GLP-1 FOR BEGINNERS AT AIM
What to Expect in the First Few Weeks
Starting a GLP-1 medication can be a big change. Knowing what to expect—and how to manage common side effects—can make the transition much easier.
HOW GLP-1 MEDICATIONS WORK
GLP-1–based medications work on the brain, stomach, intestines, and pancreas to help regulate appetite, fullness, and blood sugar.
During the first few weeks, you may notice:
Less hunger and fewer cravings
Less “food noise” or thinking about food
Feeling full much sooner
Smaller portions suddenly feel satisfying
Food stays in the stomach longer, which can sometimes cause nausea or bloating
These effects are expected and often improve as your body adjusts.
NAUSEA: WHAT TO EXPECT
Nausea is one of the most common side effects, especially:
During the first few days after starting
After increasing your dose
After eating a large or high-fat meal
For many patients, nausea improves within 1–2 weeks once they remain on a stable dose.
How to reduce nausea:
Eat smaller meals
Eat slowly
Stop eating before you feel completely full
Avoid fried, greasy, and very high-fat foods
Limit or avoid alcohol while adjusting to treatment
Stay upright for 2–3 hours after eating
Ginger or peppermint may help
Stay well hydrated
Why does this happen? Your stomach may empty more slowly while taking a GLP-1 medication. Large or fatty meals can remain in the stomach longer and make nausea worse.
Persistent or severe nausea should be discussed with your AIM provider.
CONSTIPATION
Constipation can also occur because digestion and intestinal movement may slow. Eating and drinking less can make the problem worse.
Stay ahead of constipation:
Aim for approximately 2–3 liters of fluid per day, unless your doctor has told you to restrict fluids.
Gradually work toward 25–35 grams of fiber per day
Choose fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, oats, and whole grains
Increase fiber slowly to minimize gas and bloating
Keep moving—regular walking and exercise can help bowel function
Some patients may benefit from an over-the-counter osmotic laxative or magnesium product. Ask your AIM provider which option and dose are appropriate for you, especially if you have kidney disease or take other medications.
Contact your provider for severe abdominal pain, persistent constipation, vomiting, or significant abdominal swelling.
NUTRITION: PROTEIN FIRST
Because GLP-1 medications decrease appetite, it becomes especially important to make every meal count.
During weight loss, your goal is to lose fat while protecting muscle.
Make protein your priority:
Eat protein first at every meal
A reasonable individualized target is often around 1.2–1.6 grams of protein per kilogram per day, depending on your health, body composition, and activity level.
Many patients may start around 100 grams per day, but your AIM provider can personalize your target.
Good protein choices include:
Eggs
Greek yogurt
Cottage cheese
Chicken and turkey
Fish
Lean meats
Beans and lentils
Protein shakes when needed
When you become full quickly, eating your protein first helps make sure you get the nutrition your body needs.
Don’t forget:
Hydration: Aim for 2–3 liters daily when medically appropriate.
Fiber: Aim for 25–35 grams daily.
A daily multivitamin may be reasonable when calorie intake is significantly reduced.
Some patients may benefit from electrolytes, particularly when fluid or food intake is reduced.
PROTECT YOUR MUSCLE
Protein alone isn’t enough. Your muscles need to be used.
Your weekly goal:
Resistance training 2–3 times per week
Use weights, resistance bands, machines, or bodyweight exercises
Aim for about 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week, when appropriate for you
Brisk walking counts!
New to exercise?
Start with just 10–15 minutes at a time and gradually increase.
The best exercise program is one you can safely and consistently maintain.
DOSE ADJUSTMENT: MORE ISN’T ALWAYS BETTER
Many GLP-1 medications have recommended dose-escalation schedules, but your treatment should be individualized.
At AIM, we consider:
How well you are tolerating your current dose
Your appetite and food intake
Your rate of weight loss
Side effects
Muscle preservation
Your overall metabolic health
You don’t necessarily need the maximum dose.
If your current dose is producing good results with manageable side effects, your provider may decide to keep you there longer.
Missed several doses?
Don’t automatically restart where you left off.
Contact your AIM provider for instructions, because you may need to restart at a lower dose depending on the medication and how long you’ve been off treatment.
WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR
Seek prompt medical attention for:
Severe or persistent abdominal pain
Severe pain that travels to your back
Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
Inability to keep fluids down
Very dark urine or significantly decreased urination
Severe dizziness, fainting, or rapid heartbeat
Swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing
New or significant vision changes
Symptoms of low blood sugar—especially if you also take insulin or certain diabetes medications
Contact your AIM provider if:
Side effects aren’t improving
Nausea or constipation is interfering with eating or drinking
You develop persistent weakness or unusual fatigue
You aren’t able to meet your protein or hydration goals
You experience a new or concerning symptom
THE AIM FORMULA FOR SUCCESS
Your medication is only one part of your treatment.
Think:
HYDRATION
PROTEIN
FIBER
RESISTANCE TRAINING
SMART DOSE PACING
SLEEP & RECOVERY
GLP-1 medications can be powerful tools for treating obesity and improving metabolic health—but the goal isn’t simply to make the number on the scale go down.
The goal is sustainable fat loss while protecting your muscle, nutrition, strength, and long-term health.
Obesity is a chronic disease that deserves long-term, individualized care.
Your AIM team is here to help you every step of the way.
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