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Constipation
How to resolve the negative effects of GLP-1 medication
GLP-1 Medications and Constipation: Why It Happens — and What Can Help
Insights
from Colonics
With the growing use of GLP-1 medications for weight loss and metabolic health, we have seen a steady increase in clients coming to us struggling with constipation, bloating, and discomfort. Many describe feeling uncomfortably full, sluggish, and unable to empty their bowels properly — often for days and even weeks at a time. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone.​​
How do GLP-1 work?
GLP-1 medications work by mimicking a natural hormone in the body called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). This hormone is released in the gut after we eat and plays an important role in digestion, blood sugar control, and appetite regulation.
When GLP-1 medications are introduced, they amplify these natural effects — which is why they are so effective, but also why digestive side effects are so common.
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Slower stomach emptying
One of the main actions of GLP-1 is to slow the rate at which the stomach empties food into the intestines. This helps people feel full sooner and stay full longer. However, when food sits in the digestive tract for longer periods, everything downstream slows as well — including bowel movements.
This delayed movement allows more water to be absorbed from the stool, making it harder, drier, and more difficult to pass, which is a key contributor to constipation.
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Reduced appetite = less digestive stimulation
GLP-1 medications significantly reduce hunger signals. While this can be helpful for weight loss, eating much smaller amounts of food also means less natural stimulation of the bowel.
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The digestive system relies on food volume to trigger movement (called the gastrocolic reflex). When meals are smaller or skipped, the bowel doesn’t receive the same signals to contract and move waste along — leading to sluggish digestion.
Changes in hydration
Many people on GLP-1 medications also notice:
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Reduced thirst
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Feeling full before drinking enough fluids
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Nausea that discourages drinking
Less fluid intake, combined with slower digestion, often results in dehydration of the stool, further worsening constipation.
Effects on gut nerve signals
GLP-1 also affects the nervous system of the gut, calming digestive activity. While this helps regulate blood sugar and appetite, it can reduce the natural rhythmic contractions that move stool through the colon, contributing to feelings of incomplete emptying and bloating.
Why constipation can build up over time
Because GLP-1 medications are often taken long term, constipation isn’t always immediate. Many people manage initially, only to find symptoms gradually worsening over weeks or months. Stool can accumulate in the colon, leading to:
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Persistent bloating
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Abdominal pressure
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Feeling “backed up”
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Reduced bowel movement frequency
This is often when people come to us feeling uncomfortable, frustrated, and unsure what else to try.
Supporting the body while on GLP-1
Understanding how GLP-1 medications work allows us to support the body more effectively. Increasing fibre, hydration, and movement helps counteract slower digestion, while colon hydrotherapy can provide relief when the bowel becomes overwhelmed or sluggish despite best efforts.
We’ve seen firsthand how addressing this issue proactively can make a significant difference — not only easing physical discomfort, but also restoring a sense of lightness and wellbeing for those on GLP-1 medications.
Everyday steps that can make a difference
For many people, simple lifestyle changes can significantly improve bowel function:
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Increase fibre gradually: Aim for fibre from whole foods rather than supplements where possible. Vegetables, oats, chia seeds, flaxseed, legumes, and whole grains help add bulk and movement to stools. Introduce fibre slowly to avoid gas and discomfort.
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Eat more fruit: Fruits such as kiwifruit, pears, apples, berries, and prunes naturally support digestion and hydration. Prune juice can also work wonders.
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Hydrate well: Drinking consistently throughout the day helps soften stools and keep things moving. However make sure you make your water easy to absorb, if you drink too much plain water you will deplete yourself of electrolytes. You can add a pinch of salt to your water to remineralize it.
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Gentle movement: Walking, stretching, yoga, and core engagement all stimulate the bowel. Even 10–15 minutes after meals can help.
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Routine matters: Sitting on the toilet at the same time each day — especially after breakfast — trains the bowel to empty regularly.
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Magnesium support: Some people benefit from magnesium (with professional advice), which can help relax the bowel and draw water into the stool.
When Constipation becomes unbearable
Despite best efforts, many people on GLP-1 medications still experience severe constipation. This is where we often see clients coming to us feeling desperate for relief.
We have worked with many people on GLP-1 medications who arrived feeling bloated, backed up, and uncomfortable — sometimes after weeks of minimal bowel movement.
After colon hydrotherapy, they frequently report feeling immediate relief, a sense of being lighter, less distended, and finally able to empty properly. For some, it’s the first real relief they’ve had in a long time.
Colonic irrigation as part of a long term plan
For those taking GLP-1 medications long term, colonic irrigation can be a valuable support tool — not as a replacement for healthy habits, but as a complement to them. Regular sessions can help prevent severe build-up, reduce bloating, and support overall digestive comfort while the body adapts to slower gut motility.
Our approach is always gentle, respectful, and tailored to the individual. We focus on helping clients feel comfortable, supported, and informed — never rushed or embarrassed.
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If you are on GLP-1 medication and struggling with constipation, know that help is available. With the right combination of diet, movement, hydration, and professional support, relief is possible — and digestion doesn’t have to be something you silently endure.