Latest news with #DrFranksWeightLossClinic
The Sun
14 hours ago
- Health
- The Sun
The hidden dangers of Ozempic-like fat jabs in hot weather – and ‘double whammy' side effect that can prove fatal
WEIGHT loss jabs have been hailed for their rapid and drastic results, particularly for those who've tried and failed time and again on 'fad diets'. But like all medicines, the jabs don't come without risk of side effects - one of which could rear its ugly head in this glorious weather. 5 5 5 For the 1.5 million people in the UK estimated to now be using weight loss injections - primarily through online providers - doctors have warned extra caution needs to be taken during hot weather. The Met Office predicts that a heatwave is looking likely this weekend - with temperatures exceeding 30C in parts of the UK. While many Brits will be looking forward to basking in the scorching heat, patients taking weight loss jabs risk dehydration. Dehydration can lead to a range of health risks, from mild discomfort to serious complications, such as heatstroke, urinary and kidney problems, seizures, and low blood volume shock. If severe and left untreated, dehydration can even lead to death. Professor Franklin Joseph, consultant physician and head of Dr Frank's Weight Loss Clinic, tells Sun Health: "Weight loss injections don't just suppress your appetite - they also blunt your thirst. 'People forget to drink because they don't feel hungry or thirsty. But your body still needs fluid - and when you're eating less, you're also getting less hydration from food. It's a double whammy. "If you're not replacing that fluid, it can creep into mild dehydration quickly - especially in hot weather or during exercise.' Dr Suzanne Wylie, GP and medical adviser for IQdoctor, adds: "The common side effects associated with these medications, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea, can also lead to a significant loss of fluids." Hot weather exacerbates the dehydration, warns Prof Joseph. Weight Loss Jabs - Pros vs Cons He says: 'When it's hot, you're sweating more - but if the jab is dulling your thirst, you don't feel the urge to replace what you've lost. 'That's when the danger kicks in - headaches, dizziness, low blood pressure, even fainting. 'Your body can't cool itself properly, and things can go downhill fast. "Heat makes dehydration risks ten times worse. It's even more important to stay on top of fluids during summer if you're using weight loss medication.' In the hot weather, certain groups are at greater risk of dehydration, including older adults, babies and young children, people with chronic illness (like heart or kidney problems), those on certain medications, and individuals who are physically active in the heat. In addition to heat stroke and kidney problems, dehydration can contribute to the development of gallstones by reducing bile flow and concentrating bile in the gall bladder. Dr Crystal Wyllie at Asda Online Doctor explains: "Gallstones are an uncommon side effect of weight loss medication and are associated with rapid weight loss, being dehydrated can increase the risks of developing gallstones, so it's important that you remain adequately hydrated." Other health risks to watch out for... 5 If you're eating less, drinking less, and sweating more, your body can hit empty, warned Prof Joseph. "Add in heat and you're asking for trouble - fatigue, cramps or even passing out," he added. George Sandhu, Deputy Superintendent at Well Pharmacy, warned even mild dehydration can negatively impact your energy levels. He said: "This can have a knock on effect on your ability to do physical activity and your overall well being, not to mention have a negative effect on your weight loss efforts." Some weight loss medications can also cause photosensitivity, he warned, increasing the risk of sunburn and skin damage. He cautioned: "It's important to be fully aware of the potential side effects of taking any medication, including weight loss drugs." What are the other side effects of weight loss jabs? Like any medication, weight loss jabs can have side effects. Common side effects of injections such as Ozempic include: Nausea: This is the most commonly reported side effect, especially when first starting the medication. It often decreases over time as your body adjusts. Vomiting: Can occur, often in conjunction with nausea. Diarrhea: Some people experience gastrointestinal upset. Constipation: Some individuals may also experience constipation. Stomach pain or discomfort: Some people may experience abdominal pain or discomfort. Reduced appetite: This is often a desired effect for people using Ozempic for weight loss. Indigestion: Can cause a feeling of bloating or discomfort after eating. Serious side effects can also include: Pancreatitis: In rare cases, Ozempic may increase the risk of inflammation of the pancreas, known as pancreatitis, which can cause severe stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. Kidney problems: There have been reports of kidney issues, including kidney failure, though this is uncommon. Thyroid tumors: There's a potential increased risk of thyroid cancer, although this risk is based on animal studies. It is not confirmed in humans, but people with a history of thyroid cancer should avoid Ozempic. Vision problems: Rapid changes in blood sugar levels may affect vision, and some people have reported blurry vision when taking Ozempic. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): Especially if used with other medications like sulfonylureas or insulin. 5 How to stay safe For those using weight loss jabs, Dr Wylie says it's imperative to make sure you're drinking enough water. She explains: "It's important to drink more water than usual when taking weight-loss medication. "Adults should aim for around two to three litres per day. This can include plain water, squash, herbal teas, or other low-sugar drinks. "Staying hydrated helps your body manage the side effects and supports your overall health during weight loss treatments." Prof Joseph adds: "Don't wait until you're thirsty - by then, you're already behind. Carry a big bottle with you everywhere, set reminders, and sip little and often. 'You need to hydrate slowly and consistently through the day, not chug a bottle all at once. Your body absorbs water better that way and it helps avoid energy crashes or headaches linked to dehydration. "I recommend adding electrolytes once a day - especially in hot weather or if you're on a lower calorie diet. "They help your body hold onto the water and replace lost minerals. And try not to rely on tea or coffee - they can be dehydrating too.' And looking out for signs of dehydration is also important. Dr Wylie advises: "Check your urine. It should be a pale yellow colour and darker urine may be a sign you need more fluids."
The Sun
08-05-2025
- Health
- The Sun
The 5 signs you're just losing water weight and NOT fat – as doctor warns of common diet mistake
A DOCTOR has warned that some people celebrating dramatic weight loss may not actually be losing fat - but water weight instead. While the number on the scales might be going down, what you're really losing in those first few days might not be what you think. 3 According to Professor Franklin Joseph of Dr Frank's Weight Loss Clinic, it's common to drop a few pounds quickly when starting a new diet - but this often isn't the long-term fat loss people are aiming for. 'Rapid weight loss in the first week or two is often just water,' Prof Joseph explained. 'It can feel motivating, but it's important to understand what's actually happening in the body - otherwise you'll be left confused or disappointed later on.' Here, Prof Joseph shares five tell-tale signs your weight loss is mostly water - and how to know when you're really burning fat. 1. You've lost weight very quickly If you find yourself dropping 2-3kg in the first few days, it's likely water. Prof Joseph says: 'True fat loss happens more gradually - usually around half a kilo to a kilo per week, depending on your body size.' He explains that cutting carbs or calories suddenly causes your body to shed stored glycogen - which is bound to water - leading to a sudden "flush" of weight. 2. Your clothes fit the same Water loss doesn't tend to change your shape much, Prof Joseph said. He added: 'If you're still squeezing into the same jeans but the scale has moved, it's a sign it's not fat loss yet.' True fat loss leads to inch loss - particularly around the waist, hips and face. I lost almost a stone in just six days and here's the exact list of delicious meals I ate which never left me hungry 3. You're constantly needing the loo 3 Frequent urination is a classic sign of water loss, said Prof Joseph. 'If you've suddenly gone from visiting the toilet a few times a day to rushing off every hour, it's likely your body is shedding excess fluid,' he advised. 4. You feel flatter, not firmer 'A lot of people say they feel 'deflated' rather than leaner,' Prof Joseph said. 'That soft, empty feeling is water leaving your tissues – not fat burning off.' Fat loss, by contrast, tends to come with better muscle tone and more energy. 5. Your weight bounces back easily 3 If you have one higher-carb meal or a salty takeaway and suddenly gain a kilo overnight, that's a water rebound, said Prof Joseph. He added: 'Fat doesn't come back that quickly - but water does.' So how do you know when you're actually burning fat? The real signs of fat loss tend to be more gradual. 'Clothes fitting better, more energy, and small, steady drops on the scale that don't bounce around too much," Prof Joseph said. His advice? 'Don't be discouraged by slow progress - it's a good thing. "Fat loss is meant to be steady. Water weight is easy come, easy go - but fat loss that lasts is worth the wait.' The NHS 12-step plan to help you lose weight FROM faddy diets to dodgy detoxes - most of us have heard it all before when it comes to weight loss. But burning fat can be easy and mostly free. In fact, the NHS has a whole load of medically-approved tips for weight loss and shedding body fat once and for all... Don't skip breakfast Skipping breakfast will not help you lose weight. You could miss out on essential nutrients and you may end up snacking more throughout the day because you feel hungry. Eat regular meals Eating at regular times during the day helps burn calories at a faster rate. It also reduces the temptation to snack on foods high in fat and sugar. Eat plenty of fruit and veg Fruit and veg are low in calories and fat, and high in fibre – 3 essential ingredients for successful weight loss. They also contain plenty of vitamins and minerals. Get more active Being active is key to losing weight and keeping it off. As well as providing lots of health benefits, exercise can help burn off the excess calories you cannot lose through diet alone. Drink lots of water People sometimes confuse thirst with hunger. You can end up consuming extra calories when a glass of water is really what you need. Eat high fibre foods Foods containing lots of fibre can help keep you feeling full, which is perfect for losing weight. Fibre is only found in food from plants, such as fruit and veg, oats, wholegrain bread, brown rice and pasta, and beans, peas and lentils. Read food labels Knowing how to read food labels can help you choose healthier options. Use the calorie information to work out how a particular food fits into your daily calorie allowance on the weight loss plan. Use a smaller plate Using smaller plates can help you eat smaller portions. By using smaller plates and bowls, you may be able to gradually get used to eating smaller portions without going hungry. It takes about 20 minutes for the stomach to tell the brain it's full, so eat slowly and stop eating before you feel full. Don't ban foods Do not ban any foods from your weight loss plan, especially the ones you like. Banning foods will only make you crave them more. There's no reason you cannot enjoy the occasional treat as long as you stay within your daily calorie allowance. Don't stock junk food To avoid temptation, do not stock junk food – such as chocolate, biscuits, crisps and sweet fizzy drinks – at home. Instead, opt for healthy snacks, such as fruit, unsalted rice cakes, oat cakes, unsalted or unsweetened popcorn, and fruit juice. Cut down on alcohol A standard glass of wine can contain as many calories as a piece of chocolate. Over time, drinking too much can easily contribute to weight gain. Plan your meals Try to plan your breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks for the week, making sure you stick to your calorie allowance. You may find it helpful to make a weekly shopping list.
