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What is Semaglutide and Tirzepatide?

Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are both FDA approved for their use in type 2 diabetes and weight loss. They are synthetic versions of a naturally made hormone in the body that is known as GLP-1. It is released when food is consumed to let your brain know you are full leading to decreased intake of food and subsequent weight loss. Having a healthy diet is important for success with taking this medication.

What are common side effects of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide?

    • nausea
    • diarrhea
    • vomiting
    • stomach pain
    • constipation

Tirzepatide has greater affect compared to semaglutide, so the above side effects may be experienced to a larger degree with tirzepatide compared to semaglutide. A healthy diet can help lessen these side effects!

What foods should I incorporate in my diet while on Semaglutide or Tirzepatide?

    • non-starchy foods
        • low in carbs and rich in fiber
        • examples: asparagus, beans, brussels sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, eggplant, leeks, mushrooms, peppers, swiss chard, tomatoes, and greens
    • whole grains
        • rich in fiber and a type of carbohydrate that does not raise blood sugar significantly
        • examples: oatmeal, brown rice, whole wheat bread, barley, and whole wheat pastas
    • nuts
        • made of healthy unsaturated fats as well as protein and fiber that do not raise blood sugar and helps reduce risk of heart disease
    • protein rich foods:
        • ¼ of your plate should consist of protein at meals as they do not raise your blood sugar too much and can help make you feel fuller for longer
        • examples: animal products, quinoa, chickpeas, lentils, and oats
    • legumes
        • packed with fiber and beneficial nutrients
        • examples: beans, peas, and lentils

What food groups in your diet can make side effects worse?

Due to many patients experiencing stomach upset while taking this medication, it is important to avoid certain food groups to mitigate this including:

    • stringy fruits and vegetables
        • examples: pineapple, celery, apples
    • gas-forming vegetables
        • examples: broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, brussels sprouts, onions, and asparagus
    • dairy
        • example: cheese, yogurts
    • foods with added sugar
        • aim to keep sugar intake below 30g per day
    • fried foods
    • alcohol
        • alcohol lowers blood sugar and when combined with Semaglutide, it can lower your blood sugar to unsafe levels
        • avoid more than one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men

Try Semaglutide with Preston’s Pharmacy

Preston’s Pharmacy compounds and sells both Semaglutide and Tirzepatide. Taking the medication is comfortable for patients and can be titrated to help prevent side effects. We also add vitamin B6 to our Semaglutide and Tirzepatide, to help limit these unwanted side effects. Talk to your doctor about getting a prescription or give us a call to talk about your options!

Contact Preston’s pharmacy today!