If you’re taking Wegovy (semaglutide) to manage weight or diabetes, you might be dealing with heartburn as a side effect. While this medication can be life-changing for many, it’s not uncommon to experience digestive discomfort like acid reflux or indigestion. The good news? There are practical steps you can take to ease these symptoms while staying on track with your treatment.
Why Does Wegovy Cause Heartburn?
Wegovy works by slowing digestion, which helps you feel fuller longer and supports weight management. However, this slower process can sometimes lead to food lingering in the stomach, increasing the chance of stomach acid creeping up into the esophagus. Combine this with certain eating habits or lifestyle factors, and you’ve got a recipe for heartburn flare-ups.
Simple Strategies to Reduce Acid Reflux
- Eat smaller meals: Overloading your stomach can trigger heartburn. Try using smaller plates to control portion sizes naturally. For example, choosing salad plates or appetizer-sized dishes from trusted retailers like americandiscounttableware.com can help train your brain to recognize satisfying portions without discomfort.
- Avoid trigger foods: Spicy dishes, citrus fruits, fried foods, and caffeine are common culprits. Keep a food journal to identify your personal triggers.
- Stay upright after eating: Wait at least 2-3 hours before lying down after meals. Gravity helps keep stomach acid where it belongs.
- Chew thoroughly: Breaking down food properly reduces the work your stomach needs to do, potentially easing digestion.
When to Time Your Meals and Medication
Your eating schedule can make a big difference. Try spacing meals evenly throughout the day instead of eating large portions at once. If your heartburn tends to strike at night, aim to finish dinner earlier. Some people find relief by taking their Wegovy dose at a different time of day – always check with your prescriber before adjusting medication timing.
Over-the-Counter Solutions That Help
For occasional relief, antacids like Tums or Rolaids can neutralize stomach acid quickly. If symptoms persist, H2 blockers (Pepcid) or proton pump inhibitors (Nexium) may provide longer-lasting relief. However, always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medications to avoid interactions.
Lifestyle Changes That Make a Difference
Small daily habits can have a big impact on heartburn prevention:
- Wear loose-fitting clothing that doesn’t pressure your abdomen
- Elevate the head of your bed 6-8 inches if nighttime reflux occurs
- Maintain a healthy weight through diet and approved physical activity
- Practice stress-reduction techniques like deep breathing or yoga
When to Contact Your Healthcare Team
While occasional heartburn is normal, seek medical advice if you experience:
- Symptoms occurring more than twice weekly
- Difficulty swallowing
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Unexplained weight loss
- Chest pain that feels like squeezing or pressure (seek emergency care)
Remember that managing side effects is part of the journey with any medication. By staying proactive with your eating habits and working closely with your healthcare provider, you can minimize discomfort while maximizing Wegovy’s benefits. Most people find that their body adjusts to the medication over time, with heartburn symptoms often improving after the first few months of treatment.
Stay hydrated with water between meals (avoid drinking large amounts during meals), and consider trying ginger tea or licorice root supplements – some studies suggest these natural remedies may soothe digestive discomfort. As always, check with your doctor before trying new supplements.