How To Sustain Hydration On GLP-1s

Staying hydrated is key to managing side effects and feeling your best while on weight loss medication. The good news is that a few small changes to your diet and daily routine can help you stay hydrated throughout the day. In this blog, our experts share some simple and effective ways to prevent dehydration and support your health goals.

‍Common GLP-1 side effects

If you’re experiencing nausea, vomiting, constipation and diarrhea, don’t panic, you are not alone. These are the most common side effects of GLP-1 medications. [1] [2] You’re more likely to experience side effects when you start taking GLP-1s or when increasing a dose as your body adjusts to the medication. It can be common to feel fatigued, dehydrated and dizzy. 

The good news is, our Levity experts have listed tips and tricks below to help lessen any unpleasant dehydration side effects you may experience. It helps to plan your meals and snacks ahead of time, so you can feel more in control of dehydration side effects whilst still nourishing your body at the same time.

The importance of staying hydrated

Taking GLP-1 medication may cause nausea, diarrhea, and dehydration so it’s very important to hydrate yourself. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water, and add in a wedge of lemon and a teaspoon of bicarbonate. 

We recommend steering clear of sports or isotonic drinks as these usually contain a high amount of sugar. It’s best to sip your fluids and avoid drinking using a straw as you may feel too full of liquids. 

Stick to water and sugar-free drinks for healthier, calorie-free options and avoid alcohol. If you’re not so good with remembering to drink fluids, try setting alarms or alerts on your phone to help remind you.

Recommended food and drinks to support hydration

Now that you’re a few months into your GLP-1 treatment journey our Levity experts suggest implementing the below strategies to maintain hydration.

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, sugar-free liquids throughout the day. Current recommendations are 3 l/day for men and 2.2 l/day for women.
• Include hydrating foods such as fruits and vegetables in your diet.
• If you experience dizziness or extreme fatigue, contact our clinical team for further personalized guidance. Oral rehydration solutions to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes may be potential suggested route. 

‍Persistent side effects

Speak to the Levity clinical team if you’re experiencing persistent side effects or if they become worse. If you experience any symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately. We’re here to support your weight loss journey every step of the way, if you have any questions visit our support center or get in touch.

About Mei Wan

‍‍Mei Wan, BSc (Hons), is a Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist and Levity Consultant. Mei obtained her nutrition and dietetics honours degree from the University of Surrey, UK, in 2014. She works across a wide array of specialisms, such as sustainable weight management, type 2 diabetes remission, PCOS, (peri-)menopause, heart health, fatty liver, and habit change. Mei advocates enhancing lifespan through delicious, science-backed nutrition advice.

‍References

‍[1] Singh G, Krauthamer M, Bjalme-Evans M. Wegovy (semaglutide): a new weight loss drug for chronic weight management. J Investig Med. 2022 Jan;70(1):5-13. doi: 10.1136/jim-2021-001952. Epub 2021 Oct 27. PMID: 34706925; PMCID: PMC8717485. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34706925/ 

‍[2] Moiz A, Levett JY, Filion KB, Peri K, Reynier P, Eisenberg MJ. Long-Term Efficacy and Safety of Once-Weekly Semaglutide for Weight Loss in Patients Without Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Am J Cardiol. 2024 Jul 1;222:121-130. doi: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2024.04.041. Epub 2024 Apr 26. PMID: 38679221. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38679221/