How to Manage GLP-1 Side Effects

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) medications are designed to mimic the GLP-1 hormone that your body naturally produces. This hormone plays a significant role in regulating your blood sugar levels and appetite. GLP-1 medications work by slowing down the digestive process, reducing your appetite, and promoting a feeling of fullness. These effects can be incredibly beneficial for weight loss, but they can also lead to some common side effects.

Nausea

Nausea is one of the most commonly reported side effects of GLP-1 medications. It can be uncomfortable and may deter you from continuing with your treatment. Here are some strategies to manage nausea:

• Eat small, frequent meals. Instead of three large meals, try eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. This approach can help keep nausea at bay by preventing your stomach from becoming too full at once.
• Avoid greasy or spicy foods. These types of foods can aggravate nausea. Opt for bland, easy-to-digest foods like toast, rice, bananas, and applesauce.
• Stay hydrated. Drink water throughout the day rather than drinking large amounts at once. Staying hydrated is essential, but too much water at once can exacerbate nausea.
• Ginger and peppermint. Both ginger and peppermint are known for their nausea-relieving properties. Try ginger tea or peppermint tea or sucking on ginger candies.

Fatigue

Fatigue is another common side effect that can impact your daily activities and overall motivation. Here are some tips to manage fatigue:

• Prioritise sleep. Ensure you’re getting at least 8 hours of sleep per night. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading a book or taking a warm bath, to help signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.
• Stay active. While it might seem counterintuitive, light exercise can actually boost your energy levels. Activities like walking, stretching, or yoga can help combat fatigue. Avoid overexertion, but aim to incorporate some form of physical activity into your daily routine.
• Healthy snacks. Keep your energy levels up by eating small, nutritious snacks throughout the day. Options like nuts, fruit, yoghurt, and whole grains can provide sustained energy without causing spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels.

Digestive issues

Digestive issues such as constipation or diarrhoea can occur when taking GLP-1 medications. Managing these symptoms is crucial for maintaining comfort and digestive health:

• Increase fibre gradually. If you’re experiencing constipation, gradually increase your fibre intake with foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes. Increasing fibre too quickly can cause bloating, so it’s best to introduce it slowly.
• Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps keep your digestive system functioning smoothly and can prevent constipation.
• Probiotics. Consider adding probiotic-rich foods like natural yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, or kimchi to your diet. Probiotics promote healthy gut bacteria and can improve digestion.
• Monitor trigger foods. If you’re experiencing diarrhoea, identify and avoid foods that may be triggering this reaction. Common culprits include high-fat foods, dairy products, and certain artificial sweeteners.

Maintaining a positive mindset is essential for overcoming challenges and staying motivated on your weight loss journey. Here are some strategies to help you stay positive:

Celebrate small wins

Recognise and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Whether it’s sticking to your meal plan for a day, completing a workout, or simply getting through the day without giving in to unhealthy cravings, every step forward is worth celebrating. Celebrating small wins can boost your morale and keep you motivated.

Practice gratitude

Each day, take a few moments to write down three things you’re grateful for. This simple practice can shift your focus from what’s going wrong to what’s going right, improving your mood and overall outlook. It can be something as simple as a beautiful sunny day, a supportive friend, or the fact that you’re making progress on your health journey.

Stay connected

Reach out to friends, family, or support groups to share your experiences and gain encouragement. Having a support network can provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community. Whether it’s a friend who joins you for walks, a family member who cooks healthy meals with you, or an online support group where you can share tips and experiences, staying connected can make a big difference.

Mindfulness and relaxation

Incorporate mindfulness practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga into your routine. These activities can help reduce stress, improve your mood, and enhance your overall wellbeing. Mindfulness can also help you stay present and focused, making it easier to make healthy choices and manage cravings.

Set realistic expectations

Understand that the weight loss journey is not always linear, and there will be ups and downs. Set realistic expectations for yourself and be kind to yourself when things don’t go as planned. Focus on progress rather than perfection, and remember that each day is a new opportunity to make positive changes.

To help you apply these strategies, you can try our weekly challenge:

• Identify one symptom. Choose one symptom that you struggle with the most, whether it’s nausea, fatigue, or a digestive issue. Implement a strategy to manage it effectively.
• Practise one positivity tip daily. Choose one tip for staying positive and incorporate it into your daily routine. Whether it’s celebrating small wins, practising gratitude, staying connected, mindfulness, or setting realistic expectations, find what works best for you.

Managing the side effects of GLP-1 medications and maintaining a positive mindset are crucial components of a successful weight loss journey.

By implementing the strategies outlined in this guide, you can navigate the challenges more effectively and stay motivated to reach your goals.

Remember, this journey is about progress, not perfection. Stay committed, be kind to yourself, and celebrate every step forward.

You have the tools and support to succeed, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

 

Disclaimer

This article is for general information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Medic Spot Limited has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but makes no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. In the event of an emergency, please call 999 for immediate assistance.

There is no guarantee of a specific weight loss medication being prescribed. Clinicians will review your online questionnaire and will recommend the most appropriate weight loss treatments for you based on your answers. In some cases the clinicians may contact you for additional information. See our Terms of Service for more information.