In this article Queensland Specialist Weight Loss Centre’s dietitian and nutritionist Vanessa Jenkin provides advice on managing digestive symptoms while taking a GLP-1 agonist.
If you’re using a GLP-1 agonist to support weight loss or manage type 2 diabetes, you may experience some changes in digestion. These medications mimic the hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar and appetite. One of their effects is slowing stomach emptying — which helps you feel full longer, but can also cause gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea.
The good news? These side effects are usually temporary and improve as your body adjusts. In the meantime, a few simple strategies can help manage symptoms and keep you feeling more comfortable.
Nausea is one of the most common early side effects. Try eating smaller, more frequent meals and chewing your food thoroughly. Stop eating when you first feel full, and avoid high fat or spicy foods, which can delay digestion and worsen nausea. Staying well-hydrated (aim for at least 2 litres of water per day) and avoiding fizzy drinks can also make a big difference.
Slower digestion can sometimes lead to constipation. Combat this by increasing your intake of fibre-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. Again, hydration is key — aim for over 2 litres of water daily. Light physical activity, such as walking after meals, can also stimulate digestion. If needed, a gentle fibre supplement like Metamucil or a stool softener such as Movicol may help.
Though less common, some people experience diarrhea. If that’s the case, reduce your intake of artificial sweeteners, dairy, caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages. Boosting your intake of soluble fibre from foods like oats, legumes, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and psyllium can also help. As always, keeping up with fluids is essential to avoid dehydration.
GLP-1 agonists are effective tools for managing diabetes and supporting weight loss, but they can come with digestive side effects. Thankfully, most symptoms are manageable with small changes to your eating habits, hydration, and activity levels.
If symptoms don’t improve or start to interfere with your daily life, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor or a dietitian. With the right support, you can stay on track!
Are you ready to take your weight loss journey to the next level with the support of a dietitian?
To make an appointment with Vanessa for assistance and support with your weight loss journey call (07) 3544 6446 or E: dietitian@qsweightloss.com.au
About Vanessa
Vanessa Jenkin is a dietitian and nutritionist. She has over 15 years of experience, specialising in medical weight management, promoting sustainable health change through evidence-based, empathetic care. Well credentialed Vanessa is an Accredited Practicing Dietitian, Accredited Nutritionist BSc (Nutr & Diet) Hons, APD, AN.
