Mindful Eating on GLP-1

  • GLP-1 Insomnia 101: Why You Can’t Sleep and What to Do About It

    GLP-1 INSOMNIA

    You’re lying there wide awake at 3am. Again. You’re losing weight, the meds are working, but now you’re losing sleep too? Welcome to the delightful world of what many call GLP-1 insomnia, a sneaky little side effect that no one really warns you about when you start on medications like Wegovy or Zepbound.

    And let’s clear this up from the start: GLP-1s don’t directly cause insomnia. There’s no magical “off switch” for sleep hidden in the medication itself.

    It’s what happens around the edges, eating less, blood sugar swings, side effects like feeling nauseous, or even emotional changes, that can leave you staring at the ceiling instead of sleeping.

    And I get it. Personally, I’ve been through the absolute horror of insomnia myself, not from GLP-1s but during the postpartum phase after having my little boy. It hit me hard. I couldn’t sleep, no matter how exhausted I was, and honestly, it wrecked me.

    I still don’t know if it was postpartum depression causing the insomnia or the other way around, but I do know this: when you’re sleep-deprived, everything feels heavier, mentally, physically, emotionally. It’s like you’re wearing life’s weight as an extra layer.

    That’s why I’m a big believer that sleep hygiene matters, not just for weight loss or energy, but for your overall wellbeing.

    This post is here to help you take back your nights, feel like yourself again, and keep your GLP-1 journey on track without the zombie-level exhaustion.

    We’ll break down why GLP-1 insomnia shows up, how it affects your mood, cravings, and motivation, and most importantly, practical steps to help you drift off (and stay asleep). So, pop the kettle on and let’s get you sorted.


    1. Why GLP-1 Medications Can Disrupt Sleep

    Let’s start with the “why” because once you know what’s going on, it’s easier to fix.

    As I mentioned, GLP-1s don’t directly cause insomnia, but they can create the perfect storm for it through indirect effects:

    • Eating less = potential blood sugar drops overnight, which can leave you jittery, anxious, or feeling hungry.
    • Slowed digestion can lead to discomfort, bloating, or constipation relief problems that rear their ugly heads when you lie down.
    • Hormonal and appetite changes can affect melatonin, cortisol, and hunger signals, which can all throw off your body clock.

    Add in Zepbound side effects, racing thoughts, or just the sheer weirdness of adjusting to a new way of eating, and your sleep routine can take a serious hit.

    If you’re also finding your energy crashing during the day, you’ll love How to Exercise on GLP-1s When You’re Low on Energy because better energy and better sleep go hand in hand.

    person lying on bed while covering face with pillow and holding eyeglasses

    2. How Poor Sleep Affects Your GLP-1 Journey

    It’s not just about feeling tired, GLP-1 insomnia can quietly sabotage your progress.

    • Sleep deprivation messes with ghrelin and leptin, your hunger and fullness hormones, which can leave you with surprise cravings or emotional eating triggers.
    • When you’re knackered, it’s far harder to stick to your healthy lifestyle habits or get moving.
    • Poor sleep = low mood = higher risk of throwing in the towel.

    This is where focusing on non scale victory wins like energy, strength, mood, and consistency really matters. Because let’s be honest, you’re not doing this just for a number on a scale, you’re doing it for you.

    If you’re already slipping into “what’s the point” mode, head to Losing Motivation on GLP-1s? How to Stay Consistent When the Excitement Fades, trust me, you’ll feel seen.

    woman sleeping on bed beside book

    3. The Role of Stress, Hormones, and Routine

    The truth is, GLP-1 insomnia is often fuelled by a messy mix of stress, hormones, and lack of routine.

    • Stress, from weight loss, life changes, or even the mental shift around GLP1 before and after identity, raises cortisol, your body’s natural “stay awake” hormone.
    • For women, cycle changes, periods, and hormone swings on top of Wegovy side effects can further disrupt sleep patterns.
    • And let’s be honest, scrolling TikTok at midnight doesn’t help (we’ve all done it – I’m a BookTok addict).

    This is where simple tweaks to wellness habits, like consistent bedtimes, smart nutrition, and adding some mindful eating to settle digestion, can really move the needle.

    If your periods have gone haywire too, check out Your Period on GLP-1s: What to Expect, What’s Normal, and How to Manage Changes because hormones and sleep love to gang up on us.


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    GLP-1 INSOMNIA

    4. Practical Tips to Sleep Better on GLP-1s

    Right, let’s get to what actually works.

    Tweak Your Meal Timing: Avoid heavy meals close to bedtime to help digestion and prevent that uncomfortable feeling nauseous or bloated feeling.

    Fuel Smart During the Day: Stable blood sugar = better sleep. Include protein and healthy fats in your GLP1 meal recipes to avoid nighttime crashes.

    Hydrate Early, Not Late: A daily electrolyte drink can help with nausea relief, natural energy, and even constipation relief, just avoid guzzling it too close to bedtime.

    Gentle Movement: Even five minutes of walking or stretching helps regulate your body clock. For tired-day ideas, don’t miss How to Exercise on GLP-1s When You’re Low on Energy.

    Try Supplements & Sleep Rituals: Magnesium glycinate is popular for relaxation (but check with your GP first). Create a low-stress bedtime vibe, dim lights, herbal tea, no screens. I have a whole list here of helpful supplements.

    If night-time is when food anxiety creeps in, I highly recommend When Food Stops Working: How to Cope Without Your Usual Comfort on GLP-1s, it’ll help you reset emotionally.

    brown and white bed linen

    5. When to Get Help

    If you’ve tried the tweaks and GLP-1 insomnia is still stealing your nights, it’s time to speak to your prescriber. Sometimes a dose change, timing adjustment, or short-term sleep support can make all the difference.

    And let’s be real, you need sleep to succeed. This is part of the bigger picture, not a side quest.

    Your GLP-1 Game Plan Starts Here

    Feeling a bit lost on your GLP-1 journey? Whether you’re just starting out or deep into your dose increases, the GLP-1 Success Blueprint is your practical, no-fluff guide to navigating weight loss meds like Mounjaro, Zepbound, or Wegovy with confidence.

    This isn’t another generic ebook. It’s a full toolkit designed to help you feel strong, informed, and in control, without the overwhelm.

    Inside, you’ll get:

    • GLP-1 Meds 101: Understand how they work, what to expect, and how each med compares (minus the jargon)
    • Nutrition Guidance: Learn how to eat for fat loss and muscle retention, even when your appetite is low
    • Workout Support: Discover the best ways to move your body without burning out
    • 6-Week Action Plan: Simple daily steps and healthy habit examples to follow at your pace
    • Mindset & Motivation Tips: Stay consistent even when your drive dips
    • Red Flag Checklist: Know what’s normal, what’s not, and when to seek support
    • Bonus: Myths & FAQs – Bust the most common GLP-1 myths and get real answers

    Digital download only – use it on your phone, tablet, or print it out to keep by your side.

    Ready to ditch the guesswork and actually feel good on your meds?


    Read These Next


    Conclusion

    GLP-1 insomnia might not be a direct side effect, but the ripple effects of this journey can easily mess with your sleep.

    The good news? With the right tweaks, you can rest better, feel better, and keep smashing your goals.

    You’ve got this.


    Next Steps

    “Rest isn’t earned, it’s essential. Protect your sleep, protect your progress.”


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    GLP-1 INSOMNIA
  • 9 Real Reasons You’re Craving or Avoiding Food on GLP-1s (And What to Eat Instead)

    what to eat

    GLP-1 meds messing with your appetite? Wondering what to eat when everything sounds gross or cravings hit out of nowhere? You’re not alone.

    One minute you’re not hungry at all, the next you’re feeling hungry for something oddly specific, like toast with butter at 3pm (true story).

    Or maybe food itself has become the enemy: the smell, the texture, the very thought of eating makes you gag. If this sounds familiar, don’t panic. It’s one of those quirky GLP1 before and after surprises no one really warns you about.

    In this post, I’m breaking down the real reasons your cravings or aversions are flipping tables right now, and more importantly, what to eat instead so you can feel like yourself again (without making the nausea worse).

    You’ll also find practical GLP1 tips and tricks, mindset shifts, and simple swaps to help you stay back on track without feeling miserable.

    Let’s get into it.


    1. You’re Dehydrated (And Mistaking It for Hunger)

    If you’re constantly feeling hungry but nothing appeals, dehydration could be the culprit. GLP-1s like Wegovy and Zepbound can mess with thirst cues, leaving you low on fluids and energy.

    What to eat: Start with an electrolyte drink—it hydrates better than plain water and can help with nausea relief too. Look for the best electrolyte drink options without added sugars.

    If food still feels blah, check out Why GLP-1 Medications Make Food Less Enjoyable, And How to Find Joy in Eating Again for more help.

    woman in blue denim jacket holding bottled water

    2. Your Blood Sugar’s Fluctuating

    Those weird cravings? They might not be random. Low blood sugar can spark intense urges for carbs or sweets, even on GLP-1 supplements that suppress appetite.

    What to eat: A small balanced snack, think Greek yoghurt with berries, or apple slices with peanut butter, can steady blood sugar and keep energy up without triggering feeling nauseous.


    3. Your Hormones Are Shifting

    Ladies, your period, stress, or poor sleep can all throw a spanner in the works. Hormone swings impact both cravings and food aversions, especially when you’re also dealing with Wegovy side effects.

    What to eat: Protein-rich comfort meals (scrambled eggs, chicken soup, or beans on toast) can help balance hormones and keep your mood in check. This is also the perfect time to lean into mindful eating, slow it down, tune in.

    If your cycle’s wreaking havoc, pop over to When Food Stops Working: How to Cope Without Your Usual Comfort on GLP-1s.

    cauliflower with green vegetable

    4. Food Aversion from Nausea or Texture Sensitivity

    Hands up if you’ve gone to eat something and instantly thought: Nope. This is one of the most common Zepbound side effects and can leave you dreading mealtimes.

    What to eat: Think soft, bland, easy-to-digest foods, mashed potatoes, soups, oat-based smoothies, or rice. For anti nausea relief, ginger tea, crackers, and sipping an electrolyte drink throughout the day can help.


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    5. Emotional Eating Triggers Still Pop Up

    Even with less appetite, emotional eating doesn’t just vanish. Boredom, stress, or old habits can still push you towards the kitchen.

    What to eat: Rather than fight the urge, swap the go-to snack for something that nourishes, protein bars, Greek yoghurt, fruit with nut butter.

    Or skip food entirely and reach for non-food comforts: music, fresh air, or a quick scroll through cat memes (scientifically proven mood booster, probably).

    For a deeper dive on this emotional side, read GLP-1 and Body Image: Why You Might Struggle Even After Weight Loss.

    what to eat

    6. You’re Under-Fuelling

    You’re eating so little that your body’s genuinely low on fuel, leaving you with sudden fatigue, cravings, and even maintaining healthy hair challenges.

    What to eat: Focus on small but nutrient-dense snacks. Cheese cubes, hard-boiled eggs, mini protein smoothies, or even those babybel cheeses (yes, really). Protein helps keep natural energy stable.


    7. Overeating Fear is Causing Food Avoidance

    Worried about weight regain? Scared to “overdo it” even when you’re feeling hungry? This food fear is incredibly common.

    What to eat: Go for meals that are balanced but satisfying: protein, fibre, healthy fats. And remind yourself that one snack won’t undo your hard work. This is where non scale victory wins come into play, energy, mood, strength matter too.


    8. Stress, Sleep or Exhaustion Are Driving Cravings

    Lack of sleep, stress, or simply life can trigger snack attacks and weird cravings. Add GLP1 side effects on top? Recipe for chaos.

    What to eat: Oat-based snacks, herbal teas, magnesium-rich foods like dark chocolate or nuts can soothe cravings. This is also a great time to use supplements to take with GLP1 for extra support.

    If low energy is also killing your exercise mojo, hop over to How to Exercise on GLP-1s When You’re Low on Energy: Real Tips That Actually Work.

    person lying on bed while covering face with pillow and holding eyeglasses

    9. You’re in the Adjustment Phase (And It Will Pass)

    Sometimes, it’s just your body adjusting. The GLP1 before and after journey is rarely linear—taste changes, nausea, even cravings can come and go.

    What to eat: Gentle foods, small portions, whatever sits well. And don’t forget: wellness habits like fresh air, movement, and pep talks from yourself matter too.


    Your GLP-1 Game Plan Starts Here

    Feeling a bit lost on your GLP-1 journey? Whether you’re just starting out or deep into your dose increases, the GLP-1 Success Blueprint is your practical, no-fluff guide to navigating weight loss meds like Mounjaro, Zepbound, or Wegovy with confidence.

    This isn’t another generic ebook. It’s a full toolkit designed to help you feel strong, informed, and in control, without the overwhelm.

    Inside, you’ll get:

    • GLP-1 Meds 101: Understand how they work, what to expect, and how each med compares (minus the jargon)
    • Nutrition Guidance: Learn how to eat for fat loss and muscle retention, even when your appetite is low
    • Workout Support: Discover the best ways to move your body without burning out
    • 6-Week Action Plan: Simple daily steps and healthy habit examples to follow at your pace
    • Mindset & Motivation Tips: Stay consistent even when your drive dips
    • Red Flag Checklist: Know what’s normal, what’s not, and when to seek support
    • Bonus: Myths & FAQs – Bust the most common GLP-1 myths and get real answers

    Digital download only – use it on your phone, tablet, or print it out to keep by your side.

    Ready to ditch the guesswork and actually feel good on your meds?


    Read These Next


    Conclusion

    Food cravings and aversions on GLP-1s are totally normal, but they don’t have to control your day.

    By knowing what to eat and listening to your body, you can find balance, comfort, and joy again.

    One small change at a time, you’ve got this.


    Next Steps

    “Small steps, big change, your journey doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful.”


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  • Why GLP-1 Medications Make Food Less Enjoyable And How to Find Joy in Eating Again

    food less enjoyable

    You start GLP-1 meds expecting weight loss, appetite control, maybe fewer cravings. But what no one told you? That your favourite pasta bake, your cheeky takeaway, even your beloved cuppa might suddenly feel… meh. Yep, GLP-1’s make food less enjoyable.

    And that’s not a good thing.

    It’s one of the sneakiest emotional curveballs of GLP-1s like Wegovy, Zepbound or Mounjaro. You’re eating less, sure, but also getting less joy from it.

    It’s like someone turned down the flavour, satisfaction, and comfort all in one go.

    This post is your honest guide to what’s going on, why it’s happening, and (more importantly) how to bring back a bit of joy to your meals, even if it’s not the same as before.

    We’ll chat about the science, the feelings, and some dead-easy ways to feel more connected to food again, without forcing it.

    Ready to make peace with your plate again? Let’s dive in.


    1. The Hidden Side Effect: Why GLP-1s Can Make Food Less Enjoyable

    GLP-1 meds like Wegovy and Zepbound are brilliant for appetite suppression, but one major downside? They can mess with how your brain enjoys food. That “reward response”, the happy little dopamine boost from your favourite meal , gets blunted.

    If you’re finding food less enjoyable and missing the comfort meals used to bring, it’s okay to grieve that shift.

    Less hunger, less craving, but also… less pleasure.

    Add in classic Zepbound side effects like feeling nauseous, constipation relief struggles, and that pesky food aversion phase? You’re suddenly staring at your plate wondering what alien swapped your tastebuds.

    Oh, and let’s not forget the physical stuff, slower digestion (thanks, delayed gastric emptying), bland taste changes, or that random food that now makes you gag.

    Combine that with mental shifts like breaking food-as-comfort habits, and it’s no wonder so many GLP-1 users end up feeling frustrated and lost.

    If you’ve ever said “I’m not hungry, but I still feel weirdly emotional,” bookmark When Food Stops Working: How to Cope Without Your Usual Comfort on GLP-1s – it digs deeper into this exact mind-food connection.

    woman in white lace shirt holding brown woven basket

    2. The Emotional Toll of Losing Food as Comfort

    Let’s talk grief. Yes, grief. Because when food was your go-to for comfort, connection, or celebration, losing that spark feels like losing a friend.

    You might feel detached at social events, skip meals without meaning to, or start dreading dinner altogether. And that’s not just physical. It’s emotional.

    Food was your reward. Your routine. Your self-care. Maybe even your sense of control. Now? You’re having to re-learn everything, and it’s exhausting.

    No wonder motivation starts tanking, especially when you’re also juggling GLP1 before and after expectations and hoping to see non scale victory moments that feel… well, worth it.

    This is also where GLP-1 and Body Image: Why You Might Struggle Even After Weight Loss becomes relevant. Because even with results, if food joy disappears, body confidence doesn’t automatically rise.


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    food less enjoyable

    3. How to Cope When Food Stops Working

    First things first: give yourself permission to feel weird about this. You don’t need to “just be grateful” you’re eating less. Your feelings are valid.

    Even when food feels bland or food less enjoyable, there are simple ways to bring back little sparks of joy:

    • Mini meals > big portions: Big plates can be overwhelming. Try snack plates, dippy things, or kid-sized meals.
    • Focus on texture + temperature: Crunchy, cold, or creamy, experiment! A lot of GLP-1 users find that what they can tolerate shifts often.
    • Smell matters: Sometimes scent stimulates appetite more than taste. Heat it up, add spices, or try citrus-based smells.
    • Hydrate smart: If food feels ick, don’t forget to drink. Try the best electrolyte drink options to boost hydration and get that natural energy back.

    Curious about why your cravings changed or why certain foods now turn your stomach? Head to GLP-1 Food Cravings & Aversions Explained: What’s Going On and What You Can Eat Instead, it’s packed with practical swaps.

    woman eating burger

    4. How to Rebuild a Positive Relationship with Food

    This isn’t about “forcing” food joy. It’s about rediscovering little sparks of it, in new ways.

    • Start with mindful eating: Even if it’s a 3-bite meal, slow down. Taste. Smell. Let your brain catch up.
    • Don’t skip the ritual: Candles, cute bowls, favourite shows, make mealtime feel like something again.
    • Pair meals with movement: Light activity like walking or gentle yoga before meals can boost appetite and ease digestion.
    • Celebrate tiny wins: Ate a full meal? Didn’t feel sick? Managed your GLP-1 supplements? That’s a non scale victory, friend.

    And if it all still feels flat? That’s okay too. This phase won’t last forever.

    Not sure how to handle social events where food is front and centre? Don’t miss How to Navigate Social Events on GLP-1s When You Don’t Feel Like Eating, it’s got you covered with scripts and strategies that won’t make you feel awkward.


    5. You’re Not Alone: When to Get Support

    This is about more than taste, it’s identity, routine, and mindset. So if you’re really struggling to eat, or feeling anxious around food, it’s okay to get help.

    Chat to your GP about supplements to take with GLP1, nausea relief meds, or if you need Wegovy tips for symptom control.

    You might also benefit from support around body image or disordered eating patterns, especially if maintaining healthy hair, skin, or energy is starting to feel tricky.

    You deserve to feel nourished, not just smaller.


    Your GLP-1 Game Plan Starts Here

    Feeling a bit lost on your GLP-1 journey? Whether you’re just starting out or deep into your dose increases, the GLP-1 Success Blueprint is your practical, no-fluff guide to navigating weight loss meds like Mounjaro, Zepbound, or Wegovy with confidence.

    This isn’t another generic ebook. It’s a full toolkit designed to help you feel strong, informed, and in control, without the overwhelm.

    Inside, you’ll get:

    • GLP-1 Meds 101: Understand how they work, what to expect, and how each med compares (minus the jargon)
    • Nutrition Guidance: Learn how to eat for fat loss and muscle retention, even when your appetite is low
    • Workout Support: Discover the best ways to move your body without burning out
    • 6-Week Action Plan: Simple daily steps and healthy habit examples to follow at your pace
    • Mindset & Motivation Tips: Stay consistent even when your drive dips
    • Red Flag Checklist: Know what’s normal, what’s not, and when to seek support
    • Bonus: Myths & FAQs – Bust the most common GLP-1 myths and get real answers

    Digital download only – use it on your phone, tablet, or print it out to keep by your side.

    Ready to ditch the guesswork and actually feel good on your meds?


    Read These Next


    Conclusion

    If food has started to feel flat, boring, or just not worth the effort, you’re definitely not alone. Having food less enjoyable is one of those weird GLP-1 side effects no one really warns you about, but it doesn’t have to steal your joy forever.

    With a few small tweaks and a bit of patience, you can find new ways to bring satisfaction, comfort, and yes, pleasure, back to the table.

    This isn’t the end of your food story.


    Next Steps

    “Even when food feels bland, your life doesn’t have to be.”


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