GLP-1 medications do not directly cause dehydration, but they may have an indirect effect due to their appetite-suppressing and gastrointestinal (GI) side effects.

Proper hydration is essential for overall well-being. When the body is well hydrated, the risk of dehydration and its negative health consequences is reduced, and bodily systems function optimally. Fluids are critical for cognitive function, mood, memory, joint lubrication, digestion, waste elimination, body temperature regulation, organ function, and nutrient delivery to cells. Proper hydration also improves sleep quality—an often overlooked but crucial factor in weight loss and maintenance.

 

While GLP-1 medications do not directly dehydrate the body, they can make adequate fluid intake more difficult. Appetite suppression and GI side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may reduce both food and fluid consumption. Because fluids come not only from beverages but also from food, this combination of effects can make it harder for users to stay properly hydrated. In addition, reduced food intake may lead to electrolyte disturbances, such as low potassium or sodium levels.

 

Dehydration can worsen these imbalances, negatively impacting muscle function, metabolic health, and hydration status—adding further challenges to weight loss efforts.

Hydration needs vary based on age, gender, activity level, climate, and overall health. However, general guidelines recommend about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids per day for men and 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) for women. It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine your specific needs.

GLP-1 Medications, Hydration, and Electrolytes

Electrolytes are essential minerals with an electric charge that help regulate key bodily functions, including fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve signaling. People taking GLP-1 medications may experience muscle cramps, which can result from inadequate hydration or low electrolyte levels. Common electrolytes include sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, and magnesium.

How Electrolytes Support Hydration:

• Sodium: Regulates fluid balance inside and outside cells (intracellular and extracellular spaces). Too much or too little sodium can lead to dehydration or fluid overload. The recommended daily limit for sodium is less than 2,300 mg.

 

•  Potassium: Works with sodium to maintain the body's water balance. Primarily found inside cells, potassium supports muscle function and helps prevent fluid retention. The American Heart Association recommends at least 3,400 mg/day for men and 2,400 mg/day for women.

 

• Magnesium: Supports nerve and muscle function and helps balance calcium and potassium levels. It also regulates blood sugar and blood pressure. Recommended intake varies by age, gender, and pregnancy or lactation status.

 

•  Chloride: Works with sodium to regulate fluid levels and maintain electrolyte balance.

 

• Calcium: Important for bone and tooth health, muscle contraction, and maintaining normal blood pressure. These functions indirectly support proper hydration. Recommended intake varies based on individual factors.

Hydration Strategies for GLP-1 Users

To reduce the risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, consider the following strategies:

•  Drink water consistently throughout the day—don’t wait until you’re thirsty.

 

•  Increase water intake during hot weather or physical activity.

 

• Add electrolytes to water to help offset nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

 

• Avoid or limit sugary and energy drinks, which can affect blood sugar and irritate the stomach.

 

• Eat water-rich foods like watermelon, grapes, berries, cucumbers, and celery.

 

• Include soups and broths in your diet.

 Consume foods rich in potassium, magnesium, and calcium—such as bananas, avocados, oranges, black beans, brown rice, edamame, tofu, yogurt, almonds, and dairy products.

Biocare and Hydration*

In addition to dietary strategies, incorporating a scientifically formulated supplement like Biocare can help meet hydration and electrolyte needs. Biocare is a protein-rich dietary beverage designed to preserve lean muscle mass and support patients on GLP-1 medications who may face digestive or nutritional challenges. It provides 30 grams of high-quality protein and essential electrolytes — sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium—to help maintain fluid balance.*

While not classified as a dedicated electrolyte drink, Biocare contains electrolyte minerals and delivers an excellent source of potassium, magnesium, and calcium, with moderate sodium levels. These nutrients help support hydration, heart health, and muscle function.

Additionally, Biocare contains pre- and probiotics that support gut health and enhance nutrient and fluid absorption. This combination is especially beneficial for individuals using GLP-1 medications.

 

Each serving of Biocare delivers:

20 percent of the daily value (DV) for potassium

7–13 percent of the DV for sodium

 

This balanced electrolyte profile helps support hydration and overall wellness while avoiding excessive sodium intake. The potassium-to-sodium ratio is thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of health-conscious consumers managing weight with GLP-1 therapy.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

 

About the Author: Dr. Dawn M. Sweet has over 20 years of experience in the field of communication. Dr. Sweet has given several invited talks to and workshops for academic and private sector audiences on the role of nonverbal and verbal communication in achieving positive outcomes and mitigating bias. Her research has been published in several top ranked peer-review journals, and it has been featured on NPR’s River to River / All Things Considered, Buzzfeed, and Science Daily. Her research has also been used to inform expert testimony.