Latest news with #dehydration
The Sun
13 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."
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
Scientists urge Brits not to drink ORANGE JUICE during the UK heatwave
The UK heatwave is well and truly here, with today set to be the hottest day of the year so far. Temperatures across parts of the country will hit 32°C today, before similar highs tomorrow and then 33°C on Saturday. To cope with the heat, you might be tempted to reach for a delicious cold drink. But if you want to avoid dehydration, make sure it's not orange juice. That's according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), who have urged Brits to avoid fruit juices and smoothies during the heatwave. 'Fruit juice, smoothies and soft drinks can be high in sugar which dehydrates the body,' the UKHSA explained. 'Limit the amount of fruit juice or smoothies that you drink, and swap sugary soft drinks for diet, sugar-free or no added sugar varieties.' Instead, it's best to stick to water, diluted squash, or lower fat milks, the experts advise. Dehydration occurs when your body loses more fluids than it takes in. Worryingly, if left untreated, dehydration can lead to more serious issues including heatstroke, kidney failure, and even brain damage. To prevent dehydration during spells of hot weather, it's important to drink fluids regularly throughout the day - especially if you are active. 'You should drink enough that your pee is a pale straw colour,' the UKHSA advised. Sugary juices, smoothies and soft drinks aren't the only drinks that the experts advise against. Despite the temptation of a sunny beer garden, it's also wise to avoid alcohol. 'Alcohol has a dehydrating effect on the body, so it is a good idea to choose alcohol-free options, or alternate alcoholic drinks with a glass of water,' they added. The advice comes as the UKHSA activated yellow heat-health alerts for most of England, which will run until Sunday evening. The Government alerts warn of an increased use of healthcare services by vulnerable people and cover all regions of England apart from the North East and North West. An official heatwave is recorded when areas reach a certain temperature for three days in a row, with thresholds varying from 25°C to 28°C in different areas. The current warmest day of the year so far was last Friday when temperatures reached 29.4°C at Santon Downham in Suffolk. That broke the previous record for 2025 which stood at 29.3°C, recorded on May 1 at Kew Gardens in London. But records are unlikely to be broken this week for the UK's highest temperature in June, which was 35.6°C in Southampton during the historic heatwave of 1976. WHY YOU HAVE TO DRINK WATER Odell Beckham Jr, wide receiver for the New York Giants, said he doesn't like water. Water accounts for about 60 percent of the human body, including 90 percent of our blood. That's why it is essential for almost every bodily function to work effectively and smoothly. There is no consensus on how much water a day you should drink, but it is generally agreed that eight glasses of water a day is sensible. A FEW REASONS WHY WATER IS ESSENTIAL 1. For clear eyes and full hearts Water lubricates the eyes to keep them moist and help vision. It also pumps oxygen through the body, which is key for heart health. 2. To stay limber Cartilage is 80 percent water. Those who swap out water for soda have a higher risk of joint pain and injuries. 3. For clarity of thought The brain is used to a certain amount of water, and when it's dehydrated we get dizzy, slow of thought, with slower reactions. 4. To digest food Water is like gasoline for our bowels. Without it, stool doesn't break down properly, the stomach can fill with acid, increasing the risks of stomach ulcers, colon cancer, heartburn, constipation, and metabolism disorders. 5. Keeping blood pressure in check When the blood lacks water, it thickens, increasing blood pressure. WHAT IF YOU ONLY DRINK SODA? 1. Tooth decay Water is essential for flushing bacteria out of your mouth. Soda does a great job at loading up teeth with plaque. 2. Dehydration Most soda has caffeine in it, which is a diuretic and dehydrating. Because it's a diuretic, it means you need the toilet more than if you were drinking water, which also increases dehydration. 3. Poorer athletic performance A recent study showed dehydration and fluid loss worsens performance in any physical activity that lasts longer than 30 minutes. 4. Weight gain Even low-calorie sodas are no match for water when it comes to calories. Two Cokes, for example, will add 300 calories to your daily total. Even Diet Coke, with zero calories, affects your weight because the replacement sweetener, aspartame, has been shown to derail metabolism.
CTV News
2 days ago
- Climate
- CTV News
Edmonton adds more summer water stations
A water bottle filling station can be seen attached to a hydrant in Edmonton on July 6, 2024. (Galen McDougall/CTV News Edmonton) As we head into summer, Edmonton has added new water stations to ease the heat. New stations were added at Coronation Park and near Alex Taylor School downtown. Locations for the water stations are selected with input from community organizations, Alberta Health Services, Homeward Trust, Business Improvement Areas, the Edmonton Public Library and Edmonton Police Service. 'Having access to water is important during our hot summer months,' said Hani Quan, director of affordable housing and homelessness. 'Extreme heat disproportionately affects vulnerable groups in our communities, including children, the elderly, people with disabilities and those experiencing homelessness. 'Providing access to water stations is essential to preventing dehydration and keeping people safe during the hottest days.' Summer water stations will be available until Sept. 30. The program began in 2021 with just five stations; there are now 28 across the city. A map of water stations can be found here.
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
Americans told not to drink coffee in three states: 'Lethal in a matter of minutes'
Health officials have warned people living in the southwest to avoid drinking coffee due to 'dangerously hot conditions.' The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a statement this week about severe heatwaves in Nevada, California and Arizona, where temperatures are expected to hit up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 C) in the coming days. The agency said due to its caffeine, even iced coffee is a diuretic, meaning it tells the body to produce and pass more urine. Energy drinks and soda are also a risk. Increased urination causes the body to lose fluids, and if those fluids can't be replaced, the body becomes dehydrated. Without enough fluids, blood volume in the body diminishes, damaging the kidneys, heart, brain and other vital organs. The agency also cautioned against eating meals high in protein, as they naturally raise body temperature because the body needs to expend more energy to digest them. The warning comes as heat-related deaths in the US have doubled in the past 25 years and couple even triple in the next 50 due to gradually increasing temperatures. Even Alaska has issued its first-ever heat advisory, though temperatures are only expected to hit 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29 C). Around 1,200 Americans die from heat-related causes every year, though officials note the actual number could be 10-fold higher due to underreporting. NWS said parts of Arizona in the coming days could see 115-degree temperatures, while Death Valley National Park may see 120. In a post on X, NWS Las Vegas said today and tomorrow will be the area's hottest days of the week. In a list of 'don'ts' on a graphic, it warned: 'alcohol and caffeine can speed up dehydration.' Diuretic drinks like these tell the kidneys to release more water and produce more urine, which helps the body get rid of excess fluid. But in hot temperatures, the body is already losing fluid due to sweating, so diuretics could drain the body of fluids faster than they can be replaced. In response, blood volume decreases, which means not enough of it can flow to vital organs. This makes sweating, which cools the body down, less effective and makes the body's internal temperature increase. This leads to heat stroke, which causes nausea, vomiting, a rapid pulse, loss of consciousness and organ failure. The NWS also warned against meals high in protein. Compared to carbohydrates and fats, protein takes more energy to digest into amino acid, meaning the body burns more calories. This generates heat. Body temperature increases as a result, a process called diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT). This could explain why eating protein-rich foods might cause 'meat sweats.' Instead, NWS encouraged people in hot areas to 'drink plenty of water or sports drinks. Health authorities also suggest skipping steak and chicken and instead opting for foods with high water content like watermelon, berries, melons and cucumbers.
Daily Mail
3 days ago
- Daily Mail
Flight attendant reveals the drink she thinks you should never order on a plane
The arrival of the drinks trolley is usually a highlight of a long-haul flight. But a flight attendant has warned tourists that there's one drink you might not want to order next time you're a passenger. According to Sue Fogwell, a flight attendant for 22 years, a Bloody Mary is a bad idea on a plane. Her warning might come as a surprise to many as tomato juice is proven to taste better than usual once you're up in the air. This is because air pressure tends to make passengers crave acidity and saltiness, with tomato juice ticking both boxes. However Sue told Travel + Leisure that she'd definitely be giving a certain Bloody Mary mix a miss. The experienced cabin crew member says: 'Due to the very high sodium content, I always avoid drinking Mr & Mrs T Bloody Mary mix and tomato juice.' High sodium food and drinks could quickly make passengers feel dehydrated, particularly if they're on a long-haul flight. The vodka in a Bloody Mary could also dehydrate passengers with the NHS advising passengers to 'limit' how much alcohol they drink on a plane. But Sue has also warned travelers to give the tap water on a plane a miss. She revealed that she 'never' drank the tap water, also skipping the coffee and tea that's made with the water. The flight attendant explained that this is because the tap water comes from the plane's water tanks.
