January 15, 2025
How to Feel Better (Naturally) While Taking GLP-1 Medications
By Emily Hernandez, ND
If you’ve started using GLP-1 medications to lose weight or get a handle on your blood sugar, you may have noticed some of these less-than-pleasant side effects:
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Bloating
While the new GLP-1 medications can be remarkably effective for managing Type 2 diabetes and jumpstarting weight loss, they can sometimes throw off your digestion – especially when you first start taking them. In fact, over 80% of people taking GLP-1 medications report experiencing mild-to-moderate gastrointestinal symptoms. Fortunately, there are natural approaches you can take to help you feel better, making it easier to stay on track with your health goals.
Why Do These Side Effects Happen?
GLP-1 medications – best known by brand names like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Saxenda – mimic the natural hormones in your body to:
- Reduce appetite and promote fullness
- Lower blood sugar levels by triggering insulin release
- Slow digestion, which helps regulate energy use
In the process, these meds can affect your liver, gallbladder, and gut, all of which play crucial roles in digestion and detoxification. For example, as your body metabolizes fat, your liver and gallbladder work harder to eliminate toxins. They do this largely by producing and releasing bile. These medications, however, slow the release of bile. When bile flow is disrupted, it can lead to digestive discomfort and other challenges.
Supporting Your Body Naturally
The good news? Natural remedies can help minimize side effects while supporting your overall health. Here are some key nutrients and herbs to consider:
1. Liver and Gallbladder Support
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Milk Thistle: This potent antioxidant helps protect liver cells and supports detoxification.
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Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric promotes bile flow and supports the liver.
2. Digestive Support
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Artichoke: Enhances bile production, protects the liver, and aids digestion.
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Bupleurum: A traditional Chinese herb that supports liver health and intestinal balance.
3. Gut Motility and Comfort
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Ginger: A natural remedy for nausea and digestive discomfort, ginger promotes healthy gut motility and helps ease bloating.
4. Hydrating Bile Acids
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TUDCA (Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid): This bile acid supports bile flow and reduces the risk of liver-related complications.
Holistic Tips for GLP-1 Success
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Personalize Your Care: If you’re experiencing side effects, talk to your healthcare practitioner about adjusting your medication dosage or incorporating supportive supplements.
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Support Your Microbiome: A healthy gut helps regulate natural GLP-1 production while your diet influences your gut microbiome. So, for added microbiome support, include prebiotic and probiotic-rich foods in your diet.
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Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration supports digestion and overall detoxification.
By combining natural remedies with your prescribed GLP-1 medication, you can feel more comfortable and continue progressing toward your health goals. Our new LiverGB+™ formula is a great option to consider for addressing side effects related to GLP-1 therapy.
Interested in learning more about liver and gallbladder function? We’ve got resources. Start with the articles below for a refresher on these digestive dynamos, and then test your knowledge with our 2-minute quiz.