Fiber supplementation for GLP-1 constipation — May 2025

COA_Karl said:

Fiber trials in this population are thin, and most of what gets quoted is extrapolated from idiopathic constipation in people eating normally.

Worth saying plainly that not all of this is benign. Severe constipation on delayed gastric emptying has produced obstruction and ileus cases, rarely but genuinely. Pain with vomiting and no bowel movement is not a fiber conversation.

cory_ATX said:

I added fiber, made it noticeably worse, and only later worked out that I had added the bulk without adding the water.

Sulfur burps on constipation — the most underrated side effect nobody warned me about. 🤢 The smell is absolutely vile and comes on without warning.

What finally helped: Gas-X (simethicone) daily. Also, eating smaller portions and chewing thoroughly reduces the gas production.

If sulfur burps persist beyond 2-3 weeks, talk to your provider — it could indicate gastroparesis that needs medical attention.

JennaRN said:

Worth saying plainly that not all of this is benign.

Heartburn management on constipation: Pepcid (famotidine) 20mg has been my savior. The delayed gastric emptying means stomach acid just sits there.

Don't ignore persistent heartburn — chronic acid exposure can damage your esophagus. If OTC remedies aren't cutting it after 2 weeks, see your doctor for something stronger. You shouldn't suffer through this.

A narrower follow-up, since the general answer is now clear:

What the mechanism is, because if it is transit rather than water then fiber is the wrong lever?

Reporting back.

Update — the osmotic agent was the thing. I had been reaching for a stimulant, which was making the next day worse.