IBS news flash. Weight loss medications..
The new injectables have a lot of GI side effects, and that's not great for IBS
New research is coming out about the risk of gastrointestinal side effects of weight loss injections that are GLP-1 receptor agonists.
These are medications such as liraglutide (Saxenda), tirzepatide (Zepbound), and semaglutide ((Wegovy, Ozempic).
It’s not great news.
Gut upsets are literally the most common side effects of these medications. It’s a long list and it reads exactly like IBS symptoms:
abdominal pain
diarrhea
constipation
bloating
gas
nausea
Wait, there’s more…
vomiting
belching
heartburn
stomach pain
dyspepsia
And much worse…
pancreatitis
bowel obstruction
gastroparesis
If you’re on these meds, make sure your doctor and pharmacist both know you’re dealing with IBS as well. Ask them for the version least likely to cause the side effects you’re worried about. Ask for the best ways to prevent or manage those side effects.
And consider adding in a slowly fermenting soluble fiber supplement.
That will help regulate bowel motility and manage both diarrhea and constipation, as well as painful abdominal spasms and cramps. It’s also helpful for upper GI side effects like heartburn.
The prebiotic effect of the slow fermentation will also help your gut microbiome, and get your good gut bacteria thriving.
And the soluble fiber itself helps regulate blood sugar levels, which is critical for diabetes and pre-diabetes.
You are not alone.
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XOXO
Heather
Heather Van Vorous Over 40 years dealing with IBSGet full help for IBS here
