Why does my GLP-1 impact my digestion and what can I do about it?

Nausea, bloating, and slowed digestion are common side effects of GLP-1 medications, affecting an estimated 40 to 70 percent of people who take them, largely because these medications work in part by intentionally slowing how quickly the stomach empties.† These symptoms are usually mild and often ease with dietary adjustments, timing changes, and general digestive support, though it's worth talking to your prescribing provider if symptoms are severe or persistent.

Why GLP-1 medications affect digestion

According to a clinical review published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings, GLP-1 receptor agonists slow gastric and intestinal motility as part of how they work, which is why nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and delayed gastric emptying are among the most frequently reported effects, occurring in an estimated 40 to 70 percent of patients. The review notes this isn't a malfunction. It's a direct extension of the mechanism that helps with appetite regulation.

A separate review of the clinical literature, available via PMC, explains that these medications relax the upper stomach, reduce stomach contractions, and increase the tightness of the valve between the stomach and small intestine, all of which slow how quickly food moves through the digestive tract.

"It's not a one-size-fits-all approach. Have your provider work with you."

— Dr. Jummy Amuwo, Pharm.D., MPH, BCPS, Clinical Pharmacist and Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist

What clinicians recommend for mild to moderate symptoms

The Mayo Clinic Proceedings review recommends starting with dietary modifications: smaller, more frequent meals; staying well hydrated; and avoiding high-fat or high-sugar foods, which tend to sit in the stomach longer and can worsen nausea and bloating. If dietary changes aren't enough, the review notes that additional options can be discussed with a provider.

For the nausea piece specifically, ginger has one of the better-established general antiemetic research bases of any natural option. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health notes that ginger has shown benefit for nausea in several contexts, though it hasn't been studied specifically in people taking GLP-1 medications. A review of the ginger research published via PMC describes it as an effective and generally well-tolerated option across multiple nausea-related contexts, though the strength of evidence varies by cause.

Where a simple supplement fits in

Our organic ginger and vitamin B6 nausea lozenges are formulated with active ginger or peppermint oil plus vitamin B6, and are designed to help ease occasional upset stomach, indigestion, and feelings of bloat in a convenient, individually wrapped lozenge.† They're not a treatment for medication side effects, but they're a reasonable option to have on hand for the everyday discomfort that can come with slower digestion.

"Every season of a woman's health looks different, and ours does too. We build support for wherever you are right now, not where wellness culture says you should be."

— Amy Suzanne Upchurch, Founder and CEO of Pink Stork

If you're taking a GLP-1 medication, talk with your prescribing provider before adding any new supplement, since supplement timing relative to meals and medication can matter.

Explore the rest of this series

• What causes bloating on GLP-1 medications, and what helps?
• What helps with on-the-go nausea from GLP-1 medications?

Pink Stork Nausea Sweets are USDA Organic and cGMP-certified, with 50,000+ verified Amazon reviews across the brand.

Frequently asked questions

Why do GLP-1 medications cause digestive side effects?

These medications intentionally slow gastric emptying as part of how they support appetite regulation. Nausea, bloating, and changes in bowel habits are a direct extension of that mechanism, occurring in an estimated 40 to 70 percent of patients.

Will GLP-1 digestive side effects go away over time?

For most people, symptoms are mild and improve with dietary adjustments. If symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsening, talk with your prescribing provider.

What foods make GLP-1 digestive symptoms worse?

Clinical guidance points to high-fat and high-sugar foods as common aggravators, since they tend to sit in the stomach longer.

Can supplements treat GLP-1-related nausea?

No supplement is a treatment for medication side effects. Ginger has general research support for nausea in several contexts, though it hasn't been specifically studied in GLP-1 users. Talk to your provider before adding any new supplement.

† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or while managing a medical condition. Keep out of reach of children.