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DEEP DIVE ARTICLE GLP1 WEIGHT LOSS

Supplements to Take When Starting GLP-1 (UK Starter Stack That Actually Helps)

Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you choose to buy through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend supplements I’ve personally used or researched in depth. This content is based on lived experience and is not medical advice.

Last updated: I update this guide as my GLP-1 (Mounjaro) experience evolves and as I learn what actually helps in real life (not just what sounds good on a label).

If you’ve just started a GLP-1 medication like Mounjaro, Wegovy, or Ozempic and you’re thinking “what supplements should I actually take?” — this is your calm, UK-focused starting point.

I’m using GLP-1 medication myself (Mounjaro) and documenting what genuinely helped me stay consistent through the early weeks — especially with hydration, digestion, fatigue, appetite changes, and micronutrient coverage. This isn’t a hype-filled supplement list. It’s a simple starter stack designed to reduce friction, not add to it.

How this page is structured: I’ll give you the simplest “start here” stack first, then point you to deeper, symptom-specific guides if you need them.

Jump to what you need

Quick answer

If you’re starting GLP-1 medication in the UK, the most useful supplements focus on hydration, digestion, protein support, and essential micronutrients. These can help manage common early side effects like fatigue, bloating, constipation, and low energy. This starter stack is based on what helped me personally while using Mounjaro, without medical claims or supplement overload.

Key takeaways

  • Start with one thing: most people do best beginning with hydration support (electrolytes).
  • Add only if needed: digestion support if you feel overly full/bloated, a multivitamin if intake drops.
  • Protein is a priority: not as a trend — as a practical guardrail when appetite changes.
  • Avoid fat burners & stimulant-heavy stacks: they tend to increase side effects and make GLP-1 harder, not easier.
  • Symptom-specific matters: if you have one dominant issue (constipation, nausea, reflux), use the dedicated guide for that.

What a GLP-1 “starter stack” is (and what it isn’t)

A GLP-1 starter supplement stack is a small set of basics that supports the most common early issues: hydration dips, slower digestion, reduced food intake, and low energy. It’s not a shortcut, a fat burner plan, or a “more is better” routine.

If you want a wider menu of UK-friendly options and brand guides, start here:
Best Health Supplements Hub ·
Lily & Loaf brand guide

Why GLP-1 changes supplement needs

Most supplement advice online assumes you’re eating “normally.” GLP-1 changes that reality. In practical terms, this is why people often feel different on GLP-1 compared to non-GLP-1 weight loss:

  • Slower gastric emptying: meals can sit heavier, and digestion comfort becomes a real factor.
  • Lower volume eating: it’s easier to accidentally under-eat key micronutrients.
  • Thirst signals can be quieter: hydration slips before you realise it.
  • Fatigue feels “different”: sometimes it’s food intake, sometimes hydration, sometimes just the adjustment phase.

Decision flow (choose the simplest next step)

  • If you feel tired, headachy, or “flat”: start with hydration + electrolytes.
  • If meals feel heavy, you’re bloated, or digestion feels slow: add gentle digestive support.
  • If your portions have shrunk a lot: consider a basic multivitamin for coverage.
  • If you’re worried about muscle loss: prioritise protein first (food), then add support if needed.
  • If you’re overwhelmed: start with one supplement only and give it 7–14 days.

My GLP-1 starter stack (UK)

Credibility note: I’m actively using GLP-1 (Mounjaro) and I’ve published symptom-specific guides based on what actually helped me. If you want to go deeper immediately, you can jump to: Related reading.

1) Hydration + electrolytes (the first thing I added)

In my first week on Mounjaro, hydration mattered more than anything else. Appetite dropped fast, and drinking enough became surprisingly easy to forget. Electrolytes helped me feel steadier, especially on low-calorie days, and supported energy without chasing stimulants.

Browse options:
Best Health Supplements Hub ·
Lily & Loaf guide

If you’re looking for a discount, voucher, promo code, code, first order saving, or bundle savings, use the canonical page here:
Lily & Loaf discount code ALAN10

2) Digestive support (when things slow down)

GLP-1 slows gastric emptying — that’s part of how it works. For me, that meant fullness and bloating early on. Gentle digestive support helped meals feel more comfortable without “forcing” anything. If your main issue is digestion symptoms, you’ll get more value from the specialist guides linked below.

3) Multivitamin (simple coverage when intake drops)

When portions shrink, micronutrients can shrink too. A basic multivitamin is nutritional insurance while your eating patterns settle. This isn’t about perfection — it’s about reducing gaps while you’re adjusting.

4) Protein support (optional, but often useful)

Protein is one of the easiest things to under-eat on GLP-1 because appetite changes are real. I used protein support as a practical back-up on low-appetite days, not as a daily obsession. If you’re worried about muscle loss, pair this with the dedicated muscle-loss guide linked below.

Quick comparison table (who each option is for)

What you’re feeling Start with Why it helps
Fatigue, headaches, “flat” days Electrolytes + hydration Supports fluid balance when intake dips
Bloating, heavy meals, slow digestion Gentle digestive support Improves comfort with slower digestion
Low intake / inconsistent meals Basic multivitamin Simple micronutrient coverage
Worried about muscle loss Protein first (then support) Helps protect lean mass during weight loss

If you only do one thing

If you only do one thing when starting GLP-1, make hydration boringly consistent before you buy anything else. Many early “GLP-1 problems” feel dramatically easier once fluids and electrolytes are steady.

Common beginner mistakes (I made at least one of these)

  • Stacking too many supplements at once: if you change five things, you can’t tell what helped (or what caused trouble).
  • Using caffeine to “fix” fatigue: sometimes the real fix is hydration + electrolytes + enough protein.
  • Going hard on fibre too early: if your digestion is slow, aggressive fibre can make bloating worse.
  • Copying influencer stacks that aren’t GLP-1-aware: GLP-1 changes digestion and appetite; your needs aren’t the same.
  • Assuming supplements replace food: they’re support tools, not a nutritional substitute.

Who this starter stack is NOT for

  • If you feel stable and you’re eating well: you may not need supplements beyond basic hydration habits.
  • If you want “faster weight loss”: this guide is about comfort, consistency, and avoiding common pitfalls.
  • If you’re expecting a miracle fix: supplements should reduce friction, not create results on their own.
  • If you have complex medical needs: speak to a clinician or pharmacist before adding anything new.

Week-by-week reality check (what it actually felt like for me)

  • Week 1: appetite shift + hydration becomes easier to forget than you’d expect.
  • Week 2: digestion can slow; fullness and bloating become the dominant “annoyance” for some people.
  • Week 3–4: routines matter more than products; consistency beats experimentation.
  • Month 2+: if you chose the right basics, supplements fade into the background and you just feel steadier.

Common questions about supplements on GLP-1 (quick answers)

What supplements should I take when starting GLP-1?
When starting GLP-1 medication, the most useful supplements focus on hydration, digestion, and basic micronutrient support. Electrolytes help with early fatigue, digestive support can ease uncomfortable fullness, and a simple multivitamin covers reduced food intake. Start with one supplement and add only if needed.

Should I take electrolytes on GLP-1?
Electrolytes can be helpful on GLP-1, particularly in the first week. Appetite changes often reduce fluid intake, which can contribute to headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Electrolytes support hydration and steadiness without relying on stimulants or “energy hacks.”

What supplements should I avoid on GLP-1?
It’s usually best to avoid fat burners, appetite suppressants, and stimulant-heavy supplements on GLP-1. These often increase side effects and can work against the goal of feeling stable. Support basics first: hydration, digestion comfort, protein habits, and simple micronutrient coverage.

Can GLP-1 cause nutrient deficiencies?
GLP-1 itself doesn’t directly cause deficiencies, but reduced food intake can increase the risk over time. That’s why hydration, protein, and basic micronutrient coverage are often discussed. If you’re concerned, speak to a clinician and review your intake calmly.

What I would not do on GLP-1

  • Don’t start 5–6 supplements at once (you won’t know what helped or what caused issues).
  • Don’t chase fat burners or appetite suppressants (GLP-1 already changes appetite).
  • Don’t ignore hydration just because you’re not hungry.
  • Don’t assume more supplements = better results.

Timeline: what to expect

  • First 3 days: appetite shifts, hydration matters most, keep it simple.
  • First 2 weeks: digestion and energy support become more relevant.
  • 30 days: routines stabilise; supplements feel “background helpful” if you actually need them.

Objections, side effects, and safety checks

Cost: Start with one supplement (usually hydration support) and only add more if symptoms persist.

Side effects: Supplements should reduce friction. If something makes symptoms worse, stop and reassess.

When to stop: If you feel worse after starting a supplement, pause it and review what changed. Reintroduce later only if you’re confident it helps.

Interactions: If you have medical conditions, are pregnant/breastfeeding, or take other medications, speak to a clinician or pharmacist before adding supplements.

Why I like Lily & Loaf for GLP-1 users (and how this helps you beat decision fatigue)

When you’re on GLP-1, the goal isn’t “the most supplements.” It’s the fewest things that make you feel stable. I like Lily & Loaf for this kind of approach because it’s easier to build a calm, simple routine without falling into stimulant-heavy, hype-driven formulas.

Start with the guide here (then browse options calmly):
Lily & Loaf brand guide

Next steps (and the official discount page)

If you want the full set of UK-friendly options and product guides, go here first:
Best Health Supplements Hub

If you’re searching for a discount, voucher, promo, code, first order saving, or bundle savings, use this canonical page (ALAN10):
Lily & Loaf discount code ALAN10

FAQs

Do you need supplements on GLP-1?
Not everyone needs supplements on GLP-1, but many people find them helpful in the first few weeks. Appetite reduction and slower digestion can affect hydration, energy, and nutrient intake. Supplements should support comfort and consistency, not replace real food or medical advice.

What vitamins are best to take on GLP-1?
The best vitamins on GLP-1 are typically simple coverage options, like a basic multivitamin. This can help reduce nutrient gaps when portions shrink, especially during the early adjustment phase, without turning your routine into a complicated “stack.”

Should I take electrolytes on GLP-1?
Electrolytes can be helpful on GLP-1, particularly early on when appetite changes reduce fluid intake. Many people notice headaches, fatigue, or lightheadedness improve when hydration becomes more consistent. Keep it simple and treat it as hydration support, not a performance hack.

Are supplements safe to take with GLP-1 medication?
Many basic supplements are safe for many people, but individual situations vary. If you have medical conditions, take prescriptions, or have a history of sensitivities, speak to a clinician or pharmacist before adding supplements. Avoid stimulant-heavy products as a default.

Can supplements interfere with GLP-1 medication?
Basic hydration, vitamin, and digestion support typically doesn’t interfere with GLP-1 medication’s intended effects. However, supplements can still affect you personally (stomach upset, sensitivity, timing issues). If anything worsens symptoms, stop and reassess.

When should I start supplements on GLP-1?
Many people start with hydration support in week one, then add digestion or micronutrient coverage if symptoms appear. The best time to start is when you notice a repeat issue — fatigue, bloating, or very low intake — rather than stacking everything pre-emptively.

How long do supplements take to work on GLP-1?
Some supplements (like electrolytes) can help within a few days, while digestion or energy support may take one to two weeks. They usually work best alongside consistent hydration, protein intake, and a repeatable routine rather than “random good days.”

Can GLP-1 cause nutrient deficiencies?
GLP-1 doesn’t directly cause deficiencies, but reduced food intake can increase the risk over time. This is why it helps to keep an eye on hydration, protein, and basic micronutrient coverage. If you’re concerned, check in with a clinician and review your intake calmly.

What supplements should I avoid on GLP-1?
It’s usually best to avoid fat burners, appetite suppressants, and stimulant-heavy supplements on GLP-1. These often increase side effects and work against the goal of feeling stable. Support basics first: hydration, digestion comfort, and simple coverage.

Is this medical advice?
No. This is based on lived experience and general information. Always check with a clinician or pharmacist if you have medical conditions, take medications, are pregnant/breastfeeding, or have concerns about interactions.

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Categories
GLP1 WEIGHT LOSS

GLP-1 Side Effects Guide : Nausea, Constipation, Fatigue & What Actually Helps

If you’re on GLP‑1 medication (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro / tirzepatide), chances are the medication is doing its job — your appetite is down, portions are smaller, and weight loss is happening.

But the side effects can feel like a tax you didn’t agree to pay.

This guide is designed to be a practical troubleshooting page you can come back to weekly. It’s built around real‑world experience (including my own), and evidence-led principles.

Quick links :

– GLP‑1 medication access (UK): https://www.alanspicer.com/mounjaro

– Daily support supplements (fibre + protein + gut support): https://www.alanspicer.com/lilyandloaf

Anchor guides:

– MedExpress + Mounjaro (full guide): https://alanspicer.com/medexpress-weight-loss-review-mounjaro-guide/

– Lily & Loaf Daily Essentials (full guide): https://alanspicer.com/daily-essentials-the-best-supplements-for-sustained-weight-loss-on-glp-1s-by-lilyloaf-2026-guide/

TL;DR: why GLP‑1 side effects happen

Most GLP‑1 side effects come from three things:

  • Slower gastric emptying (food sits longer)
  • Lower overall food + fluid intake (you simply consume less)
  • Dose escalation (your body adapts over time)

The goal isn’t to “power through”. The goal is to build a routine that makes side effects less frequent and less intense.

Real‑world authority (why I’m writing this)

In 2025 I lost over 6 stone (86lbs) using Mounjaro, and I’ve personally dealt with most common GLP‑1 issues: nausea, constipation, fatigue, dehydration signals, appetite swings, and the practical weirdness of learning how to eat again.

I documented it publicly as a near‑daily video diary: https://www.youtube.com/@AlanSpicerisLosingIt

The “GLP‑1 Side Effects Matrix” (use this first)

Symptom Most common cause First fix (fastest win) If it keeps happening
Nausea Dose increase, eating too fast, high-fat meals Smaller meals + slower eating Adjust meal timing; speak to clinician
Constipation Less fibre + less water + slower motility Hydration + fibre + gentle movement Review diet; consider daily support stack
Fatigue Low calories, dehydration, low electrolytes Fluids + salt/electrolytes + protein Check intake; discuss labs with clinician
Bloating / reflux Large meals, spicy/fatty foods, late eating Smaller meals, earlier dinner Review triggers; clinician advice
Diarrhoea Dose escalation, food choices, sensitivity Simple meals; avoid heavy fat Clinician advice if persistent

1) Nausea on GLP‑1s

What it feels like

  • Background nausea even when you haven’t eaten
  • Nausea after “normal” meals that used to be fine
  • Nausea that spikes after injection days

What triggers it most

  • Eating quickly
  • Fatty meals (especially fried foods)
  • Large portions (even if they’re “healthy”)
  • Skipping food all day then eating a big dinner

Practical fixes that work

  • Eat smaller meals more often
  • Keep meals bland and protein-first
  • Don’t eat within 2–3 hours of bed
  • Slow down: put the fork down between bites

Related reading: – What to eat on Mounjaro (protein-first): (support post to be added)

2) Constipation on GLP‑1s

Constipation is the side effect that quietly breaks people.

Not because it’s dramatic — but because it turns every day into a low-level struggle.

Why it happens

  • You’re eating less food overall
  • You’re often eating less fibre
  • You’re drinking less without noticing
  • Motility slows due to GLP‑1 action

The “3-part constipation fix”

Part 1: hydration (non-negotiable) – Sip regularly, not just at meals

Part 2: fibre (food first, then support) – Aim for consistent daily fibre, not bursts

Part 3: movement – Gentle daily walking helps motility more than people think

If you need a low-friction daily baseline, this is where the Daily Essentials approach can help: https://www.alanspicer.com/lilyandloaf

3) Fatigue on GLP‑1s

GLP‑1 fatigue is often not “sleep tired”. It’s a flat, foggy feeling.

Common causes

  • You’re under-eating protein
  • You’re unintentionally dehydrated
  • Electrolytes are low (especially if you’re eating very little)

Practical fixes

  • Protein-first meals (even if small)
  • Hydration targets and routine
  • Consider electrolytes if you’re struggling

4) Bloating and reflux

A lot of people blame the medication, when it’s often the food timing + portion size.

Quick wins: – Smaller portions – Earlier dinner – Reduce high-fat meals on injection day

5) Appetite swings (the thing nobody warns you about)

Some days you have no appetite. Other days you suddenly want everything.

This is normal, and it’s why systems beat motivation.

Quick wins: – Keep 2–3 reliable “safe meals” – Don’t wait until you’re starving

The GLP‑1 daily routine that prevents most side effects

Time Habit Why it helps
Morning Fluids + protein-first start Reduces nausea, fatigue
Midday Small meal + fibre Prevents constipation
Afternoon Fluid top-up Stops dehydration creep
Evening Smaller dinner, earlier Reduces reflux
Daily Light movement Improves motility

FAQs (snippet-first)

How long do GLP‑1 side effects last?

Most people find GI side effects are worst during dose escalation and ease over time, especially with hydration, meal size control, and routine.

Why do GLP‑1s cause constipation?

Because appetite and intake drop, gastric emptying slows, and motility changes — often leading to lower fibre and fluid intake.

What should I eat when I feel nauseous on Mounjaro?

Small, bland, protein-first meals (and slower eating) are usually the best starting point.

Do I need supplements on GLP‑1s?

Not always. But many people struggle to hit protein, fibre, and micronutrients early on due to reduced intake. A simple daily baseline can help.

What’s the simplest “support stack” if I’m struggling?

A practical baseline is: protein + fibre + gut support. That’s why the Daily Essentials Bundle exists.

Next steps

If you need medication support in the UK: https://www.alanspicer.com/mounjaro

If side effects are making the journey harder than it needs to be: https://www.alanspicer.com/lilyandloaf

Transparency: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports my free GLP‑1 content at no extra cost to you.

Categories
GLP1 WEIGHT LOSS

10 Must‑Have Essentials for GLP‑1 Weight Loss (Ozempic, Mounjaro & Wegovy)

If you’re using GLP‑1 weight‑loss injections like Mounjaro, Ozempic, or Wegovy, you already know the medication is only part of the journey. The real results come from consistency, comfort, hydration, and systems that make the process easier — especially in the first few months.

After going through this journey myself, these are the exact tools and products I’ve found genuinely useful. No fluff. No gimmicks. Just practical items that reduce side effects, build better habits, and make day‑to‑day life smoother.

👉 Quick shortcut: Everything mentioned below is curated in this Amazon list: GLP‑1 Weight Loss Essentials List → https://amzn.to/3YBGA8d

This page is designed to help with the most searched GLP‑1 problems: nausea, dehydration, fatigue, digestion, portion control, and injection routines — especially for Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy, Tirzepatide, and Semaglutide users.

Watch the Full Breakdown (Video)

This video walks through each item, why it matters, and how I personally use it.

1. Insulated Travel Case for Injection Pens

If you travel, stay overnight anywhere, or simply want peace of mind, an insulated travel case is essential.

GLP‑1 pens can be out of the fridge for extended periods, but many people prefer keeping them cool — especially in summer or when flying.

Why it helps: – Protects medication when travelling – Keeps pens discreet and secure – Reduces anxiety around temperature control

👉 See recommended options here: https://amzn.to/3YBGA8d

2. Sharps Bin (Needle Disposal)

Used needles need to be disposed of properly — full stop.

Some pharmacies provide sharps bins, many don’t. Owning one avoids mess, accidents, and awkward storage.

Why it helps: – Safe needle disposal – Cleaner home environment – Peace of mind if you have kids or pets

3. Alcohol Swabs

Small, cheap, and absolutely essential.

Alcohol swabs are used to clean the injection site and the pen itself before injecting. One box lasts ages and removes any guesswork around hygiene.

Extra tip: They’re also great for cleaning glasses, phone screens, and tech.

4. Large Water Bottle (Hydration Matters)

GLP‑1 medications reduce hunger — and often thirst as well.

Dehydration is one of the biggest hidden causes of: – Nausea – Headaches – Constipation

A large water bottle keeps hydration front‑of‑mind throughout the day.

Why it helps: – Reduces side effects – Improves digestion – Supports fat loss

Comparison Table: GLP‑1 Essentials at a Glance

Item What It Helps With Who Needs It Most
Insulated Travel Case Medication safety, temperature control Travellers, commuters
Sharps Bin Safe needle disposal All injection users
Alcohol Swabs Injection hygiene All injection users
Large Water Bottle Dehydration, constipation, nausea Anyone early on GLP‑1
Electrolyte Shaker Fatigue, dizziness, hydration Low‑energy or active users
Digital Food Scale Portion awareness, protein intake Plateau breakers
Meal Prep Containers Portion control, consistency Busy schedules
Nausea Remedies Settling stomach First 4–8 weeks
Reminder Tools Missed doses, routine building Anyone forgetful
Comfortable Clothes Body changes, cold sensitivity Weight‑loss phase

5. Electrolyte Shaker Bottle

Hydration isn’t just about water.

Electrolytes help prevent fatigue, dizziness, and that “flat” feeling some people get early on. A dedicated shaker bottle makes this easy and routine.

Pair it with a daily electrolyte or essentials mix if needed.

6. Digital Food Scale (Portion Awareness)

You don’t need to obsess — but portion awareness is powerful.

A digital food scale helps recalibrate what a real portion looks like, especially when appetite drops quickly.

Why it helps: – Avoids undereating or accidental overeating – Makes protein intake easier – Supports long‑term habit building

7. Small Meal Prep Containers

Big plates = big portions.

Small glass meal prep containers naturally encourage sensible portions and make leftovers easy to store or freeze.

Why they help: – Less food waste – Better portion control – Easier weekly planning

8. Nausea Relief Tools

Some people feel zero nausea. Others feel it early on.

Having simple remedies ready means you don’t panic or quit prematurely.

Popular options include: – Ginger chews or tea – Motion‑sickness wrist bands – Heat pads for stomach discomfort

Most side effects fade — but preparation helps massively.

9. Reminder Tools (Injection Consistency)

Missing doses happens more than people admit.

Simple reminder tools remove friction: – Weekly pill organisers – Calendar alerts – Visual cues on the fridge

Consistency beats perfection.

10. Comfortable, Adjustable Clothing

As weight drops, comfort becomes a moving target.

Loose, adjustable clothing keeps you warm, comfortable, and confident as your body changes — especially during sleep or home workouts.

Unexpected bonus: Many people feel colder as they lose fat.

Bonus: Daily Essentials Bundle

Some people struggle to hit protein, fibre, and micronutrients early on.

A daily essentials bundle (protein + fibre + vitamins) can help fill the gaps without forcing large meals.

I personally use Lily & Loaf’s daily essentials: https://lilyandloaf.com/pages/daily-essentials-collection-lower-intake?aff=12026950

One Page: Everything in One Place

If you just want the full, no‑nonsense list:

👉 GLP‑1 Weight Loss Amazon Essentials https://amzn.to/3YBGA8d

This covers hydration, nausea, digestion, injection comfort, portion control, and habit tracking — all in one place.

Frequently Asked Questions (GLP‑1 Users)

Do I need supplements on GLP‑1?

Not always — but many people struggle to hit protein, fibre, and micronutrients early on due to reduced appetite. A simple daily essentials mix can help bridge that gap without forcing large meals.

How long do GLP‑1 side effects last?

For most people, nausea and digestive issues ease within 2–6 weeks, especially when hydration and electrolytes are dialled in.

Can I travel with Ozempic or Mounjaro?

Yes. Injection pens can be unrefrigerated for a limited time, but an insulated travel case adds peace of mind — particularly in warm climates or long trips.

What causes nausea on GLP‑1 medications?

Common triggers include dehydration, low electrolytes, eating too fast, or meals that are too large. Most nausea is behavioural, not dosage‑related.

Will I regain weight if I stop GLP‑1?

It depends on habits. Those who build hydration, protein intake, portion control, and routine early tend to maintain results far better.

Related GLP‑1 Content You May Find Helpful

Final Thought

GLP‑1 medication is powerful — but systems are what make it sustainable.

The right tools remove friction, reduce side effects, and help you stay consistent long enough for the results to stick.

If you’re early in your journey, start with hydration, reminders, and comfort. The rest builds naturally.

Affiliate disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links. They don’t cost you anything extra and help support the channel and free resources.