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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.

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Common Food Myths About Diabetes

myths about diabetesThe prevalence of diabetes is alarmingly spreading worldwide. Data from WHO shows that its global prevalence was about 8% in 2011 and is estimated to rise to 10% by 2030. Some of my patients are of the impression that they cannot lead a normal life once they’ve been diagnosed with Diabetes. I always tell them to treat diabetes normally. The main focus should be on food, followed by activity and then medication. If instructions are followed well, your diabetes will be under control. However, my experience has been that when it comes to food, most have many misconceptions which are very important to clear. I would like to share few of these common myths about Diabetes with you as well.

Common Food Myths About Diabetes

1. Avoid Rice
This is the commonest myth which everyone has, including people planning to eat rice. White rice is not bad. It is a simple sugar which easily shoots the sugar. However, if you have a good source of proteins like sprouts/curd/buttermilk along with the meal, it helps in the slow release of sugar.
Healthy Alternative: You can opt for brown rice which is packed with antioxidants and fiber.

2. Avoid Potatoes
Many people avoid potato thinking it raises blood sugar. However, potatoes being starchy, need to be eaten in moderation. Though high on carbohydrates, it is also rich in Vitamin B6 which helps in nerve functioning at cellular level. Also, the cooking medium plays an important role. A boiled potato is far better than a deep fried potato.
Healthy Alternative: If the potato is clubbed with some other veggie, that’s absolutely alright as the portion of potato would be low. A boiled or barbequed or grilled potato is a good option as well.

3. Avoid Sugar
Everyone says, I avoid sugary stuff, still my sugars are not under control. However, if you see the other part of their diet, it’s loaded with fats meaning deep fried stuff, chips, wafers, etc. This is because of the insulin resistance which is predominantly seen in Type 2 Diabetic people. The fat gets deposited at the abdominal region which resists insulin from reaching the cells. This leads to high sugar levels in the blood. Hence, along with sugar, unhealthy fats need to be kept at bay as well. Remember, not all fats are bad.
Healthy Alternative: If you plan to make vada/samosa at home, you can even roast them which requires less oil that equals less harm. If it is eaten out, moderation needs to be followed.

4. Avoid All The Fruits (especially mangoes/banana/grapes/chikoo)
Many people say that fruits are sweet, hence need to be avoided. However, the truth is that fruits are natural sugars and provide instant energy. Moreover, they are packed with antioxidants, vitamins and trace minerals. The timing of when you eat the fruits is equally important. It is best to consume them on an empty stomach for better absorption of nutrients or else, they can also be eaten during mid-morning or mid evening before 6 pm. It is always better to opt for a whole fruit instead of fruit juice.
Healthy Alternative: Combine fruits with a handful of nuts for the dose of fiber which is present in nuts. You can also have chilled fruit yogurt (chopped fruits in yogurt).

These are a few common myths about diabetes! It is the lack of awareness that can mislead patients. Lastly, remember that sugar by itself is a sweet poison which has it’s own disadvantages. The healthy alternative to sugar is jaggery, honey and stevia (natural sweetener). As a message to all diabetics, I’d like to remind you that you can lead a normal life by following a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

We hope these common myths about Diabetes help you make better choices. Do let us know your thoughts below. For more on Diabetes, check out Healthy Reads.

For further guidance and motivation by certified experts, join the GOQii Diabetes Care program. It’s India’s only diabetes program that is driven by Smart Science and Personal Coaching to improve Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS), Postprandial Blood Sugar (PP), reduce HbA1c levels and let you win gold! You can subscribe here: https://store.goqii.com/diabetescare.

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Top 5 Sources of Protein For Vegetarians

Protein For Vegetarians Indian Dietetics Association claimed a few years back that vegetarian diets in our country are 84% protein deficient along with 65% protein deficiency in the diets of non-vegetarians too. Data also suggest that 93% of Indians are not aware of their ideal protein intake per day. Proteins are extremely crucial for the body. The word Protein comes from a Greek word Proteos meaning “First Place” or “Primary”. Some important functions of protein are:

  • Growth and maintenance
  • Structural part of enzymes required for many biochemical reactions
  • Structural part of hormones which are key messengers in the body
  • Providing rigidity and stiffness to cells and tissues all over the body
  • Maintaining ideal pH and balancing fluids
  • Bolster immune health
  • Providing energy  
  • Transporting and storing nutrients

The recommended dietary allowance for protein is 0.8 gram per kg body weight for normal healthy individuals. So, if you are 60 kg, multiply it by 0.8, and your protein intake per day should be around 48 grams. Protein intake will vary based on various stages of life and for athletes, pregnant and lactating mothers, kidney & liver patients.

5 Sources of Protein For Vegetarians 

  1. Sattu (gram flour): Originated from Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh, Sattu is known as the poor man’s protein. But recently, it has gained popularity due to its amazing nutrient profile. It is basically roasted and ground gram flour. You can make Sattu ki roti, traditional Sattu drink with lemon and pink salt, Sattu fortification in dhokla, idli, dosa, etc. Try to take at least 2 tablespoons of Sattu in a meal. Unlike other protein sources, Sattu is easier to digest and suits the elderly too.
  2. Sprouted Pulses: The germinated pulses such as mung, kidney beans, black eyed beans, chana, chickpeas, etc. have more magnesium, protein, folate, minerals, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, manganese and phosphorus as compared to non-sprouted varieties. So increase the consumption of sprouts as it will give better nutrients in the same amount. You can make a fresh batch of sprouts daily and have a small cup with lunch and the same for dinner to enrich your meals with protein. Though you can store the sprouted pulses for 3 days in the fridge using a sealed container. Trying a variety of recipes on a daily basis like aloo-sprouts paratha, sprouts stuffed sandwich, sprouts salad, sprouts soup, etc. will also help.
  3. Paneer: is another amazing, well known source of protein for vegetarians. It is rich in healthy fats, protein and low in carbs. In a controlled portion size, it’s great for diabetics, weight watchers and almost everyone. Try to incorporate paneer in your regular meals like post workout meals, sandwiches, curries, grilled paneer with veggies for meals, etc.
  4. Nuts & Seeds: have an impressive number of protein and healthy fats in a single serving. It’s a great idea to add these to your mid-meal and snack time. Walnuts, hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, etc. are concentrated sources of protein and healthy fats. About 2 tablespoon of them per day can help you in more ways than one.
  5. Hung Curd: is nothing but our homemade curd which has drained off its water. Make curd using low-fat milk or cow milk, tie it in a muslin cloth and hang it for 3-4 hours for all the excess water to be drained. 1 cup of homemade hung curd provides 10-12 grams of protein. It is great for digestion and also for meeting calcium requirements. You can use it for dips, raita, salad dressings or just a plain cup of hung curd with meals.

We hope these food sources of protein for vegetarians helps you! Before you add any of these foods to your diet, please consult your doctor, nutritionist or dietitian.

How do you fill in your daily protein requirement? Let us know in the comments below. For more on proteins, you can check out Healthy Reads or ask a GOQii Coach by subscribing for Personalised Health Coaching here.

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GOQii NutriGenius AI: Revolutionizing Healthy Living with Smart Calorie Counting and Food Recognition

When it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, keeping track of what you eat is essential. However, traditional methods of food logging can be tedious, time-consuming, and often inaccurate, leading many to abandon the practice altogether.

Enter GOQii NutriGenius AI, a groundbreaking feature that simplifies food tracking through the power of advanced technology. By combining computer vision and machine learning, NutriGenius AI makes logging your meals as easy as taking a photo. After using it for a week, I can confidently say this innovation is a significant leap forward in wellness technology. Here’s why NutriGenius AI is not just convenient but truly transformative.

The Challenges of Traditional Food Tracking

Manually logging meals typically involves searching extensive food databases, estimating portion sizes, and inputting data—a process that is both cumbersome and prone to errors. This complexity often discourages consistent use, despite the importance of understanding one’s dietary habits for better health management.

Recognizing these challenges, GOQii developed NutriGenius AI to streamline the process, making it more user-friendly and accurate.

How NutriGenius AI Transforms Food Logging

Imagine sitting down to a meal, snapping a quick photo with your phone, and instantly receiving a detailed breakdown of the nutritional content. NutriGenius AI utilizes sophisticated computer vision and machine learning algorithms to identify food items on your plate and calculate their nutritional values with remarkable accuracy.

During my trial, I photographed various meals, and each time, NutriGenius AI promptly recognized the items and provided comprehensive nutritional information. This seamless experience felt almost magical and significantly reduced the effort required for food tracking.

Key Benefits of NutriGenius AI

  1. Eliminates Guesswork
    With an accuracy rate exceeding 90%, NutriGenius AI removes the uncertainty from portion estimation and food identification, ensuring reliable data for your dietary records.
  1. Facilitates Mindful Eating
    Access to real-time nutritional information empowers you to make informed dietary choices effortlessly, promoting healthier eating habits without the need for restrictive diets.
  1. Encourages Consistency
    The simplicity of photographing your meals makes it easy to maintain a consistent food log, even for snacks, fostering better long-term dietary awareness.
  1. Saves Time
    Transforming a traditionally time-consuming task into a quick, three-second action allows you to integrate food tracking seamlessly into your daily routine.

User Experience with NutriGenius AI

The GOQii app is designed with user-friendliness in mind, and NutriGenius AI enhances this experience by providing valuable insights into your eating patterns. For instance, I discovered that my lunches were higher in carbohydrates than anticipated, while my breakfasts lacked sufficient protein. These revelations enabled me to adjust my diet accordingly, making NutriGenius AI feel like a personal nutrition coach.

A New Era in Health and Wellness

NutriGenius AI represents a significant advancement in how we approach health. By removing the obstacles associated with traditional food logging, GOQii empowers individuals to take control of their wellness journeys. This tool is not merely about counting calories; it’s about fostering awareness and facilitating informed decisions.

Its seamless integration into busy lifestyles makes it accessible for professionals, parents, and anyone aiming to improve their health without added stress.

The Future of Health Technology

The development of NutriGenius AI involved collaboration with leading technologies to achieve optimal accuracy. By combining multiple models and continuously refining the system with user data, NutriGenius AI is designed to become increasingly precise over time.

This approach exemplifies how integrating various technological solutions can lead to innovative advancements in health and wellness. NutriGenius AI is a testament to GOQii’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance user experience and promote preventive healthcare.

NutriGenius AI is more than just a convenient feature; it’s a transformative tool that simplifies food tracking and promotes healthier living. By integrating advanced technologies and focusing on user-friendly design, GOQii has set a new standard in wellness tech. This innovation not only addresses the challenges of traditional food logging but also paves the way for future developments in health technology.

GOQii NutriGenius AI is a game-changer for anyone striving to lead a healthier life. With its advanced AI-powered food recognition and seamless integration, it transforms the way we approach nutrition and calorie tracking. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent, or someone looking to improve your diet, NutriGenius AI offers a smarter, easier way to take charge of your wellness journey.

Experience the future of health tracking—download the GOQii app today and take the first step toward a healthier you!

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From Terminal Illness To Complete Wellness! Ananda Mukherjee Health Story

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