Taking GLP-1 or Ozempic medication? Congratulations, it’s a step towards a new you! But of course, there are cautions when it comes to food, as they can impact how it works on your body. Medical research reveals that some foods can worsen the side effects, such as nausea and bloating. Today, we’re taking off 12 foods from the table to get the best out of your medication.
10. Energy Drinks and Fruit Juice
That power-up energy drink or “healthy” glass of fruit juice might put your medication in shambles. Why? Both are loaded with hidden sugars that might send your blood glucose soaring. It fights against the stabilizing effects of your medication. Also, the high caffeine from energy drinks can irritate your digestive system, which is already made sensitive by Ozempic.
9. High-Fat Spreads
When we say high-fat spreads, we mean butter and everything high-fat according to their nutritional facts. GLP-1 medications already slow down how quickly your stomach empties. With that, pure saturated fats can stay for hours, leading to queasiness and indigestion. It can be problematic, especially in the evening, when they might cause heartburn. Instead, opt for lighter alternatives like avocado or a thin spread of hummus.
8. Starchy Vegetables
Starchy veggies refer to potatoes and corn that contain a high glycemic load. It means it can raise your blood sugar levels. It also interferes with Ozempic’s job of keeping your glucose stable throughout the day. You don’t need to remove them from your diet completely, just limit your intake.
7. Greasy Fast Food
Greasy fast food refers to everything you can get from your local fast food joint. Once the grease combines, it produces high-fat and refined carbohydrates. Since your Ozempic slows down digestion, your single slice of pizza can sit on your stomach for a long time. It may lead to nausea and acid reflux as it triggers your gastrointestinal distress.
6. Pastries
Pastries are a big no-no as they’re loaded with both high levels of sugar and fat. It causes your blood glucose to spike, which works against your medication. Meanwhile, the high-fat content triggers nausea and bloating that’s associated with delayed gastric emptying. Imagine your body is forced to deal with a sugar rush and slow digestion. Well, you’ll definitely feel it later on.
5. Sugary Breakfast Cereals
You’re not starting your day right with a sugary cereal. Instead, you’re sabotaging your GLP-1 medication with a food that’s packed with added sugar and refined carbohydrates. It causes a major spike in your blood glucose right at the start of your day. Swap them for high-protein food like eggs to make you feel full longer and steady your blood sugar.
4. High-Fat Dairy
That pint of ice cream isn’t a good idea. Why? That’s high fat and high sugar, which triggers digestive issues. That high-fat content will cause you nausea due to slowed stomach emptying, while the sugar sends your blood glucose on a rollercoaster. This is especially true when consumed in the evening, as it will make you feel discomfort in your sleep.
3. Refined Carbohydrates
Sadly, that simple sandwich on white bread is causing you more harm than good. It’s under refined carbohydrates, which are stripped of their fiber, and as they digest quickly, they turn into sugar. Yup, white rice and crackers are considered refined carbs too. This counteracts the effect of your GLP-1 medication, which should maintain stable blood sugar. Swap them for oatmeal instead to improve the outcomes.
2. Spicy Foods
That kick in your food should be toned down if you’re taking GLP-1 medication. Yup, sad news for those who love spicy foods. Anything spicy can be a major irritant for your digestive system that’s been impacted by GLP-1 medication. As Ozempic slows down, the capsaicin from spicy foods hangs around for a long time to irritate your stomach lining. This leads to acid reflux and stomach cramps that will last for hours.
1. Processed Meats
Better cross out sausage and bacon for breakfast as they’re considered processed meat. They’re high in saturated fats and loaded with sodium and preservatives that eventually lead to discomfort. Since GLP-1 medications slow digestion, processed meats sit in your stomach longer, which amplifies their negative effects. Instead, swap them for lean protein like grilled chicken or fish.