How To Enjoy Pancake Day If You Take GLP-1 Medications

Pancake Day is a time for flipping and topping, but if you’re taking GLP-1 medications, you might be wondering how to enjoy the day without overdoing it. In this article, we’ll explain how to make your pancakes healthier with tips for eating them while on GLP-1s. We’ll also share UK Meds' diabetes-friendly pancake recipe, complete with step-by-step instructions to help you create the perfect snack.

GLP-1 medications are highly effective treatments that are used to help people lose weight or manage type 2 diabetes. They come in a number of different forms, including popular weight loss medications Mounjaro and Wegovy, as well as a well-known diabetes medication called Ozempic. 

These medications work by regulating your appetite and hunger. They make you crave food less, helping you consume fewer calories and control your weight. They also help to control blood sugar levels. Because of how they work, navigating holidays like Pancake Day which involve food can be a struggle. 

Key Takeaways

Here are the 5 biggest takeaways from this article about enjoying pancake day whilst using GLP-1 medications:

• Weight loss medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy, as well as the type 2 diabetes medication Ozempic, help to regulate hunger, slow digestion and manage blood sugar levels.

• Swapping traditional ingredients for wholemeal or oat flour, using a light cooking spray instead of butter and choosing fresh fruit or yoghurt over sugary syrups can make pancakes healthier.

• Since GLP-1s slow digestion, smaller meals are key to avoiding discomfort.

• Opting for protein and healthy fats like eggs, Greek yoghurt, or cheese instead of high-sugar toppings can make pancakes more filling and prevent blood sugar spikes.

• Using a non-stick pan, preheating properly and using cooking spray instead of oil ensures healthy, evenly cooked pancakes.

How Can I Make My Pancakes Healthier?

Making your pancakes healthier doesn’t mean missing out on Pancake Day. Making a few simple swaps can help you enjoy them while keeping your diet balanced. 

Some simple things to do include:

• Instead of having pancakes as a dessert, try eating them as a main meal or snack

• Opt for thin pancakes as they contain fewer carbohydrates and are easier to digest

Toppings can also make all the difference. Avoid sugary syrups in favour of savoury combinations like cheese and spinach or mushrooms for a source of healthy fat or protein. You could even turn your pancakes into a breakfast burrito by filling them with eggs and cheese before rolling them up. 

If you do want sweet pancakes, choose low-sugar toppings and spreads, or choose fresh fruits like strawberries and bananas instead.

Tips For Eating Pancakes When Taking GLP-1's

If you’re taking GLP-1 medications, you may find that your appetite has changed and large meals don’t sit well, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on Pancake Day. Here are some simple tips to help you enjoy pancakes while keeping your meal light and balanced.

Keep Portions Small

GLP-1 medications slow digestion, meaning large meals can leave you feeling overly full or uncomfortable. Stick to a small portion of one or two thin pancakes.

Eat Slowly and Listen to Your Body

It’s easy to overeat when enjoying your food, but with GLP-1s, it’s important to eat slowly and pay attention when you start feeling full. Take your time, chew thoroughly and stop eating when you feel satisfied.

Choose Protein and Healthy Fats

To keep your blood sugar stable and make your meal more filling, pair your pancakes with a source of protein or healthy fat like eggs, Greek yoghurt or low-fat cheese rather than sugary toppings.

Avoid Sugary Syrups

High-sugar toppings can cause blood sugar spikes. Instead, choose fresh berries, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of sugar-free syrup.

Space Out Your Meals

If you know pancakes will be part of your day, plan your meals around them. Because GLP-1s reduce appetite, having a lighter meal earlier in the day can help you enjoy pancakes without discomfort.

By making a few simple adjustments, you can still take part in Pancake Day while staying in tune with your body’s needs.

UK Meds Diabetes-friendly Pancake Recipe & Instructions For How To Make Them

Diabetic-friendly Pancake Ingredients

Making diabetic-friendly pancakes is easy with just a few simple ingredients. You’ll need just three basic ingredients: 

• Plain flour (or a healthier alternative like wholemeal, oat, or buckwheat flour)

• Egg (or an egg substitute for a vegan option)

• Milk (such as semi-skimmed, almond, or soy milk)

To keep them light and healthy, avoid adding butter to the batter and use a light spray oil for cooking. For toppings, choose fresh fruit, natural yoghurt, or chopped plain nuts instead of sugary syrups.

How can I make the perfect diabetic-friendly pancake?

Diabetes UK have created a simple video to explain how to create your dream diabetic-friendly pancake in just 9 easy-to-follow steps, check out the video below:

Follow our easy-to-use checklist to create golden, delicious pancakes every time. Ideal for pancake newbies and seasoned cooks!

UK Meds Diabetic Pancakes Checklist:

Ingredients

To make the pancake recipe outlined below, you will need the following ingredients:

• 50g plain flour (or wholemeal flour)

• 1 medium egg

• 150ml skimmed milk

• Light cooking spray

Method

1. ✅ Step 1: Sift the plain flour into a large mixing bowl. This removes any lumps and ensures a light, airy batter.

2. ✅ Step 2: Add the beaten egg. Gradually pour in the skimmed milk while whisking continuously to create a smooth, lump-free batter.

3. ✅ Step 3: Let the batter rest for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This helps the flour fully absorb the liquid, giving your pancakes a better texture.

4. ✅ Step 4: Use your cooking spray in a hot non-stick frying pan. Pour in 2-3 tablespoons of batter and swirl it around gently to spread evenly. Cook for 30-40 seconds until the edges form a crust and the centre begins to bubble.

5. ✅ Step 5: Flip or toss the pancake and cook the other side for 1 minute or until golden and evenly cooked. Repeat for the remaining batter.

Pro Cooking Tips For Flipping Great Pancakes

First, use a non-stick pan and ensure it’s evenly heated over a medium temperature before adding oil and batter. To test if the pan is ready, cook a small pancake first. If it sticks, your pan may need a little more heat or a light recoat of spraying oil. When adding the batter, use just 2–3 tablespoons and swirl the pan gently to spread it evenly.

Before flipping, loosen the edges with a spatula and shake the pan, if the pancake moves freely, it’s ready to be flipped. To flip with a spatula, simply lift and turn it over. For a classic toss, use a shallow-sided pan, slide the pancake towards the handle, then flick the pan upwards and away in a quick motion to land it neatly on the other side. Let it cook for another minute until golden and evenly cooked.

Final Thoughts

Enjoying Pancake Day while taking GLP-1 medications is all about making small adjustments to suit your needs. By choosing healthier ingredients, keeping portions manageable and selecting better toppings, you can still enjoy yourself without discomfort. Whether you prefer a savoury or sweet pancake, there are plenty of ways to make pancakes work for you. With our easy-to-follow UK Meds diabetes-friendly recipe and expert cooking tips, you’ll have delicious, perfectly cooked pancakes in no time.

Further Reading

Pancake Day • Gestational Diabetes UK

Kick-start your Pancake Day with these low carb pancake roll-ups - diabetes.co.uk