests understand considerations before, during and after use of GLP-1 medications, without advising them to start or stop treatment.

According to USA Today, the resort’s GLP-1 Support program is offered during selected weeks and includes body composition and metabolic assessments, biomarker testing, nutrition and strength workshops, group coaching, cooking demonstrations, meals, lodging and access to broader wellness activities. Hilton Head Health educator Bob Wright told the publication that the staff explains how the medications work, along with potential benefits and drawbacks, while leaving medical decisions to guests and their doctors.

The article highlighted several practical issues for users, including muscle loss risk, digestive side effects and the possibility of regained weight after stopping the drugs. Fitness manager Holly Toelke emphasized strength training, while dietitian Elizabeth Huggins discussed eating tolerated foods during difficult periods and focusing on protein, fluids, fiber and whole, plant-forward choices when possible. Behavioral health director Anne Poirier described helping participants shift attention from scale outcomes to sustainable behaviors and body neutrality.

The report matters because GLP-1 medications are increasingly used for weight loss, but experts commonly stress that they work best alongside long-term lifestyle planning and medical supervision. USA Today disclosed that Hilton Head Health provided the reporter access, while the newsroom retained editorial control.