TIPS TO MANAGE SIDE EFFECTS – Helpful guidance to manage common treatment related side eects.

Understanding Side Effects During Your Journey

When starting USEMA, some people may experience mild side effects, especially during the early weeks or when the dose is increased.

These effects are common, temporary, and usually improve as your body adjusts to the treatment.

The most common symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Diarrhoea
• Bloating or acidity

This happens because GLP-1 medicines slow digestion and help you feel full with smaller portions of food.

The good news is that simple food habits and lifestyle adjustments can help manage these symptoms comfortably.

Managing Nausea

Nausea may occur during the early weeks of treatment.

• Eat small, frequent meals instead of large portions
• Choose light and easy-to-digest foods
• Try soothing foods like mint, apple, or ginger-based drinks
• Avoid strong smells or oily foods
• Stop eating once you feel comfortably full

Managing Vomiting

Vomiting may occur if the stomach feels overly full.

• Eat smaller meals more often
• Drink fluids throughout the day to stay hydrated
• If nausea or vomiting persists, avoid drinking water during meals
• Drink fluids 30–60 minutes before or after meals

If vomiting continues, consult your doctor.

Managing Diarrhoea

Loose stools may occur as the digestive system adjusts to treatment.

What helps

Drink more fluids such as:

• Water
• Lemon water
• ORS
• Buttermilk

Eat gentle foods like:

• Plain rice
• Vegetable or chicken soup
• Cooked carrots
• Ripe fruits without skin

Avoid

• Sugary drinks
• Alcohol
• Soft drinks
• Very hot or very cold foods
• Foods containing sugar alcohols (sorbitol, xylitol)

Reduce high-fibre foods temporarily if symptoms persist.

Managing Constipation

Some people may experience slower bowel movement.

• Eat foods rich in dietary fibre such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day
• Stay physically active (daily walking helps digestion)
• Eat balanced meals at regular times

Managing Bloating & Belching

These symptoms can improve with simple eating habits.

• Eat slowly and chew food well
• Choose smaller portion sizes
• Avoid lying down for 30 minutes after meals
• Eat regular meals instead of skipping meals
• Avoid drinking with a straw, which increases air intake
• Keep a 2–3 hour gap between dinner and bedtime

With the right food habits, hydration, and healthy lifestyle practices, many people are able to continue treatment comfortably and achieve meaningful health benefits.

If symptoms persist or worsen, always consult your doctor.

#BeTheForce

References:
Almandoz JP, Wadden TA, Tewksbury C, et al. Nutritional considerations with anti-obesity medications. Obesity (Silver Spring). 2024;32(9):1613–1631. doi:10.1002/oby.24067
Leidy HJ, Armstrong CL, Tang M, Mattes RD, Campbell WW. The inuence of higher protein intake and greater eating frequency on appetite control in overweight and obese men. Obesity (Silver Spring). 2010;18(9):1725–1732. doi:10.1038/oby.2010.45
Bodnaruc AM, Prud’homme D, Blanchet R, et al. Nutritional modulation of endogenous glucagon-like peptide-1 secretion: a review. Nutrition & Metabolism.2016;13:92. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12986-016-0153-3
Ohio State University. How to Activate GLP-1 Naturally. Accessed February 21, 2026.
Joslin Diabetes Center. Healthy Plate Method. Accessed December 29, 2025.
Gentinetta S, Sottotetti F, Manuelli M, Cena H. Dietary recommendations for the management of gastrointestinal symptoms in patients treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists. Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity. 2024;17:4817–4824. doi:10.2147/DMSO.S494919
American Diabetes Association. What Can I Eat? Healthy Eating Away from Home (WCIE Participant Guide, Class 3).
https://professional.diabetes.org/sites/default/les/media/wcie_participant_guide_class_3_lr.pdf

Disclaimer:
The information provided herein is prepared based on articles provided under reference and reviewed by a qualified dietitian intended for bringing general awareness and are/is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Seek advice from the qualified health care professional before adopting the suggestions or if you have a doubt regarding your health condition. USV Private Ltd., (“USV”) disclaims all liabilities or damages arising directly or indirectly from the advisory services. Copying, circulation and distribution of this content is strictly prohibited.