Many people experience side effects when they start taking weight loss medication. These side effects are usually mild and temporary, improving as your body gets used to the medication.
Just remember you are not alone in your weight loss journey, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
Also, you may get lucky and experience no side effects.
But if you do notice side effects, especially when moving up doses, please know that this is completely normal and part of the adjustment process.
Here are some helpful tips to help you manage any side effects.
How do I reduce nausea when taking weight loss medication?
To manage feelings of nausea you should:
- Switch to soups, smoothies, yoghurt or scrambled eggs
- Eat smaller, more regular meals.
- Avoid fatty, spicy or rich foods
- Eat slowly and stop eating when the food noise fades
- Take regular sips of water
- Don’t drink fizzy drinks on days when the injection is due
- Try drinking ginger tea
- Snack on ginger biscuits
- Take an antacid is required.
How do I manage constipation on GLP-1?
To reduce the discomfort of constipation, you should:
- Drink more water, aiming for 2–3L
- Gradually increase your fibre intake. This can include fruit, veg, oats and lentils
- Use a fibre supplement if needed
- Take a magnesium supplement in the evening
- Go for daily walks
- Do not ignore the urge to go to the toilet
- Avoid very low-food days for long periods
High fibre fruits and vegetables include:
- Passion fruit
- Apples
- Pears
- Avocados
- Raspberries
- Blackberries
- Brocolli
- Carrots
- Parsnips
- Brussel Sprouts
- Artichokes
- Kale
How do I avoid getting sulphur burps (egg smell burps)?
While bad smelling burps are a harmless and generally temporary side effect of taking GLP-1 medication, they can be unpleasant and embarrassing. To reduce these, you should:
- Eat smaller portions
- Avoid fatty, fried or greasy foods
- Avoid fizzy drinks
- Avoid overeating
- Sip peppermint or ginger tea
- Use an antacid if required
- Reduce common triggers such as eggs, garlic and cabbage
What should I do to combat tiredness and low energy?
It is fairly common to experience low energy when you start taking weight loss medication. In this case, you should:
- Eat enough protein
- Make sure you drink enough water
- Take electrolytes on low-energy days
- Take a magnesium supplement in the evening to aid sleep
- Take a Vitamin D supplement
- Rest when needed
- Don’t force yourself to do an intense workout on low energy days. Go for a gentle walk instead
Finally, remember that energy levels will improve with time.
I’m experiencing headaches and dizziness. What should I do?
To reduce the severity and regularity of headaches or dizzy spells, you should:
- Increase water intake
- Add electrolytes
- Eat small, regular meals
- Avoid skipping meals
- Reduce caffeine intake
- Avoid under-eating
- Stand up slowly
How can I manage diarrhoea symptoms?
If you experience diarrhoea when taking GLP-1 medication, you should:
- Stick to plain foods temporarily
- Avoid fatty, spicy or sugary foods
- Regularly sip water
- Use electrolytes
- Eat smaller meals
- Eat slowly
- Reintroduce foods gradually
I’ve lost my appetite or forgotten to eat. What should I do?
If you experience a major reduction in appetite, you should still try to take in the calories you need. You should:
- Drink protein shakes or smoothies
- Eat less filling foods, such as soups or yoghurt
- Set gentle meal reminders
- Try to eat smaller, regular meals
- Focus on your protein intake first
- Make sure you do not go full days without eating
Remember that under-eating long-term can stall fat loss, and make it harder to reach your weight loss goals.
When should I seek medical advice about side effects of weight loss medication?
You should discuss your side effects with your GP if you experience:
- Severe or ongoing vomiting
- Severe abdominal pain
- Signs of dehydration
- Chest pain
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Other symptoms that feel unusual, worrying or aren’t listed here
If you have any other questions about the side effects or GLP-1 medication, or you need support, we are here for you. Don’t hesitate to contact us
