How to Relieve Constipation from Ozempic: Lifestyle Tips and Remedies

How to Combat Constipation from Ozempic

Ozempic is a prescription injectable medication used to improve blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It contains semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist.

While Ozempic can be an effective diabetes treatment, it does come with some potential side effects. One of the most common is constipation.

If youre experiencing constipation after starting Ozempic, there are several ways you can find relief and get your digestive system back on track.

What Causes Constipation from Ozempic?

Ozempic helps regulate blood sugar by slowing digestion and prolonging the feeling of fullness after eating. It does this by:

• Slowing stomach emptying
• Increasing insulin production
• Suppressing appetite

Unfortunately, these actions can also result in constipation as a side effect. When your digestive system is slowed down, it can lead to infrequent, difficult bowel movements.

Studies show gastrointestinal issues like constipation are among the most common side effects of semaglutide, affecting up to 20% of patients.

Tips to Relieve Constipation from Ozempic

If youre struggling with constipation while taking Ozempic, here are some methods that may help:

1. Drink More Fluids

Staying hydrated is key for preventing constipation. Make an effort to drink 6-8 glasses of fluids per day, such as water, herbal tea or broth.

Getting enough fluid softens your stool and allows it to pass more easily through your digestive tract.

2. Eat High Fiber Foods

Fiber acts like a bulking agent to add bulk to stool. This helps food and waste move smoothly through your system.

Some great high fiber foods include vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils and whole grains.

3. Exercise Regularly

Physical activity can stimulate muscle contractions in your intestines to help move stool through.

Aim for at least 30 minutes per day of moderate activity like brisk walking, cycling or swimming.

4. Establish a Bathroom Routine

Going to the bathroom at the same time each day trains your body and mind to have a bowel movement.

Take some time first thing in the morning or after meals to sit on the toilet and allow your body to relax.

5. Use a Squat Position

Sitting upright on a toilet can make bowel movements more difficult. Instead, try squatting or elevating your feet to mimic a squat.

This straightens the angle of your rectum, allowing for easier elimination.

6. Try Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial gut bacteria that support digestive health. They may help relieve constipation in some individuals.

Foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi all contain probiotics. You can also take probiotic supplements.

7. Consider Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral that draws water into the intestines to soften and ease the passage of stool.

Taking a magnesium supplement or increasing magnesium-rich foods like spinach, almonds and avocado may improve constipation.

Natural Laxatives for Constipation Relief

If lifestyle and dietary remedies arent providing enough relief, you may want to try using natural laxatives. Some options include:

Prune Juice

Prune juice contains sorbitol, a natural laxative compound. Drinking 4-8 ounces per day can help relax the bowels and draw water into the intestines for easier elimination.

Psyllium Husk

Psyllium is a type of soluble fiber that soaks up water and adds bulk to stool. Take it in powder form or as a supplement with water.

Flaxseeds

Flaxseeds are very high in fiber to help move things along. Add ground flax to cereal, yogurt, oatmeal or smoothies.

Senna

Senna is an FDA-approved natural laxative. It contains compounds called anthraquinones that stimulate bowel contractions. Use senna sparingly and avoid long-term use.

Triphala

Triphala is an Ayurvedic herbal remedy made from three dried fruits. It has antimicrobial and laxative effects to support regularity.

When to See Your Doctor

Be sure to contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

• No bowel movement for 3 or more days
• Abdominal pain or bloating
• Rectal bleeding
• Weight loss
• Persistent changes in bowel habits

These can be signs of a serious underlying condition. Your doctor may switch your medication, adjust the dosage or provide other treatment options.

Can You Stop Taking Ozempic for Constipation?

Constipation is often mild and temporary when first starting Ozempic. Its recommended to give your body some time to adjust to the medication.

However, if it persists beyond 2-3 weeks or becomes severe, talk to your doctor. They may recommend discontinuing Ozempic or switching to another type of diabetes medication with less GI effects.

Never stop taking Ozempic without medical supervision, as this can lead to dangerous spikes in blood sugar.

Prevention Tips for New Ozempic Users

If youre about to start taking Ozempic, you can take proactive steps to avoid constipation by:

• Increasing your fluid and fiber intake before starting Ozempic
• Adding physical activity to your daily routine
• Taking a probiotic supplement to support gut health
• Eating more magnesium-rich foods
• Setting a reminder to use the bathroom after meals

Implementing healthy bowel habits before beginning Ozempic can help minimize GI disruptions.

The Bottom Line

Constipation is a common side effect of the diabetes medication Ozempic. Making dietary and lifestyle changes, using natural laxatives and practicing prevention can help manage this inconvenient symptom.

Pay attention to your body and talk to your doctor if constipation from Ozempic becomes severe or persistent. Adjustments to your medication may be needed.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.