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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

Hydration & Electrolytes on GLP-1 (2026): Why Dehydration Happens, Symptoms & What Actually Helps

Dehydration is one of the most common, least recognised problems people experience on GLP‑1 medications like Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Ozempic.

It often shows up indirectly — fatigue, headaches, nausea, constipation, dizziness — and gets blamed on the drug itself, when in reality it’s frequently a hydration and electrolyte issue caused by eating and drinking less.

This guide explains why dehydration happens on GLP‑1s, how to spot it early, and how to fix it safely without gimmicks or medical overreach.

Quick links:
– GLP‑1 medication access (UK): https://www.alanspicer.com/mounjaro
– Daily nutrition & gut support: https://www.alanspicer.com/lilyandloaf

Related guides: – Mounjaro Nausea: https://alanspicer.com/mounjaro-nausea/
– Mounjaro Constipation: https://alanspicer.com/mounjaro-constipation/

Definition block (snippet‑ready)

What is dehydration on GLP‑1 medications?
Dehydration on GLP‑1s occurs when reduced appetite and thirst lead to lower fluid and electrolyte intake than the body needs, often without obvious thirst signals.

What causes it?
People eat and drink less, gastric emptying slows, and thirst cues become unreliable.

What’s the fastest fix?
Regular fluid intake throughout the day plus adequate sodium and electrolytes — not just plain water.

Why GLP‑1s increase dehydration risk

GLP‑1 medications change behaviour at a biological level:

  • Appetite is suppressed
  • Thirst signals often reduce alongside hunger
  • Meal frequency drops
  • Fluid intake becomes irregular

Many people also: – Cut out salty foods – Drink less alcohol (which previously contributed fluid) – Forget to sip between meals

The result is a slow, cumulative fluid deficit.

Common signs of dehydration on GLP‑1s

Dehydration doesn’t always feel like thirst.

Common early signs include: – Fatigue or low energy – Headaches – Dizziness when standing – Nausea without vomiting – Constipation – Dark urine or infrequent urination

Because these overlap with other GLP‑1 side effects, dehydration is often missed.

Electrolytes: the missing piece

Drinking large amounts of plain water without electrolytes can sometimes worsen symptoms.

Electrolytes — especially sodium — are needed to: – Maintain fluid balance – Support nerve and muscle function – Prevent dizziness and weakness

On very low calorie intake, electrolyte intake often drops unintentionally.

Research context (authority)

Source What it supports
NICE TA1026 GI effects and intake changes with tirzepatide
FDA Mounjaro label Nausea, vomiting, dehydration risk
NEJM SURMOUNT‑1 GI side effects linked to reduced intake
NHS hydration guidance Signs and prevention of dehydration

Sources: – NICE TA1026: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta1026
– FDA label: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2025/215866s039lbl.pdf
– NEJM SURMOUNT‑1: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2206038
– NHS dehydration: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dehydration/

How much should you drink on GLP‑1s?

There’s no single perfect number, but most people on GLP‑1s do better with:

  • Regular sipping, not large infrequent drinks
  • Fluids spread evenly through the day
  • Increased intake on active days

Urine colour is a useful practical guide — pale straw colour is usually a good target.

The GLP‑1 hydration routine that actually works

Time What to do Why it helps
Morning Water + pinch of salt or electrolytes Rehydrates after sleep
Mid‑morning Sip fluids Prevents deficit build‑up
Lunch Fluid with meal Aids digestion
Afternoon Electrolyte top‑up Prevents fatigue
Evening Moderate fluids Avoids overnight nausea

Hydration mistakes that worsen side effects

  • Waiting until you feel thirsty
  • Drinking only plain water
  • Skipping fluids on low‑appetite days
  • Avoiding salt entirely

These mistakes often worsen nausea and constipation.

Real‑world experience

During my own GLP‑1 journey — losing over 6 stone (86lbs) on Mounjaro — dehydration was one of the biggest hidden triggers for nausea, headaches, and fatigue.

Once I treated hydration as a daily system rather than a reaction, many side effects reduced significantly.

I documented this process openly here: https://www.youtube.com/@AlanSpicerisLosingIt

FAQs

Is dehydration common on GLP‑1 medications?
Yes. Reduced appetite often reduces fluid intake without people realising.

Do GLP‑1s make you lose electrolytes?
Not directly, but lower food intake often reduces sodium and electrolyte intake.

Can dehydration cause nausea on Mounjaro?
Yes. Dehydration is a common nausea trigger.

Should I add salt to my water?
Many people benefit from modest sodium intake, especially on low calories, but individual needs vary.

Can electrolytes help constipation?
They support hydration, which is a key part of preventing constipation.

Next steps

If you’re starting or continuing GLP‑1 treatment in the UK: https://www.alanspicer.com/mounjaro

If you’re struggling to maintain nutrition and gut comfort while eating less: https://www.alanspicer.com/lilyandloaf

Related reading: – Mounjaro nausea: https://alanspicer.com/mounjaro-nausea/
– Mounjaro constipation: https://alanspicer.com/mounjaro-constipation/

Transparency: Some links are affiliate links. They support this content at no extra cost to you.