There is no universal list of foods that everyone taking a GLP-1 medication must avoid. However, certain foods and eating patterns may make common gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, bloating, indigestion, diarrhea, or constipation, more noticeable. GLP-1 medications can slow gastric emptying, meaning food may stay in the stomach longer. This can contribute to fullness and digestive discomfort for some people. The goal is not to follow a strict “GLP-1 diet.”

Constipation is a recognized side effect of GLP-1 medications. These medications affect digestion and can slow how quickly food moves through the stomach and digestive tract. FDA prescribing information for GLP-1 medications identifies delayed gastric emptying as part of how this medication class affects digestion, and constipation is listed among the gastrointestinal side effects associated with GLP-1 treatment. For many people, constipation is manageable with simple lifest