GLP-1s and Hydration: A Crucial Connection

GLP-1 agonists, or glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists, are a class of medications that mimic the action of the naturally occurring GLP-1 hormone in our bodies. I have previously written about various medications within this class. The most common side effects of the various GLP-1 medications are gastrointestinal, specifically nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. The side effects can worsen with increases in dosage. Because GLP-1 decreases appetite, there may be a reduction in food and fluid intake when taking these medications. 

If you are unfortunate enough also to experience vomiting or diarrhea, this can cause or worsen dehydration. Unfortunately, GLP-1 medications slow down the digestive system, which can increase nausea and vomiting and worsen dehydration. This dehydration and slowing of the digestive system can eventually lead to constipation. Also, some people find that GLP-1 medications suppress their water intake, or drinking plain water increases nausea, even when food intake does not cause severe side effects. 

Signs of Dehydration: Recognizing the Symptoms

Before reviewing what to do if you are becoming dehydrated, let’s talk about recognizing the symptoms and signs of dehydration. The first symptom is thirst, or your mouth, tongue, and lips feeling dry. If you notice that you are not urinating as much or as often as usual. Or if you notice your urine is not clear and darker than the color of lemonade and light beer, this can indicate dehydration. Some symptoms are less specific, but you may notice increased tiredness, fatigue, irritability, headache, lightheadedness, dizziness, or muscle cramps, especially if these are relieved when you take in water. You may notice your skin is dry and does not have the elasticity it usually does.

Drinking Enough: Tips for Increasing Water Intake

There are numerous strategies to help maximize water intake, even when struggling with side effects. There is no “one size fits all” strategy that works; you must find the tactics that work best for you. Some people like to set a goal each day to drink a specific amount of water, and they do this by filling up a specific-sized water jug two or three times each day. However, this does not consider that fluid intake requirements fluctuate based on your activity level, the air temperature around you, other foods you are eating, and many other factors. So, this may be a good starting point, but you should still look and listen to what your body is telling you.

Many people now carry reusable water bottles or insulated water tumblers with them. This can help by always having water accessible. And, if you are experiencing nausea, it is often easier to drink small sips from a straw than directly from the lip of a cup. Some individuals set reminders to drink water throughout the day, either on their phones or on their smartwatches. For folks who struggle with drinking plain water, there are a variety of options. There are flavorings that can be added that are sugar-free, which can be powder or liquid. If you wish to avoid synthetic ingredients, you can cut up fruits or vegetables and place them in an infuser to leave in your water and enjoy the natural flavors. Many people enjoy sliced lemons, cucumbers, mint, and many other options.

If you find it very difficult to drink your water due to illness or side effects, remember that many foods have water in them. You should maximize your intake of these options if you cannot drink water. Of course, fruits and vegetables are some obvious choices, like watermelon and cucumbers. But, also, if you can tolerate soup with a water base or herbal teas that are non-caffeinated, you will be taking in water. If you cannot tolerate any liquids or foods containing liquids, then you are at risk of becoming seriously dehydrated. You should consult your healthcare provider on how to manage this situation.

Hydration and GLP-1 Success: Maximizing Your Results

Staying hydrated is necessary not only for your body to function as intended and stay healthy but also for your GLP-1 medication to work properly and to lose weight when taking these medications. Staying hydrated by drinking enough water for your body has many benefits, including helping you to reduce your calorie intake, increasing your metabolism, improving your exercise performance by reducing muscle fatigue, helping your body break down fat, and helping keep your digestive tract working correctly. Taking GLP-1 medication without ensuring that your body has the fluids it needs is like trying to run your race car without putting the gas in your engine.