Tips for Managing Side Effects of Popular Medications
1. Stomach Side Effects: The most common issues among users of the above medications center around the gut. Things like nausea and cramping along with a decreased appetite can make proper fueling tricky. Smaller, more frequent snack-like meals can help since eating larger portions might not feel the best. Starting on a probiotic or having a daily fermented beverage like probiotic sodas, kombucha, kefir or apple cider vinegar can also help bolster gut health.
2. Hydration: Along with decreased appetite, you may find less of a desire to hydrate too. To make sure you are still maintaining appropriate hydration levels try utilizing electrolyte supplements that can also help replace fluid losses from other side effects like upset stomach or vomiting. Tons of products and flavors can make for fun mocktail mixing too! You can also include a cup of bone broth daily for both hydration and extra protein.
3. Muscle loss: When it comes to losing weight from fat versus muscle while on these medications, increasing your protein intake over carbohydrates and fat can be a good call. Include liquids like protein shakes, bone broth, high protein yogurt drinks and protein-enriched canned soups. This will help you meet your nutrient needs without feeling overly full. Having non-perishable, high protein snacks like jerky, protein bars and nuts available in your bag or glove compartment can help meet a higher protein goal.