Americans are getting fed up. Literally. Oh, we still like to eat. But diners are choosing to eat smaller portions. And restaurants are getting worried. Sure, food prices are rising and incomes are dropping. But some restaurants are blaming the drop in income on appetite-suppressing GLP-1 medications like Ozempic. “About 5% of the population takes a GLP-1,” Jessica Dunker, president of the Iowa Restaurant Association told KGAN. “And when you look at knocking the appetites out of 5% of the population, that’s bound to have an impact on restaurants and bars across the state.”

Bob Walker, owner of Walker Homestead Farm and Winery of Iowa City, notes that customers aren’t as hungry as they used to be. “They don’t have the desire to eat as much,” he said. For a bread basket state like Iowa, this news could be deflating.

Following the austerity years of the World War II, America was giddy with consumerism, stuffing itself with new homes, cars and food—lots of food. Boomers force-fed their children and guests, encouraging them to have “seconds” and be dutiful members of the “clean plate club”. Having big meals was a sign of prosperity and kindness. They would say, “You’re practically skin and bones. Go on, have another piece of pie!” Those who showed particular enthusiasm were praised as “good eaters.” All-you-can-eat restaurants like Golden Corral and Bonanza flourished. Fast food restaurants like McDonald’s poured on the calories with large fries and super-sized soft drinks. Nationwide obesity rates hit 40 percent.

These days, people are becoming more health conscious. But dieting is no fun. GLP-1 drugs work by mimicking a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar. They slow digestion and reduce appetite. At last, it seemed, there was a chemical substitute for self-control. However, as they say, there is no free lunch. GLP-1 side effects can include nausea, loss of muscle mass, fatigue and “Ozempic face”, loose, older-looking skin.

And for the near future, restaurants will have to tighten their belts while they adjust to the Ozempic reality. Portions will become smaller and more nutritious. Customers will eat less high-fat foods, spend less time eating and drink less alcohol. Ozempic also combats diabetes, improves blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure, making us not only thinner but healthier.

Futurists are predicting the Ozempic effect will be a cultural shift, affecting not only eating habits but fashion as designers make clothes for slimmer bodies. The Ozempic generation will be healthier, better looking and will live longer. And, like former smokers who feel the need to reform their smoker friends, Ozempic zealots will torment the chubby unconverted. Candy bars will become littler or disappear altogether. Theater popcorn will only be available in the small size. Steak and porkchops will be used sparingly as flavoring. Favorite restaurants will close. Skinny, Ozempic people will be resented and reviled, mocked in the streets and pelted with jelly donuts. But it’s not too late. Just say no to Ozempic.