South Carolina Retreat Helps GLP-1 Users Keep Weight Off

Nearly 11% of American adults now take GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or Wegovy for weight loss, but many struggle with what happens next. Hilton Head Health Wellness Resort & Spa has created a solution that's helping people succeed long after the prescription ends.

The resort's GLP-1 Support program brings together guests who are considering, using, or stopping these medications. Instead of focusing solely on the scale, the week-long retreat teaches practical skills that work with or without the drugs.

Guests learn strength training to combat muscle loss, a common side effect of GLP-1 medications. They work with registered dietitians to discover which whole foods they can tolerate when appetite drops, focusing on adequate protein, fluids, and fiber.

The program includes individual metabolic assessments, biomarker testing, and chef-led cooking demonstrations. Small group sessions help participants create action plans they can actually maintain at home.

Bob Wright, a health educator at the resort, explains why this approach matters. When people stop taking GLP-1 medications, the hormonal appetite suppression disappears and hunger returns. Without new habits in place, the weight often comes back.

Anne Poirier, director of Behavioral Health, helps guests shift their mindset from appearance to what their bodies can do. This "body neutrality" approach reduces the anxiety around the scale and builds confidence in daily choices.

Why This Inspires

The retreat addresses a gap in weight loss care that affects millions. While GLP-1 medications offer powerful results, research shows many people regain weight after stopping them. Some never lose weight on the drugs at all.

Hilton Head Health doesn't push guests toward or away from medications. Instead, the staff equips them with skills that enhance success either way. Guests discover new activities they love, from aqua boxing to guided meditation, expanding their wellness toolkit beyond any single solution.

Elizabeth Huggins, a registered dietitian at the resort, emphasizes quality nutrition and building a healthy relationship with food. These fundamentals support people whether they stay on medications indefinitely or transition off them.

The program recognizes that sustainable wellness comes from behavior changes, not just biological interventions. By teaching guests to focus on daily actions they control rather than outcomes they can't predict, the retreat builds lasting confidence and capability that extends far beyond a week in South Carolina.