Fighting the GLP-1 Culture: Protecting Healthy, Non-Obese Teenage Girls
By Michelle Nehren
From 2020 to 2023, the use of GLP-1 weight-loss medications among young females became much more common. According to a Michigan Medicine study analyzing data across 92% of U.S. pharmacies, there was a “588% increase in GLP-1 use among girls ages 12–17 and a 659% increase among women ages 18–25.” This dramatic rise indicates a shift away from GLP-1 as solely a medical treatment. Rather, it reveals this as a cultural shift. Medications such as GLP-1 were originally used to treat diabetes and obesity, but are now used to manage appearance. Teen girls are exposed to this message every day through social media, peers, and even from trusted adults. For teenage girls already navigating intense pressure around appearance, this trend has serious implications for body image, mental health, and confidence during a critical stage of development. For this reason, mothers of teenage daughters should avoid using GLP-1 drugs themselves, should not allow their healthy teens to use them, and should instead focus on building healthy food relationships and self-confidence through evidence-based approaches, such as registered dietitians and therapists.
To understand why this matters, it’s important to know what GLP-1 drugs were made to do, and what they were not. The first GLP-1 medication was developed in 2005 to treat Type 2 diabetes. Later in 2014, the FDA approved GLP-1 for obesity management, but only for people who met strict medical criteria. As Harvard Health explains, these drugs work by “slowing digestion and reducing appetite, which can help people with obesity or diabetes better regulate blood sugar and weight.” But this effect can become problematic when applied to healthy, growing teens. Nutrition experts warn that using GLP-1 drugs without a real medical need can interfere with normal hunger cues and nutritional intake. One healthcare analysis notes that these medications can “override the body’s natural appetite regulation system rather than teaching sustainable eating behaviors.” Yet culturally, GLP-1 drugs are constantly heralded as harmless or even smart ways to deal with body dissatisfaction. When parents, especially mothers, adopt this narrative (often unintentionally), they are modeling to their daughters that discomfort with one’s own body should be medicated rather than understood. In this way, GLP-1 drugs act like a band-aid on a deeper wound, covering insecurity rather than healing it.
This normalization is reinforced by social and psychological pressures, particularly through social media. The American Psychological Association reports that “exposure to idealized body images on social media is associated with body dissatisfaction, particularly among adolescent girls.” Harvard researchers also note that teen girls are more likely than boys to experience negative mental health effects from social media, including anxiety and low self-esteem. Add in the layer of their mothers chasing an ideal body type through GLP-1 drugs and plastic surgery, and teen girls are at a greater risk of believing something is wrong with their genetics and are made to want to “fix” themselves too. Mothers have to set a better example of body positivity! Research from the National Institutes of Health adds that “negative body image is strongly associated with disordered eating behaviors, unhealthy exercise patterns, and appearance-based self-worth.” Adolescence is also a critical period of physical and hormonal growth. Suppressing appetite during this stage raises legitimate concerns about adequate nutrition, growth, and long-term metabolic health. Although there is little research on the long-term effects of GLP-1 use on growing bodies, UCI Health pediatricians do emphasize that “Because the drugs cause reduced food intake, future growth and development could be affected, leading to bone fractures or osteoporosis.” When weight loss becomes the focus instead of nourishment and growth, girls learn to distrust their bodies at a time when they should be learning how to care for them.
Because these pressures harm both mental and physical health, solutions should focus on growth and the person as a whole, guided by professionals. Registered dietitians are an excellent resource in helping teens learn how to fuel their bodies without fear or shame. Regular therapy, such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), can help teens identify the root of body insecurity, reframe their thinking, and build resilience. The Mental Health Foundation emphasizes that “positive body image in childhood and adolescence is associated with better self-esteem, healthier behaviors, and improved mental well-being later in life.” Families can also cultivate healthier habits by using neutral language about bodies, prioritizing shared meals, encouraging movement for fun rather than punishment, and setting intentional boundaries around social media. Research consistently shows that lifestyle-based changes improve overall well-being and body positivity over time, without the physical or psychological risks attached to unnecessary GLP-1 medications. Sarah, a 17-year-old girl who struggled with an eating disorder, tells of her experience with lifestyle-based changes. She shares, “I used to not feel good enough. I used to scroll through my phone and look at women who were anorexic and convince myself that I wasn’t skinny enough. Now I write positive messages to myself on the mirror. Those remind me I’ve come so far; I don’t want to go back. It was hard to get to this spot. There are always setbacks. Trust your care team, know your family wants the best for you. It’s a long process. It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but now-I’m alive! I’m happy! You will get there.” When families prioritize professional guidance, skill development, and confidence-building over quick fixes, not only do they protect their daughters’ health today, but more importantly, they set them up for a lifetime of self-respect. We need to push back on the growing trend toward GLP-1.
Ultimately, this is not about fear or blame. It’s about leadership. Mothers have far more influence than they realize-your outer voice will be your daughters’ inner voice-make it empowering, positive, and kind. By rejecting GLP-1 drugs as a quick fix for body image, in themselves and for their daughters, mothers show that health is not about control, it’s about care. GLP-1 medications do have a place when used correctly, but they are not appropriate solutions for healthy teens navigating normal developmental challenges. Social media and cultural pressure can be strong, but they do not have to be the decision-makers. As moms educate themselves on realistic body health, initiate open and compassionate conversations with their daughters, and work with dietitians and therapists, they can confidently stand up to messages that tie self-worth to being thin. By shifting away from cultural narratives, we help raise girls who value themselves for their strength, resilience, and self-trust, not their size.
Top 10 Ideal VRBOs for Family Reunions in the U.S.
Planning a family reunion sounds magical… until you actually start planning it! Never mind juggling everyone’s schedules, food allergies, and personalities. You need to find a location everyone loves, a house big enough for everyone to sleep comfortably (even that one uncle who needs his own room, mountain views, and silence). All for a price that fits your budget. Hotels mean scattered, small rooms with zero togetherness and sky-high costs.
Enter: Large VRBO homes-the unsung heroes of family reunions!
These incredible properties offer great locations, amenities, comfort, space, entertainment, and affordability, all while keeping everyone under one roof! How does that sound for epic memories?! After digging deep into the best destinations, amenities, and pricing across the U.S., I’ve curated the ultimate Top 10 list of VRBOs designed for unforgettable family reunions.
If your group is 15 to 30 people, this list is about to become your new best friend. Let’s go!
1. Smoky Mountains, Tennessee – Ultimate Mountain Mega Cabin
If cozy meets colossal, it’s happening in the Smokies.
Why It’s Perfect: These massive luxury cabins in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are perfect for family reunions. They include theater rooms, arcades, hot tubs, fire pits, game rooms, pools, and mountain views worthy of their own Instagram account. They are also within minutes of hiking trails, national parks, shopping, moonshine tastings, and Dollywood.
Sleeps: 18–30
Best For: Multi-generational families, adventure lovers, entertainment-packed trips
Seasonal Sweet Spot: Best deals January–March & late August–September
Why Families Love It: Endless entertainment + incredible affordability per person
2. Breckenridge, Colorado – Luxury Ski Chalet in a Walkable Mountain Town
Where Hallmark meets an Outdoor Adventure catalog
Why It’s Perfect: This quintessential mountain chalet won’t disappoint! Winter means ski-in access, roaring fireplaces, hot tubs under falling snow, and sweeping mountain views. Summer brings hiking, festivals, alpine slides, Main Street strolls, and still, postcard scenery. These features make this spacious chalet ideal for reunions any time of year.
Sleeps: 16–24
Best For: Ski trips, summer hiking escapes, active families
Seasonal Sweet Spot: Best deals April–May & September
Why Families Love It: Four-season destination with incredible scenery
3. Outer Banks, North Carolina – Oceanfront Beach House
Imagine waking up to waves, drinking your morning smoothie on a massive deck, and walking straight onto the beach…barefoot of course.
Why It’s Perfect: The Outer Banks is beachfront bliss. This large oceanfront home has direct beach access, a private pool, hot tubs, elevator access, spacious decks, and giant dining spaces for everyone. And let’s not forget those uninterrupted ocean views! The only things you need to plan for here are slow mornings, sunset dinners, and sandcastle-building tournaments.
Sleeps: 18–30
Best For: Beach lovers, laid-back family gatherings
Seasonal Sweet Spot: Best deals April–May & September
Why Families Love It: Uncrowded beaches + excellent value
4. Destin, Florida – Emerald Coast Perfection
Where luxury meets laid-back beach vibes.
Why It’s Perfect: Destin is famous for white sand and clear water. And this home is all about its luxury beach living with a private pool, multiple living areas, beach access, and a gourmet kitchen. The only thing you’ll be required to do is take the golf cart out for daily sunset cruises. The sand is sugar-white, the water is unreal, and the memories are next level.
Sleeps: 16–30
Best For: Luxury beach reunions, relaxation-focused trips
Seasonal Sweet Spot: Best deals April–early May & September
Why Families Love It: High-end experience without high-end stress
5. San Diego, California – Coastal Cool Retreat
Perfect weather, beaches, tacos, surf, world-class attractions-San Diego casually checks all the boxes.
Why It’s Perfect: San Diego offers beautiful beaches, great weather, walkable shopping, top attractions, and an excellent food scene. Add in this coastal, dual-home layout with rooftop deck, ocean views, and space for everyone, and you’ve got reunion gold.
Sleeps: 16–24
Best For: Beach + city lovers, active families
Seasonal Sweet Spot: Best deals January–March & late September
Why Families Love It: Ideal mix of ocean, entertainment & culture
6. Palm Springs, California – Private Desert Resort Estate
Want to feel like celebrities for a week? Welcome to Palm Springs.
Why It’s Perfect: This resort-style desert oasis features a massive pool, hot tub, fire pit, pickleball courts, an outdoor kitchen, cabanas, and jaw-dropping mountain views. It’s a private resort…minus the cost.
Sleeps: 16–30
Best For: Warm-weather luxury, pool-centered reunions
Seasonal Sweet Spot: May–October
Why Families Love It: Private resort experience + exceptional value
7. Orlando, Florida – Theme Park Central
If your family reunion includes kids, teens, or adults who love roller coasters, Orlando wins-hands down!
Why It’s Perfect: This villa boasts a theater room, themed bedrooms, a private pool, game rooms, and resort amenities. With only a 10-minute drive to Disney parks, parents can relax while the kids lose their minds-in the best possible way.
Sleeps: 16–30
Best For: Kid-heavy families, theme park lovers
Seasonal Sweet Spot: Best deals January–February & September
Why Families Love It: Incredible value + endless entertainment
8. Lake Tahoe, California – Panoramic Lakeview Lodge
Where every direction is a postcard.
Why It’s Perfect: This stunning lodge offers panoramic lake views, a hot tub, fireplace, and massive decks. Whether your family is into snow, skiing, and sledding or sunshine, boating, and hiking-Lake Tahoe is the ideal spot for four-season adventures and majestic views.
Sleeps: 16–24
Best For: Luxury retreats, outdoor adventure families
Seasonal Sweet Spot: Best deals April–May & October
Why Families Love It: Four-season destination + unmatched beauty
9. Branson, Missouri – Family Entertainment Capital
America’s hidden family reunion gem, where you can have big-time fun without big-time prices
Why It’s Perfect: Branson is an underrated spot for family reunions. This massive lodge won’t bore anyone with its theater, arcade, hot tub, resort indoor pools, and lake access-all at an affordable price. With it so close to top shows and attractions, you’ve got nonstop fun for all ages.
Sleeps: 20–30
Best For: Budget-conscious mega reunions, entertainment lovers
Seasonal Sweet Spot: Best deals January–March & September
Why Families Love It: Maximum fun at minimum cost
10. Scottsdale, Arizona – Desert Luxury Retreat
Sunshine, style, and serious relaxation
Why It’s Perfect: Scottsdale is a warm-weather paradise and so is this home with its resort-style backyard featuring a pool, fire pit, pickleball court, outdoor kitchen, and mountain views. This is a family reunion done right.
Sleeps: 16–30
Best For: Adult + teen groups, warm-weather escapes
Seasonal Sweet Spot: Best deals May–September
Why Families Love It: Resort-style living with incredible value
Family reunions aren’t about cramped spaces, disconnection, or breaking the bank. They’re about late-night talks, games, shared meals, laughter, memories, and connection. The right house makes all the difference in bringing people together.
These Top 10 VRBO homes deliver space, comfort, great experiences, and value, making them the perfect backdrop for moments that will last a lifetime. Now go plan that reunion!
Michelle Creates 