Indigestion Relief on GLP-1s: Memo with Tips

Indigestion is a common challenge for many taking GLP-1 medications like Zepbound, Mounjaro, Ozempic, and Wegovy. This post is dedicated to providing quick, actionable relief and management strategies, drawing upon both social wisdom from patient experiences and data from scientific research.

Basic Strategies

• Portion control: Eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day

• Meal timing: Avoid eating within 2-3 hours of bedtime

• Chewing focus: Chew each bite thoroughly (20-30 times)

• Drinking habits: Sip beverages between meals, not with meals

• Sitting upright: Maintain good posture while eating and stay upright for 30+ minutes after

• Breathing technique: Practice diaphragmatic breathing to reduce pressure on stomach

• Clothing choice: Wear loose-fitting clothes that don't constrict abdomen

By Severity Level

Mild Dyspepsia

• Food triggers: Eliminate common culprits (fatty/fried foods, spicy foods, citrus, tomatoes)

• Herbal support: Ginger tea, chamomile tea, or fennel tea after meals

• Apple cider vinegar: 1 tsp in water before meals (works for some people)

• Mindful eating: Focus on food, eat slowly, avoid distractions

• Walking after meals: Light 10-15 minute walks to aid digestion

• Non-minty gum: Chewing gum stimulates saliva which can help digestion (avoid mint)

Moderate Dyspepsia

• OTC relief: Calcium carbonate (Tums, Rolaids) for occasional symptoms

• Sodium bicarbonate: Baking soda in water for immediate relief (not for regular use)

• Enzyme supplements: Digestive enzymes with meals may improve breakdown of food

• Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL): Chew tablets before meals

• Slippery elm: Tea or lozenges may coat and soothe digestive tract

• Meal spacing: Allow 3-4 hours between meals for complete digestion

Severe/Persistent Dyspepsia

• H2 blockers: OTC medications like famotidine (Pepcid) or cimetidine (Tagamet)

• Proton pump inhibitors: OTC options like omeprazole (Prilosec) for short-term use

• Alginates: Gaviscon and similar products form a protective barrier in stomach

• Medication adjustment: Discuss dose reduction or alternative GLP-1 options with doctor

• Medical evaluation: Rule out H. pylori infection or other underlying conditions

• Specialized testing: Endoscopy may be recommended for persistent symptoms

Warning Signs (Consult Healthcare Provider)

• Severe pain, especially if radiating to jaw, neck, arm, or back

• Persistent nausea or vomiting

• Difficulty swallowing

• Unintended weight loss

• Black, tarry stools or bloody vomit

• Symptoms that wake you from sleep

• Worsening symptoms despite management strategies

Scientific References for this article:

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

• ^{Gastrointestinal adverse events with GLP-1 receptor agonists: Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials — 2021}

• ^{Effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists on gastric emptying, postprandial glucose, and gastrointestinal symptoms — 2016}

• ^{Semaglutide and gastrointestinal tolerability in clinical trials (SUSTAIN pooled analysis) — 2018}

• ^{Management of functional dyspepsia: Evidence-based review of diet and pharmacologic strategies — 2019}