Why does Ozempic or Mounjaro cause diarrhea?

GLP-1 medications change how your gut moves and processes food. For some people that means constipation; for others, looser stools or diarrhea, most often in the first weeks and after a dose increase. It usually settles as your body adjusts.

What should I eat when I have diarrhea on a GLP-1?

Keep meals small, bland, and lower in fat: think oats, banana, rice, applesauce, toast, lean protein, and cooked vegetables. Soluble fiber (oats, banana, psyllium) can firm things up. Replace fluids and electrolytes throughout the day.

When should I see a doctor about diarrhea?

Contact your healthcare provider if diarrhea is severe, lasts more than a couple of days, or comes with signs of dehydration, fever, or blood. They can review your dose and check for other causes.

Diarrhea on GLP-1: What to Eat to Settle Your Gut

Published 22 June 2026Evidence-based · 3 sources

Reviewed by Bogdan Marcu, Licensed Nutritionist & Dietitian

Diarrhea is one of the more common gastrointestinal side effects of GLP-1 medications, especially early on and after a dose increase. A few gentle eating changes, plus staying ahead on fluids, usually settle things.

Why it happens

GLP-1 medications alter how your gut moves food along. For some people that slows things down (constipation); for others it speeds up, causing looser stools. It is typically worst in the first weeks and eases as you adjust.

What to eat

Small, bland, lower-fat meals. Oats, banana, rice, applesauce, toast, lean protein, and well-cooked vegetables are easy on the gut.
Lean on soluble fiber. Oats, banana, and psyllium help firm stools; see the fiber guide.
Keep protein gentle. Skinless poultry, fish, eggs, and yogurt over heavy, fatty, or fried dishes. More on high-protein foods.

What to limit

Very fatty or fried foods, large portions, a lot of added sugar or sugar alcohols, caffeine, and alcohol can all make diarrhea worse; see foods to avoid.

Replace fluids and electrolytes

Diarrhea drains both. Sip fluids through the day and include electrolytes; see electrolytes and hydration. For more queasy days, the nausea guide has gentle options.

When to see a doctor

Get medical advice if diarrhea is severe, lasts more than a couple of days, or comes with fever, blood, or signs of dehydration like dizziness or very dark urine. This is educational information, not medical advice for your specific situation.

Frequently asked questions

Why does Ozempic or Mounjaro cause diarrhea?: GLP-1 medications change how your gut moves and processes food. For some people that means constipation; for others, looser stools or diarrhea, most often in the first weeks and after a dose increase. It usually settles as your body adjusts.
What should I eat when I have diarrhea on a GLP-1?: Keep meals small, bland, and lower in fat: think oats, banana, rice, applesauce, toast, lean protein, and cooked vegetables. Soluble fiber (oats, banana, psyllium) can firm things up. Replace fluids and electrolytes throughout the day.
When should I see a doctor about diarrhea?: Contact your healthcare provider if diarrhea is severe, lasts more than a couple of days, or comes with signs of dehydration, fever, or blood. They can review your dose and check for other causes.