A 2026 clinical commentary in Functional Medicine noted that unstructured caloric restriction during GLP-1 therapy, particularly when it trends toward processed or nutrient-poor foods, can reduce the substrates needed to support beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium, Akkermansia muciniphila, and Lactobacillus species
These include: Nausea (affecting more than 1 in 10 people) Vomiting and diarrhoea Constipation Abdominal pain or discomfort Dyspepsia (indigestion) Headache Injection site reactions (redness, itching, or bruising) Most gastrointestinal side effects tend to improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication
(17) Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Clinical trials have found a link between Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), oxidative stress and glutathione
1 Inadequate protein or micronutrient intake while appetite is suppressed
dose) and to keep stimulants like caffeine in check, particularly in the afternoon and evening
For me, that means being extra cautious with 'greasy food' like fried dishes or very rich sauces