How Food Impacts Orlistat | Pharmacy2U

How does orlistat work?

Orlistat works by targeting enzymes in the digestive system that are responsible for breaking down fat. By binding to gastric and pancreatic lipase enzymes in the stomach and small intestine, some of the fat you eat isn't broken down as efficiently and can't be fully absorbed by your body. This unabsorbed fat then passes through your digestive system and exits your body in your stools. If you reduce your fat levels, then your body doesn’t store it as weight on your body.

Why the food you eat matters

Based on how orlistat works in the stomach, it may be becoming clear why the food you eat can influence how it works. If you consume a meal low in fat, orlistat has less impact because there's less fat for it to target. On the other hand, a high-fat meal presents orlistat with too much fat to manage, which can sometimes lead to side effects like oily stools and an upset stomach. What is the ideal diet then?

Orlistat diet

To optimise orlistat's effectiveness, it’s recommended that you follow a balanced diet which is moderate in fat. Some tips for healthy eating include:

• Portion control: Focus on sensible portion sizes, especially for foods high in fat, such as fried items, processed meats, and full-fat cheeses.

• Lean protein choices: Choose lean protein sources like grilled chicken, fish, or beans to feel fuller for longer without the extra fat. Protein also helps maintain muscle mass, which can contribute to a healthy metabolism.

• Increase fibre intake: Include plenty of fibre-rich fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet. These foods promote feelings of fullness and aid digestion.

• Healthy fats: Don't eliminate all fat from your diet. Include healthy fats from foods like nuts, avocados, and olive oil in moderation. These provide essential nutrients and can also help you feel satisfied, reducing cravings for unhealthy snacks.

Orlistat foods to avoid

High-fat meals can overwhelm orlistat, leading to side effects like oily stools, an upset stomach, and loose stools. 

Although you don’t have to fully cut out any foods, you should be mindful of eating food such as:

• Fried food (fried chicken, fries).

• Fatty meats (sausages, burgers).

• Full-fat dairy products (cheese, milk, cream).

• Cake and chocolate.

You can still enjoy occasional treats, but focusing on a balanced diet with the recommended amount of healthy fats will help you get the most out of orlistat and manage your weight effectively. If you’d like to speak to someone about how to consume the best diet on orlistat, get in contact with your pharmacist or doctor.

Tips on how to reduce fat intake

Some small changes to your diet can help to reduce your overall fat intake, such as:

• Choose low-fat versions of dairy products e.g., milk, yoghurt, and cheese.

• Cut down on oils when cooking, you may benefit from grilling or steaming food instead of frying.

• Choose meats that have less fat and are leaner like grilled chicken or fish.

• Avocado provides your body with healthy fat and can act as a substitute for mayonnaise on sandwiches or salads.