These drugs work by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar and appetite by slowing gastric emptying. This delayed emptying can reduce hunger and help with weight loss but may also contribute to constipation by slowing the movement of food through the digestive system, known as ‘transit time.’ To help alleviate constipation, here are some strategies you could recommend to your patients:
- Increase Fiber Intake: Encourage them to consume more fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Fiber helps bulk up stool and promote bowel movements.
- Stay Hydrated: Adequate water intake is essential, especially when increasing fiber. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep stools soft and prevents further digestive slowing.
- Regular Physical Activity: Physical movement stimulates bowel function. Suggest daily exercise, such as walking, which can help maintain regular digestion and reduce constipation.
- Consider Stool Softeners or Laxatives: For persistent constipation, over-the-counter stool softeners or osmotic laxatives can provide temporary relief. These should be used under supervision with your medical doctor and not relied on long-term.
- Probiotics: Adding probiotics may help balance gut bacteria, which plays a role in regular bowel movements. Patients can try foods rich in probiotics, such as kimchee, sauerkraut, kefir, or take probiotic supplements.
- Smaller, More Frequent Meals: Eating smaller meals throughout the day reduces the digestive load and can help improve transit time through the intestines, reducing constipation.
- Magnesium Supplements: Low-dose magnesium supplements may help by drawing water into the intestines and softening stools, making them easier to pass.
While constipation can be an uncomfortable side effect, these strategies can provide relief and help patients better tolerate their GLP-1 therapy, supporting their overall health goals. It’s important to monitor symptoms and adjust the plan as needed for each patient.