Magazine Article Review: Eating Season: And if You're on a GLP-1 Medication Holiday Feasts Might Mean more Side Effects

 Eating Season: And if You're on a GLP-1 Medication Holiday Feasts Might Mean more Side Effects, Karen Ansel, M.S., R.D.N., Prevention, November 2025, pp 48-55, Hearst Magazine International, New York.

I have been taking an injectable for diabetes for about ten years nw, starting with Victoza when I still lived in San Jose.  Due to insurance I was switched to Trulicity.  Now for the past few months I have been taking Monjauro.  Victoza was a daily shot while Trulicity and Monjaro are weekly.  This article talks about how to prevent or lessen side effects, particularly heartburn and upset stomach.  \However long-term use of the medication is sketchy.  This is due to the cost of the medication, but also the side effects, particularly nausea and vomiting.

They give seven ideas: 1. Eat smaller but more frequesnt meals.  Because the digestive system is slowed, food stays in the digestive system for a longer time.  This can result in nausea, bloating, heartburn and stomach pain.  Three mini meals and two snacks is recommended.  However they must be packed with nutrition as you eat less overall.  2. Prioritize protein.  Proteins supply the enzymes your body needs.  It is important to eat proteins first in your meal so you get them before you fill up.  Exanples are almonds, an egg, nut butter, cooked chickpeas, lentils or beans, lean beef, portk or chicken, fich or shrimp.  Low-fat dairy can also provide protein. 3. Go lighter on fat.  Eating too much fat can slow down digestion and lead to heartburn.  However healthy fats should not be avoided, such as avocado, olive or canola oil, peanut and almond butter, nuts and seeds.  Meat that is grilled or broiled is better than deep fried.  4. Consider other Gut issues.  Some food may especially cause problems.  For example chili powder or Cajun spices may be an issues.  Garlic and curry may also cause problems.  Some vegetables may cause gas or bloating.  With this regards best to experiment and see what does or doesn't work for you.  5.  Don't cut all carbs.  Carbs are an important energy source.  Especially good to include high fiber foods.  Avoid sugary sodas and lemonades.  6.  Be strategic with fiber.  Fiber digests more slowly so can help prevent sugar spikes.  It can also keep the digestive flow regular.  for some people it can cause diahrea so should be eaen carefully.  8. Drink up.  Water intake is important, expecially if you are eating lots of fiber.  With GLP-1s dfrinking lots of water is vital.  two to three liters of water a day are recommended, that is 80 to 100 ounces.