Do You Need Electrolytes on a GLP-1?

Quick answer: Most people on a GLP-1 like Mounjaro or Wegovy don't need special electrolyte products, but they do need to drink enough, because eating less food also means taking in less fluid and fewer minerals. If you're being sick or have diarrhoea, oral rehydration salts from a pharmacy are the right choice, not everyday electrolyte supplements. Electrolyte products are most useful around exercise and hot weather.

What are electrolytes?

Electrolytes are minerals that carry an electrical charge in your body, including sodium, potassium, magnesium and chloride. They help your body balance fluids and support normal muscle and nerve function. You get most of them from food and drink.

Why hydration can slip on a GLP-1

• Less food: around a fifth of our daily fluid typically comes from food, so eating less means taking in less water.
• Feeling full: large drinks can feel uncomfortable, so people drink less without noticing.
• Side effects: nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea can cause you to lose fluid and electrolytes quickly.

Signs you may be dehydrated

• Dark yellow, strong-smelling urine
• Feeling thirsty, dizzy or lightheaded
• Headaches or tiredness
• Dry mouth, lips or eyes
• Peeing less than usual

Everyday hydration tips

1. Sip little and often rather than drinking large amounts at once.
2. Keep a bottle within reach and aim for pale yellow urine.
3. Eat water-rich foods: soups, yoghurt, cucumber, melon and berries.
4. Drink between meals if drinking with meals makes you feel too full.

If you're being sick or have diarrhoea

This is where oral rehydration salts, available from any pharmacy, are the appropriate choice, because they're formulated with specific amounts of salts and sugar to replace what you've lost. Contact your GP or prescriber if vomiting or diarrhoea is severe, lasts more than a day or two, or if you can't keep fluids down.

Where everyday electrolyte products fit

Electrolyte products aren't a treatment for dehydration caused by illness. They're most useful when you're sweating more than usual, such as during workouts or hot weather. If you're returning to exercise as part of your weight-loss journey, our Electrolytes & BCAA 2:1:1 Gummies are designed for training days.

Should you worry about salt?

Most people in the UK eat more salt than they need, so there's usually no reason to add extra. If you have high blood pressure, heart or kidney conditions, check with your GP before using any electrolyte product.

FAQs

Should I take electrolytes on Mounjaro?

Not usually for everyday life. Focus on drinking enough fluid. Electrolyte products can help around exercise or hot weather.

How much water should I drink on Wegovy?

The general UK guidance is 6 to 8 glasses of fluid a day, more in hot weather or when active.

Are electrolyte gummies the same as rehydration salts?

No. If you're dehydrated from vomiting or diarrhoea, use oral rehydration salts from a pharmacy.

Reviewed by John Lebach (Nutrition Coach) and Numan Caan (Senior Sports Scientist)

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This article is for general information only and isn't medical advice. Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. If you take prescribed medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your GP or pharmacist before starting a supplement.