If you’ve recently started taking Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) and noticed some digestive discomfort, you’re not alone. One of the more commonly reported side effects is bloating. That uncomfortable feeling of fullness, tightness or swelling in the stomach.
While it can be frustrating, there are ways to manage it effectively. In this post, we’ll explain what bloating is, why it may happen while taking Mounjaro, and what you can do to ease it.
What Is bloating?
Bloating is a common digestive symptom that can make your stomach feel full, tight, or even visibly swollen. It’s often accompanied by trapped wind, pressure, or a general sense of discomfort in the abdomen.
Bloating can be caused by excess gas or air in the digestive tract. This might be triggered by eating too quickly, consuming certain foods, or by underlying conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
While usually not serious, bloating can affect your appetite, energy levels, and general wellbeing, which is why understanding the cause and how to manage it can make a big difference.
Is bloating a side effect of Mounjaro?
Some people experience bloating when starting Mounjaro (a medication used to support weight loss and manage blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes).
Why do I get bloating on Mounjaro?
So why does it happen? Mounjaro works by mimicking gut hormones that help control blood glucose and appetite. These same hormones slow down how quickly your stomach empties, which means food stays in your stomach longer. This slower digestion can lead to a build-up of gas and fluids, causing that bloated feeling.
In addition, because Mounjaro often reduces appetite, your eating habits may change, and eating smaller or fewer meals can sometimes cause temporary digestive discomfort as your body adjusts.
The positive news is that for many people, bloating settles down over time as their body gets used to the medication. However, if symptoms persist or become more severe, it’s best to speak with your GP or prescribing clinician for support.
How can I relieve bloating while taking Mounjaro?
If bloating is affecting your comfort, here are a few simple strategies that may help:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals - Instead of large portions, try eating little and often. This can help reduce the load on your digestive system.
- Stay hydrated - Drinking plenty of water can support healthy digestion and help reduce bloating. Aim to drink at least 2-3 litres of fluid per day. If you find it difficult to drink a full glass at once, try sipping small amounts regularly throughout the day.
- Keep moving - Gentle exercise like walking, stretching, or yoga can help stimulate digestion and reduce trapped wind.
- Watch for food triggers - Some people find that fizzy drinks, high-fat meals, or certain vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and beans can make bloating worse.
If your bloating continues, or it’s causing you distress, reach out to our clinical team. They can check whether your dose needs adjusting and offer tailored advice based on your overall health and medication plan.
Key takeaway
Bloating on Mounjaro can feel discouraging, but it’s a relatively common side effect, and in many cases, it improves with time. With a few simple adjustments to your routine, like staying active, eating mindfully, and avoiding common triggers, you can help reduce symptoms and continue getting the benefits of your treatment.
As always, if you’re unsure or your symptoms are affecting your quality of life, reach out to your GP or the Phlo clinical team. You don’t have to manage side effects on your own.
