How to Overcome Nausea with Semaglutide: The Ultimate Guide

Welcome to “The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Nausea with Semaglutide.” In the vast landscape of health and well-being, understanding how to manage common issues such as nausea is paramount. As your pharmacist guide in this exploration, I’m excited to share insights and strategies to help you effectively tackle and triumph over nausea with semaglutide. Remember, your health is a priority, and this guide is here to help you on your path to feeling your best. Let’s kickstart the journey toward a nausea-free, well-balanced life! Not a fan of reading lengthy articles? Sign up below to get your FREE one-page guide to managing nausea with semaglutide! This document is a small yet essential part of my new ebook, “How to Be Successful With Semaglutide: A Pharmacist’s Guide,” designed to help patients succeed with semaglutide therapy.

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Semaglutide Overview

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that is branded as Ozempic, for Type II Diabetes, and as Wegovy, for medical weight loss. Ozempic works by helping your pancreas produce insulin when your blood sugar is high, helps prevent your liver from making and releasing too much sugar, and slows down food leaving your stomach increasing the feeling of fullness. The mechanism in which Wegovy works is the same, but ultimately leading to a decrease appetite and weight loss. Wegovy clinical studies have shown that 44% of adult patients experienced nausea, compared to only 16% in the comparable group who received no medication¹. Ozempic studies also showed a significant increase in nausea, with higher rates of 20% in the higher dose group compared to only 6% in the group who received no medication². Nausea on initiation and dose titration of semaglutide has been one of the leading causes of non-compliance and abrupt discontinuation of the medication. In this article we discuss remedies to aid in the nausea associated with semaglutide therapy.

Mindful Eating

Yes, I repeat, mindful eating! Improving your eating habits is one of the most powerful tools for success with your semaglutide therapy, as identified by a multidisciplinary expert consensus.³ So what is this really? Mindful eating is paying full attention to the experience of eating and drinking, both internally and externally. It emphasizes being present in the moment and engaging all the senses while consuming food. Key mindful eating steps to aid in lessening nausea with semaglutide include:

• Eat slowly
• Eat smaller portions
• Do not lay down after a meal
• Be aware of your hunger and fullness cues (stop eating when satisfied)
• Consider increasing meal frequency to avoid over eating
• No straws
• No distractions while eating
• Less strenuous activity after a meal
• No late meals or meals at bedtime

Other eating tips to consider is the composition of your food. Avoid spicy, high fat, sugar loaded, canned, or greasy meals. Stick to baked, boiled or griddle made food items. Hydrate with with water and not soda or carbonated drinks (we discuss this more below). A food journal is a great resource to aid in mindful eating and a bonus resource in my eBook “What You Must Know About Weight Loss Medications.” The book can be purchased directly from my website and downloaded immediately upon purchase.

Ginger’s Nausea-Nixing Magic

Ginger, often praised for its culinary allure, holds an additional accolade in the realm of wellness—it’s a potent ally in addressing nausea with semaglutide and reducing the frequency of vomiting. The magic lies in ginger’s bioactive compounds, particularly gingerol, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. When it comes to nausea, ginger works wonders by calming the stomach and easing digestive distress. Its ability to neutralize stomach acids and relax the gastrointestinal muscles contributes to a soothing effect, making it a go-to remedy for various types of nausea, including motion sickness and morning sickness. Furthermore, research suggests that ginger can be particularly effective in curbing nausea induced by medical treatments like chemotherapy⁴. So, whether you’re grappling with an upset stomach or seeking relief from nausea-related challenges, ginger might just be the natural remedy you’ve been looking for. This can be taken 30 minutes after administration of your semaglutide therapy.

Helpful Recipes with Ginger

• Fresh Ginger Tea
• Carrot Ginger Soup
• Fried Rice with Ginger
• Ginger Lemonade
• Tumeric & Ginger Tea Bags on Amazon (*affiliate link*)
• TRY MY MOCKTAIL RECIPE

Peppermint’s Cooling Comfort for Nausea with Semaglutide

Join the journey of discovery into peppermint’s soothing embrace. Peppermint is renowned for its ability to alleviate nausea and reduce the urge to vomit. The menthol in peppermint helps soothe the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, easing the discomfort associated with nausea. Inhaling the invigorating scent of peppermint may also have a calming effect on the stomach. This aromatic herb is particularly useful in addressing nausea caused by various factors, including indigestion, travel, or pregnancy. Additionally, peppermint’s anti-inflammatory properties contribute to its overall digestive benefits. A study⁵ using peppermint oil aromatherapy found it to be an effective independent or complementary modality for relief of nausea and vomiting in hospitalized patients. So, whether you prefer sipping on peppermint tea or enjoying its essence as an aromatherapy, incorporating this natural remedy into your routine may offer a cool and comforting solution to nausea and vomiting concerns. Again, it is recommended to take this 30 minutes after administration of your semaglutide therapy.

Helpful Recipes with Peppermint

• How to Make Peppermint Tea 5 Different Ways
• Peppermint Tea Bags on Amazon (*affiliate link*)
• TRY MY MOCKTAIL RECIPE

Hydration Heals Nausea

Hydration is a key pillar of well-being, helping to ease nausea from semaglutide and reduce the chances of vomiting. Staying adequately hydrated supports the body’s natural processes, promoting optimal digestion and reducing the likelihood of nausea. When faced with an upset stomach, sipping on water or clear fluids can be remarkably soothing, helping to dilute stomach acids and calm the digestive system. The key to the process is SMALL SIPs, not too much water at one time. Dehydration can exacerbate feelings of nausea, making it crucial to replenish fluids regularly. Additionally, adequate hydration can play a pivotal role in minimizing the severity and frequency of vomiting episodes. So, consider your water bottle a valuable ally in the battle against nausea, as it contributes to your overall health and aids in creating a more balanced, well-hydrated you. See my number one recommended below and its usually less than $10.

The BRAT Diet: A Gentle Approach to Easing Nausea with Semaglutide

Lean into the soothing embrace of the BRAT diet—a gentle and effective strategy for alleviating nausea with semaglutide and taming the waves of vomiting. Comprising bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, this diet is designed to provide easily digestible and bland foods that are gentle on the stomach. Bananas offer potassium to restore electrolyte balance, rice provides a binding effect to help solidify stools, applesauce contributes a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the senses, and toast provides a mild, starchy base. Together, these components create a comforting combination that aids in settling the stomach and reducing the urge to vomit. The BRAT diet is particularly beneficial during episodes of nausea, stomach flu, or recovery from gastrointestinal issues, offering a bland yet nourishing approach to help you bounce back to balance. Find a sample menu below incorporating options when on the BRAT diet. If you find the BRAT diet less effective, elevate your dietary approach with a “bland diet.” This comprehensive strategy minimizes the workload on your gastrointestinal system for enhanced relief and comfort⁶. While the BRAT diet can be helpful in easing digestive discomfort, it’s important to remember that it lacks certain nutrients like protein and healthy fats. It’s best to use the BRAT/Bland diet as a temporary measure (i.e. dose initiation or increase) and gradually reintroduce a more balanced diet as your symptoms improve. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Vitamin B6 Bliss for Nausea with Semaglutide

Vitamin B6 is a powerhouse nutrient that holds the key to soothing nausea with semaglutide and easing the discomfort of vomiting. This essential vitamin plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including the regulation of neurotransmitters that influence nausea. Vitamin B6 has emerged as a go-to treatment for nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, providing expectant mothers with a natural and safe solution. There have been numerous randomized controlled studies to support this. A recent review of published literature supports this by finding supplementation of Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) alone as well as with an active ingredient demonstrated beneficial effects for women suffering from nausea and vomiting in pregnancy⁷. Its effectiveness extends beyond pregnancy, offering comfort in various situations that trigger nausea. By supporting the body’s ability to process amino acids and neurotransmitters, Vitamin B6 becomes a valuable ally in the quest for digestive well-being. Whether sourced from foods rich in B6 or through supplements, integrating this vitamin into your routine may be a key step towards a calmer, nausea-free existence. Keep in mind, Vitamin B6 takes a little longer for absorption and to get to adequate levels in the body. Please consult with your physician to ensure it is safe with your current medications and conditions. If you prefer not taking a supplement, here is an article that list food sources of vitamin B6–> NIH.

Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. It is essential for the metabolism of amino acids, the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, and the formation of red blood cells. Vitamin B6 supports immune function, helps maintain normal brain development, and aids in the conversion of food into energy. You can find this in most grocery and retail pharmacy chains, as well as on AMAZON (*affiliate link*).

Directions for Use – Nausea With Semaglutide

As we conclude our exploration, we’ve learned how incorporating mindful eating and natural remedies can help manage nausea with semaglutide. From ginger and peppermint tea to the BRAT diet, these gentle remedies offer valuable support. Don’t underestimate the hydrating benefits of water and the therapeutic potential of Vitamin B6. With these natural interventions, we have a variety of options to alleviate discomfort. While much of the evidence isn’t specifically tailored to semaglutide-induced nausea, these remedies remain beneficial.

My recommendation: Start taking vitamin B6 daily as soon as possible before beginning therapy. Drink either ginger or mint tea (or try my custom MOCKTAIL), whichever you prefer, 30 minutes after your injection. Incorporate mindful eating habits and be aware of your food composition daily. On days when nausea is more intense or during weeks when you need to titrate (increase) your dose, consider bland or BRAT diet options. *Important: If you cannot tolerate dose escalation (an increase after the 4-week period), you may request delaying dose escalation for 4-weeks. However, if you cannot tolerate the maintenance dose, discontinuation is recommended (Wegovy only).

Please note individual responses may vary, thus consulting a healthcare professional is advisable if vomiting persists beyond 24 hours or is accompanied by concerning symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, dehydration, high fever, or indications of blood in vomit. Also, always consult your physician or pharmacist before starting new medications to ensure no interactions with current conditions you have or medications you may be taking.

PSST… Exciting news! My new eBook, “How to Be Successful With Semaglutide: A Pharmacist’s Guide,” is AVAILABLE NOW. Written by a pharmacist, this guide is packed with tips to help you stay on track and maximize results with your therapy. Click below to see what’s inside!

What has been the biggest challenge you face with semaglutide therapy? Feel free to share and comment, we love to hear from our readers!

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References

1. Wegovy [package insert]. Plainsboro, NJ: Novo Nordisk A/S.; 2024. ↩︎
2. Ozempic [package insert]. Plainsboro, NJ: Novo Nordisk A/S.; 2023 ↩︎
3. Gorgojo-Martínez, J.J.; Mezquita-Raya, P.; Carretero-Gómez, J.; Castro, A.; Cebrián-Cuenca, A.; de Torres-Sánchez, A.; García-de-Lucas, M.D.; Núñez, J.; Obaya, J.C.; Soler, M.J.; et al. Clinical Recommendations to Manage Gastrointestinal Adverse Events in Patients Treated with Glp-1 Receptor Agonists: A Multidisciplinary Expert Consensus. J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12,145. https://doi.org/10.3390/ jcm12010145. ↩︎
4. Lete I, Allué J. The Effectiveness of Ginger in the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting during Pregnancy and Chemotherapy. Integr Med Insights. 2016 Mar 31;11:11-7. doi: 10.4137/IMI.S36273. PMID: 27053918; PMCID: PMC4818021. ↩︎
5. Mohr C, Jensen C, Padden N, Besel JM, Brant JM. Peppermint Essential Oil for Nausea and Vomiting in Hospitalized Patients: Incorporating Holistic Patient Decision Making Into the Research Design. J Holist Nurs. 2021 Jun;39(2):126-134. doi: 10.1177/0898010120961579. Epub 2020 Sep 27. Erratum in: J Holist Nurs. 2022 Sep;40(3):NP1-NP5. PMID: 32985338. ↩︎
6. Weir SBS, Akhondi H. Bland Diet. [Updated 2023 Jul 25]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538142/
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7. Jayawardena R, Majeed S, Sooriyaarachchi P, Abeywarne U, Ranaweera P. The effects of pyridoxine (vitamin B6) supplementation in nausea and vomiting during pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2023 Oct;308(4):1075-1084. doi: 10.1007/s00404-023-06925-w. Epub 2023 Jan 31. PMID: 36719452. ↩︎

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