Constipation and GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications: What You Should Know
- Rise Up Health
- Jun 18, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
If you’re taking a GLP-1 medication like semaglutide or tirzepatide for weight loss and have noticed some new digestive issues—like constipation—you’re not alone. This is one of the most common side effects people report, especially during the early phases of treatment or as doses increase.
The good news? There are several simple, effective ways to support your body through it—and we’re here to help you figure out what works best for you.
When clients bring this up, we usually walk through these five key questions to help find the root of the issue and build a personalized plan that feels doable.
1. How’s Your Water Intake? Really.
It might sound basic, but staying well-hydrated is one of the most powerful tools for managing constipation. Without enough water, your colon pulls more moisture from your stool, making it hard, dry, and more difficult to pass. That can lead to discomfort, bloating, and even straining.
What does good hydration look like? You want your urine to be a pale yellow color and to be visiting the bathroom regularly throughout the day. If you're feeling thirsty, sluggish, or experiencing dry mouth or headaches, those are subtle signs you could be under-hydrated.
💧 Pro tip: Try carrying a reusable water bottle and sipping throughout the day, especially if you’re increasing your fiber intake or are spending time outside in warm weather.
2. Are You Getting Enough Fiber?
Fiber plays a huge role in digestive health—and when it’s lacking, constipation can creep in quickly.
There are two types of fiber your body needs:
Soluble fiber, which dissolves in water and forms a gel-like substance that helps soften stool.
Insoluble fiber, which adds bulk and helps move things along more efficiently.
Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and seeds helps support both types. But even with a good diet, some people need a little extra help—especially on GLP-1 medications, which slow down digestion. That’s where a gentle, non-bloating fiber supplement can be really helpful.
👉 FiberMend®: This soluble fiber blend supports intestinal regularity and helps nourish beneficial gut bacteria, without the gas or bloating that can come with some fiber products.
If you add a fiber supplement, do it slowly and always increase your water intake along with it.
3. Are You Eating Small, Frequent Meals?
One of the effects of GLP-1 medications is delayed gastric emptying—meaning food stays in your stomach longer. That can lead to early fullness, nausea, and yes, slower-moving bowels.
One way to work with this instead of against it? Try eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day. This gentle stimulation helps activate your digestive system more consistently, which can improve overall motility.
Bonus: spacing meals out can also help reduce some of the queasy or overly-full feelings that sometimes happen when starting these medications.
4. How Much Are You Moving Each Day?
Movement is medicine—especially when it comes to digestion.
Physical activity stimulates your abdominal muscles and the natural contractions in your intestines, which help push waste through the colon. Even light movement can make a noticeable difference.
You don’t need to hit the gym every day to benefit. Walking after meals, stretching in the morning, or doing a gentle yoga flow can all encourage healthy bowel function and reduce bloating or discomfort.
It's worth noting that while physical activity can be beneficial for constipation, it's important to choose activities that suit your fitness level and health condition. If you have any concerns or underlying medical conditions, it's advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise program.
5. Could Something Else Be Contributing?
Sometimes, constipation isn’t just about diet or hydration. There may be other factors at play—like medications (iron supplements, opioids, etc.), certain medical conditions (like hypothyroidism or IBS), or a history of gallbladder removal or GI surgery.
In these cases, we may recommend additional support to help things move more smoothly.
👉 Advanced Digestive Enzymes: This supplement helps support digestion, especially if you struggle with bloating, indigestion, or have had your gallbladder removed.
👉 Magnesium CitraMate: Magnesium is a gentle way to encourage regularity, and this form is well-tolerated by most people.
Still not moving regularly, even with all of the above? An occasional use of an over-the-counter option like Miralax may help—just be sure to follow the directions and talk to a provider if you need it consistently.
Severity and duration: If constipation is severe, accompanied by intense pain, or associated with other concerning symptoms like bleeding, unintended weight loss, or changes in bowel habits, it's important to seek medical advice promptly.
So, Why Do GLP-1 Medications Cause Constipation in the First Place?
Great question.
GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide work by slowing digestion, increasing feelings of fullness, and improving blood sugar regulation. But that delay in how quickly food moves through your stomach and intestines also slows down your bowel habits.
Here’s a quick breakdown of how this happens:
Food stays in your stomach longer, which means your digestive system is working more slowly overall.
The colon absorbs more water from stool than usual, making it harder and more difficult to pass.
Natural muscle contractions in your GI tract slow down, reducing the urge to go.
What’s Next?
If you’re experiencing constipation while using GLP-1s, don’t be discouraged—it’s a very common side effect, and most people find relief with some targeted adjustments.
You don’t have to figure this out alone. At Rise Up Health, we help clients troubleshoot symptoms like this all the time. Whether it’s adjusting hydration, finding the right supplement routine, or identifying underlying factors, we’re here to make your GLP-1 weight loss journey smoother and more sustainable.
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