Feeling bloated? Tips to ease the discomfort
Tanya Reynard | Last update: 2nd May 2025
Bloating is an unexpected but common side effect when you use GLP-1 weight loss drugs like Wegovy (Ozempic), Mounjaro and Saxenda. It can be uncomfortable so here’s the SlimrChat guide to why it happens and ways you can minimise it.
What causes bloating?
Weight loss drugs work by slowing digestion and suppressing appetite. These changes, while beneficial for weight loss, can sometimes lead to bloating.
Causes of bloating:
- Slower digestion: Gastric emptying slows down, causing food to remain in the stomach longer.
- Dietary adjustments: Changes in eating habits, such as consuming smaller or different types of meals, can upset your digestive system.
- Gas build-up: Certain foods or swallowing air while eating can lead to increased gas production.
SlimrChat tips for reducing bloating
You can make small tweaks to your eating habits and lifestyle to significantly reduce bloating:
1. Eat slowly and mindfully
- Chew your food thoroughly to aid digestion.
- Avoid talking while eating to reduce the amount of air swallowed.
- Try mindful eating by focusing on each bite and taking your time to chew and swallow.
2. Avoid fizzy drinks
- Drinks like soda and sparkling water can introduce excess gas into your digestive system.
- Opt for still water or herbal teas instead.
3. Adjust your meal composition
- Include more easily digestible foods such as cooked vegetables, rice and lean proteins.
- Limit gas-producing foods like beans, broccoli, and cauliflower if they trigger bloating for you.
- Experiment with smaller, more frequent meals to prevent overloading your stomach.
4. Stay hydrated
- Drink plenty of water to support digestion and prevent constipation, which can exacerbate bloating.
- Infuse your water with lemon or cucumber for a refreshing twist.
When to seek medical advice
While bloating is often harmless, it’s important to recognise when it might indicate a more serious issue. Seek advice from your doctor or healthcare provider if:
- Bloating is accompanied by severe pain or persistent discomfort.
- You experience sudden weight loss or changes in bowel habits.
- Symptoms do not improve despite dietary and lifestyle changes.
Small changes for big relief
Bloating doesn’t have to be a constant struggle. By eating mindfully, staying hydrated, and making small meal adjustments, you can reduce discomfort and continue progressing toward your weight-loss goals. SlimrChat member Jayne shared how she found relief from bloating,
“When I first started the weight loss drugs, I felt bloated all the time. It wasn’t pleasant, but I learned to eat more slowly and swapped fizzy drinks for herbal tea. I also started doing some gentle stretches first thing in the morning and it made a big difference. Now, I feel much more comfortable and in control.”
Other side effects you may be experiencing
Weight loss drugs can be really effective, but like all treatments, they can come with side effects. Not everyone experiences them, and for most, they are temporary and manageable but some of the more common are nausea, constipation and bloating. Check out our other articles on side effects, why they happen, what you may experience and how you can manage them:
Tips to beat nausea: the most common weight loss drug side effect
Do you have tips for managing bloating on GLP-1 treatments? Share your experiences in the SlimrChat community and help others find relief. Click the button below and join the chat now!