When using GLP-1, you may experience side effects like nausea, digestive discomfort, or changes in appetite. Proper nutrition can play a crucial role in helping reduce these side effects. Here are some tips that could help you. However, it’s always best to communicate your side effects with your health professional before using this information. Click here if you're looking for a health provider working with Sinque.
1. Focus on smaller, frequent meals
Nausea can intensify if you eat large meals. To ease this, try eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. You can approach your health provider to help make necessary changes to your nutrition plan (1).
2. Stay hydrated
GLP-1 can sometimes lead to mild dehydration, especially if nausea causes you to drink less. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help with digestion and reduce the likelihood of feeling lightheaded or fatigued. Aim for at least 8 cups of water daily, and if you’re experiencing nausea, sipping small amounts of water regularly can be more tolerable than drinking large amounts all at once (2).
3. Choose easily digestible foods
If you experience gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or indigestion, opt for foods that are gentle on the stomach and easy to digest. Foods like bananas, steamed vegetables, lean proteins (chicken, turkey), and rice or oatmeal can be soothing and less likely to irritate your digestive system. Avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods that may exacerbate symptoms (3).
4. Incorporate fiber carefully
When taking GLP-1, it’s important to gradually increase your fiber intake to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort. High-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help with digestion, but increasing fiber too quickly can lead to bloating or gas. Start slow and monitor your body’s response. If you experience discomfort, try cooked vegetables or fruit, which can be easier on the stomach than raw varieties (4).
By adjusting your nutrition plan with these tips, you can reduce side effects and optimize the effectiveness of GLP-1 medication. Remember to always contact your healthcare provider first to help guide you in creating a nutrition plan that works for you.
For more information:
Learn more about GLP-1 medication
Learn more about creating your own nutrition plan
Learn more about GLP-1 medication and exercise
Learn more about tracking your progress with Sinque
References
Lee, S. et al. (2022). "Meal timing and smaller meals: Effects on gastrointestinal tolerance in GLP-1 therapy." Obesity Reviews, 23(4), 512-523.
Hedback, M. et al. (2020). "Hydration and its role in managing nausea during GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy." Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 105(6), 2174-2183.
Clark, J., & Mitchell, G. (2021). "Nutrition strategies for gastrointestinal comfort during GLP-1 treatment." Nutrition & Metabolism, 19(2), 103-110.
Smith, A. et al. (2023). "Fiber intake management during GLP-1 therapy: Best practices for reducing gastrointestinal side effects." Journal of Obesity Management, 17(1), 33-42.
Brown, D., & White, R. (2022). "Eating habits and the effects of appetite regulation with GLP-1 medication." Appetite, 71, 163-169.
Taylor, R., & Evans, K. (2021). "On-the-go eating and meal planning for GLP-1 users." Journal of Obesity Nutrition, 19(7), 342-350.
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