Diarrhea While on GLP-1s: Relief Tips

This post is a quick guide to handling diarrhea, mixing real-life tips from people who've dealt with it and solid advice backed by science.

Basic Strategies

• Avoid triggers: Stay away from caffeine, alcohol, fatty/fried foods, dairy, sugar alcohols

• Soluble fiber: Gradually introduce foods like oatmeal, smooth peanut butter

• Active hydration: Replace lost fluids with water, electrolyte solutions, or broth

• BRAT diet: Bananas, rice, applesauce, toast and easy-to-digest foods

• Meal spacing: Small, frequent meals instead of large ones

• Food journal: Track foods that trigger episodes and avoid them

• Temperature control: Room temperature foods often cause less irritation than hot/cold

By Severity Level

Mild Diarrhea

• Natural binders: Plain white rice, boiled potatoes without skin, toast

• Probiotics: Yogurt with live cultures, kefir, or probiotic supplements

• Herbal teas: Chamomile, peppermint, or ginger tea between meals

• Pectin-rich foods: Applesauce, bananas, cooked carrots

• Bone broth: Homemade or low-sodium versions for nutrients and hydration

• Relaxation techniques: Stress reduction may help improve digestive function

Moderate Diarrhea

• OTC remedies: Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate (bismuth subsalicylate)

• Fiber supplements: Psyllium husk or methylcellulose to add bulk

• Meal modification: Well-cooked, peeled, and seedless vegetables and fruits

• Electrolyte balance: Sports drinks (diluted 50/50 with water) or electrolyte tablets

• Zinc supplements: May help restore intestinal lining (consult doctor first)

• Injection timing: Consider adjusting injection day to weekends/days off

Severe/Persistent Diarrhea

• Stronger OTC options: Imodium (loperamide) for temporary relief

• Prescription medications: Consult doctor about anti-diarrheal medications

• Medication adjustment: Work with doctor to possibly lower GLP-1 dose temporarily

• Comprehensive stool testing: Rule out infection or other causes

• Specialized diet: Consider working with dietitian on low-FODMAP or elimination diet

• IV hydration: May be necessary if dehydration becomes significant

Warning Signs (Seek Immediate Medical Care)

• Severe abdominal or rectal pain

• Blood in stool

• Black, tarry stools

• Fever above 101°F (38.3°C)

• Signs of dehydration (excessive thirst, dizziness, dark urine, decreased urination)

• Diarrhea lasting more than 2 days without improvement

• Severe weakness or inability to keep down fluids

Scientific References for this article:

• ^{Gastrointestinal adverse events with GLP-1 receptor agonists in type 2 diabetes: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials — 2021}

• ^{Gastrointestinal tolerability of GLP-1 receptor agonists in type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis — 2018}

• ^{Semaglutide treatment and gastrointestinal adverse events: Safety analysis from STEP and SUSTAIN trials — 2018}

• ^{Mechanisms of diarrhea induced by GLP-1 receptor agonists: Role of gastric emptying and bile acid metabolism — 2022}

• ^{Evidence-based dietary and fiber management strategies for chronic diarrhea — 2017}