Latest news with #WorldObesityFederation
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Digital weight loss: How online Ozempic buyers bypass prescriptions
In a world chasing speed—fast food, fast fashion, fast tech—it's no surprise that quick slimming is the latest obsession. But the demand for rapid weight loss has opened a controversial new chapter in global health: the widespread use of prescription-only diabetes medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro for aesthetic purposes. These drugs, part of the GLP-1 class, were developed to help manage type 2 diabetes. Yet their dramatic side effect—substantial weight loss—has made them wildly popular among people with no underlying medical need. It's a trend health experts now warn could spiral into a global crisis. More than 1 billion people worldwide live with obesity, and over 830 million are managing diabetes. In Europe, over half the adult population is overweight, and 17% are clinically obese. The World Obesity Federation projects that by 2050, 60% of adults globally will fall into this category. GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Saxenda were designed to address these numbers through medical treatment. They regulate insulin levels, slow digestion and reduce appetite, helping some users shed up to 15% of their body weight. For people with obesity and related health conditions, these drugs are a breakthrough. But for others—especially the young and image-conscious—they've become a shortcut. A way to stay lean without diet or exercise. And in today's fast-paced, hyper-filtered world, many are willing to skip the medical justification entirely. Although legally restricted in most countries, Ozempic and similar drugs can often be obtained with alarming ease. A quick online search reveals dozens of websites offering 'digital consultations' where users simply fill out a questionnaire, upload an ID, and—often without ever speaking to a doctor—receive a prescription. In some countries, the process is even more relaxed. Online platforms may not require access to a user's official medical records, allowing anyone with basic Photoshop skills and a scale to potentially game the system. In others, local pharmacies bend the rules. In places like Poland, Turkey, Greece, and Kosovo, access through unofficial channels has been reported despite existing regulations. Related The slimming shot: What price are you willing to pay for a dream body? A thriving grey market fills the gaps. Private group chats on messaging apps function like digital black markets. In just minutes, users can browse listings, order, and pay for unregulated GLP-1 drugs—no questions asked, no prescription required. Users even post photos celebrating their arrivals, turning health risks into social memes. This growing off-label trend comes with serious consequences. GLP-1 medications aren't without risks—especially when misused or taken without medical supervision. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, loss of appetite and dehydration. More serious complications may include swelling of the pancreas, gallbladder disease which sometimes requires surgical removal, loss of muscle tissue, kidney injuries and hypoglycaemia, especially when combined with other medications. Thyroid tumours have been noted in some animal studies of the drugs. Then there's the risk of fakes. In 2023, authorities in Austria and the UK reported hospitalisations due to counterfeit Ozempic pens, some of which were found to contain insulin instead of semaglutide. The World Health Organization (WHO) has since issued a global alert over falsified versions of semaglutide found in the UK, US and Brazil. 'These counterfeits can be life-threatening,' warned WHO's Dr Yukiko Nakatani. 'We urge people to stop using suspicious products and report them immediately.' Despite growing awareness, enforcement lags behind. Messaging platforms where these drug sales take place continue to operate with minimal oversight. Closed groups named after "fitness" or "health" are often digital storefronts for illicit sales. Algorithms don't differentiate between helpful tips and harmful products—until someone gets hurt. This loophole highlights a growing regulatory blind spot. Health authorities may police pharmacies and clinics, but the world's most popular communication platforms remain largely unregulated terrain when it comes to drug trafficking. A European Commission spokesperson noted that under the EU's Digital Services Act online platforms have an obligation to protect consumers. The act requires users to be able to quickly report illegal content and products, obliges platforms to remove illicit goods and online marketplaces have to trace their traders. "The DSA obliges platforms to address risks of illegal content and goods being disseminated on their sites," and the Commission is monitoring compliance and won't hesitate to open further proceedings, according to the spokesperson. The rise of weight-loss drugs has ushered in a new dilemma for both medicine and society. These are powerful tools with potential to transform lives—but only when used safely, and for the right reasons. As regulators struggle to keep up with demand, tech companies and messaging platforms must also step up. Health isn't just a personal issue—it's a systemic one. And without stronger protections in place, the rush for fast fixes could leave a trail of long-term damage.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Digital weight loss - how online Ozempic buyers bypass prescriptions
Hacking the way to the prescription: digital black markets and remote consultations give an easy access to weight loss drugs In a world chasing speed—fast food, fast fashion, fast tech—it's no surprise that quick slimming is the latest obsession. But the demand for rapid weight loss has opened a controversial new chapter in global health: the widespread use of prescription-only diabetes medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro for aesthetic purposes. These drugs, part of the GLP-1 class, were developed to help manage type 2 diabetes. Yet their dramatic side effect—substantial weight loss—has made them wildly popular among people with no underlying medical need. It's a trend health experts now warn could spiral into a global crisis. More than a billion people worldwide live with obesity, and over 830 million are managing diabetes. In Europe, over half the adult population is overweight, and 17% are clinically obese. The World Obesity Federation projects that by 2050, 60% of adults globally will fall into this category. GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Saxenda were designed to address these numbers through medical treatment. They regulate insulin levels, slow digestion, and reduce appetite, helping some users shed up to 15% of their body weight. For people with obesity and related health conditions, these drugs are a breakthrough. But for others—especially the young and image-conscious—they've become a shortcut. A way to stay lean without diet or exercise. And in today's fast-paced, hyper-filtered world, many are willing to skip the medical justification entirely. Although legally restricted in most countries, Ozempic and similar drugs can often be obtained with alarming ease. A quick online search reveals dozens of websites offering 'digital consultations' where users simply fill out a questionnaire, upload an ID, and—often without ever speaking to a doctor—receive a prescription. In some countries, the process is even more relaxed. Online platforms may not require access to a user's official medical records, allowing anyone with basic Photoshop skills and a scale to potentially game the system. In others, local pharmacies bend the rules. In places like Poland, Turkey, Greece, and Kosovo, access through unofficial channels has been reported despite existing regulations. Related The slimming shot: What price are you willing to pay for a dream body? A thriving grey market fills the gaps. Private group chats on messaging apps function like digital black markets. In just minutes, users can browse listings, order, and pay for unregulated GLP-1 drugs—no questions asked, no prescription required. Users even post photos celebrating their arrivals, turning health risks into social memes. This growing off-label trend comes with serious consequences. GLP-1 medications aren't without risks—especially when misused or taken without medical supervision. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, loss of appetite and dehydration. More serious complications may include swelling of the pancreas, gallbladder disease which sometimes requires surgical removal, loss of muscle tissue, kidney injuries and hypoglycaemia, especially when combined with other medications. Thyroid tumours have been noted in some animal studies of the drugs. Then there's the risk of fakes. In 2023, authorities in Austria and the UK reported hospitalisations due to counterfeit Ozempic pens, some of which were found to contain insulin instead of semaglutide. The World Health Organization (WHO) has since issued a global alert over falsified versions of semaglutide found in the UK, US, and Brazil. 'These counterfeits can be life-threatening,' warned WHO's Dr. Yukiko Nakatani. 'We urge people to stop using suspicious products and report them immediately.' Despite growing awareness, enforcement lags behind. Messaging platforms where these drug sales take place continue to operate with minimal oversight. Closed groups named after "fitness" or "health" are often digital storefronts for illicit sales. Algorithms don't differentiate between helpful tips and harmful products—until someone gets hurt. This loophole highlights a growing regulatory blind spot. Health authorities may police pharmacies and clinics, but the world's most popular communication platforms remain largely unregulated terrain when it comes to drug trafficking. A European Commission spokesperson noted that under the EU's Digital Services Act online platforms have an obligation to protect consumers. The Act requires users to be able to quickly report illegal content and products, obliges platforms to remove illegal goods and online marketplaces have to trace their traders. "The DSA obliges platforms to address risks of illegal content and goods being disseminated on their sites," and the Commission is monitoring compliance and won't hesitate to open further proceedings, according to the spokesperson. The rise of weight-loss drugs has ushered in a new dilemma for both medicine and society. These are powerful tools with potential to transform lives—but only when used safely, and for the right reasons. As regulators struggle to keep up with demand, tech companies and messaging platforms must also step up. Health isn't just a personal issue—it's a systemic one. And without stronger protections in place, the rush for fast fixes could leave a trail of long-term damage.
Euronews
4 days ago
- Health
- Euronews
Digital weight loss - how online Ozempic buyers bypass prescriptions
Hacking the way to the prescription: digital black markets and remote consultations give an easy access to weight loss drugs In a world chasing speed—fast food, fast fashion, fast tech—it's no surprise that quick slimming is the latest obsession. But the demand for rapid weight loss has opened a controversial new chapter in global health: the widespread use of prescription-only diabetes medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro for aesthetic purposes. These drugs, part of the GLP-1 class, were developed to help manage type 2 diabetes. Yet their dramatic side effect—substantial weight loss—has made them wildly popular among people with no underlying medical need. It's a trend health experts now warn could spiral into a global crisis. More than a billion people worldwide live with obesity, and over 830 million are managing diabetes. In Europe, over half the adult population is overweight, and 17% are clinically obese. The World Obesity Federation projects that by 2050, 60% of adults globally will fall into this category. GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Saxenda were designed to address these numbers through medical treatment. They regulate insulin levels, slow digestion, and reduce appetite, helping some users shed up to 15% of their body weight. For people with obesity and related health conditions, these drugs are a breakthrough. But for others—especially the young and image-conscious—they've become a shortcut. A way to stay lean without diet or exercise. And in today's fast-paced, hyper-filtered world, many are willing to skip the medical justification entirely. Although legally restricted in most countries, Ozempic and similar drugs can often be obtained with alarming ease. A quick online search reveals dozens of websites offering 'digital consultations' where users simply fill out a questionnaire, upload an ID, and—often without ever speaking to a doctor—receive a prescription. In some countries, the process is even more relaxed. Online platforms may not require access to a user's official medical records, allowing anyone with basic Photoshop skills and a scale to potentially game the system. In others, local pharmacies bend the rules. In places like Poland, Turkey, Greece, and Kosovo, access through unofficial channels has been reported despite existing regulations. A thriving grey market fills the gaps. Private group chats on messaging apps function like digital black markets. In just minutes, users can browse listings, order, and pay for unregulated GLP-1 drugs—no questions asked, no prescription required. Users even post photos celebrating their arrivals, turning health risks into social memes. This growing off-label trend comes with serious consequences. GLP-1 medications aren't without risks—especially when misused or taken without medical supervision. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, loss of appetite and dehydration. More serious complications may include swelling of the pancreas, gallbladder disease which sometimes requires surgical removal, loss of muscle tissue, kidney injuries and hypoglycaemia, especially when combined with other medications. Thyroid tumours have been noted in some animal studies of the drugs. Then there's the risk of fakes. In 2023, authorities in Austria and the UK reported hospitalisations due to counterfeit Ozempic pens, some of which were found to contain insulin instead of semaglutide. The World Health Organization (WHO) has since issued a global alert over falsified versions of semaglutide found in the UK, US, and Brazil. 'These counterfeits can be life-threatening,' warned WHO's Dr. Yukiko Nakatani. 'We urge people to stop using suspicious products and report them immediately.' Despite growing awareness, enforcement lags behind. Messaging platforms where these drug sales take place continue to operate with minimal oversight. Closed groups named after "fitness" or "health" are often digital storefronts for illicit sales. Algorithms don't differentiate between helpful tips and harmful products—until someone gets hurt. This loophole highlights a growing regulatory blind spot. Health authorities may police pharmacies and clinics, but the world's most popular communication platforms remain largely unregulated terrain when it comes to drug trafficking. A European Commission spokesperson noted that under the EU's Digital Services Act online platforms have an obligation to protect consumers. The Act requires users to be able to quickly report illegal content and products, obliges platforms to remove illegal goods and online marketplaces have to trace their traders. "The DSA obliges platforms to address risks of illegal content and goods being disseminated on their sites," and the Commission is monitoring compliance and won't hesitate to open further proceedings, according to the spokesperson. The rise of weight-loss drugs has ushered in a new dilemma for both medicine and society. These are powerful tools with potential to transform lives—but only when used safely, and for the right reasons. As regulators struggle to keep up with demand, tech companies and messaging platforms must also step up. Health isn't just a personal issue—it's a systemic one. And without stronger protections in place, the rush for fast fixes could leave a trail of long-term damage. US President Donald Trump said that his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin told him "very strongly" in a phone call on Wednesday that he will respond to Ukraine's weekend drone attack on Russian airfields. "We discussed the attack on Russia's docked airplanes, by Ukraine, and also various other attacks that have been taking place by both sides," Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social. "It was a good conversation, but not a conversation that will lead to immediate Peace." The call reportedly lasted for an hour and 15 minutes and was Trump's first known contact with Putin since 19 May. In a briefing with government ministers earlier on Wednesday, Putin made no mention of Ukraine's audacious operation deep inside Russia on Sunday, instead referring only to an operation carried out by Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) on Tuesday which saw the Kerch Bridge damaged. The bridge is a key piece of Russian infrastructure illegally built by Moscow after its unilateral annexation of the Ukrainian peninsula in 2014. Putin referred to that attack as "certainly a terrorist act." However, Ukraine's SBU said the first explosion was timed to take place just before 5am when there were no civilians on or near the bridge. The Russian leader also questioned the value of faltering peace talks with Ukraine, accusing Kyiv of not being interested in peace. "What is there to talk about? How can we negotiate with those who rely on terror?" he said. The second round of face-to-face talks between Ukraine and Russia took place in Istanbul on Monday, with no major breakthrough made towards a lasting ceasefire. The two sides however agreed to another prisoner of war exchange, with Ukraine's Defence Minister Rustem Umerov saying seriously ill and young soldiers would be swapped. During the talks in Istanbul, Ukraine also gave Moscow officials a list of hundreds of Ukrainian children forcefully deported by Russia. "We are talking about hundreds of children whom Russia has illegally deported, forcibly transferred or is holding in the temporarily occupied territories. We are waiting for a response. The ball is in Russia's court," the head of Ukraine's presidential office Andriy Yermak said on Telegram. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said it took Kyiv "one year, six months, and nine days from the start of planning to effective execution" of the operation. Kyiv managed to smuggle FPV drones deep inside Russia and hide them inside trucks in mobile log cabins. The cabins' roofs were then opened remotely and the drones proceeded to launch their attack on Russian military bombers. Social media footage widely shared by Russian media appears to show the drones rising from inside containers, while the panels lie discarded on the road. On Wednesday, Zelenskyy said Kyiv would not have launched its drone strike on Russian strategic bombers if Moscow had accepted Kyiv's calls for a ceasefire. Zelenskyy said Ukraine has repeatedly urged Russia to accept the US-backed 30-day ceasefire proposal, which could be the first step to putting an end to Russia's all-out war against Ukraine. However during the second round of talks on Monday, Moscow rejected the proposal once again. "If there had been a ceasefire, would the operation have taken place? No," Zelenskyy explained, adding that roughly half of the planes will be impossible to repair, while others will require significant time to be put back into service. On Wednesday, Ukraine's security service (SBU) released new drone footage of Operation "Spiderweb," showing how exactly Kyiv struck 41 Russian heavy military bombers on Sunday. The footage shows Ukraine's first-person-view drones striking four Russian airfields: Dyagilevo in the Riazan region, Ivanovo in the Ivanovo region, Belaya air base in the Irkutsk region, located in south-eastern Siberia over 4,000km east of the frontline, and Olenya air base in Russia's Murmansk region, some 2,000km away from Ukraine's border. Kyiv said these were the airfields where Russian strategic aviation "had been based". The damaged aircraft include A-50, Tu-95, Tu-22, Tu-160, as well as An-12 and Il-78. Moscow uses these heavy bombers for daily attacks on Ukrainian cities. The SBU also revealed that it used a modern UAV control technology during this operation. It combined autonomous artificial intelligence algorithms and manual operator interventions. Ukraine's security service says some of the UAVs lost signal and would switch to an artificial intelligence-assisted mission following a pre-planned route. The warhead then automatically detonated as it approached and made contact with a specific target. Earlier, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that 117 drones had been used in Operation Spiderweb, each with its own pilot. The General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces confirmed on Tuesday that Russia lost 41 military aircraft.
Al Jazeera
30-05-2025
- Business
- Al Jazeera
Can we reverse the obesity epidemic?
Obesity has become one of the most rapidly escalating health crises of our time. The World Obesity Federation says one billion people will be overweight by 2030, twice as many as in 2010. This epidemic goes far beyond individual choices or diet. It is fuelled by entrenched social inequalities, the far-reaching influence of the food industry and systemic obstacles that make healthy living increasingly difficult. Presenter: Stefanie Dekker Guests: Ogweno Stephen – World Obesity Federation Dr Rocio Salas-Whalen – Endocrinologist Adrian Scarlett – Content Creator
AsiaOne
25-05-2025
- Health
- AsiaOne
Obesity rates are rising in Singapore, but is overeating the only cause?, Lifestyle News
Obesity is on the rise in Singapore, with recent studies revealing a worrying trend. The 2021/2022 National Population Health Survey by the Ministry of Health showed that the prevalence of obesity among adults aged 18 to 74 in Singapore had increased from 2020 to 2022. The World Obesity Federation has also reported that our nation now ranks third among Asian countries in terms of adult obesity percentage. According to the National University Health System (NUHS), obesity is a chronic disease caused by having too much body fat, and can increase the risk of several other medical conditions. An article by Harvard Health in 2019 explained that there are several factors that can contribute to a person becoming overweight — from genetic factors to diet, lifestyle and stress. Speaking to AsiaOne, Dr Wong Hui Mei, principal dietitian at Gleneagles Hospital, shared that one of the biggest dietary contributors to the rising obesity rates in Singapore is the increased convenience and affordability of ultra-processed food such as fast food, ready-to-eat meals and sugary beverages. "These foods are high in calories, high in fat and sugar, low in nutrients, and may lack balanced nutrition. They're also more affordable than healthier alternatives. This makes it harder for individuals to make nutritious choices," she stated. Her statement is echoed by Dr Koh Huilin, a consultant in Endocrinology at Woodlands Health, who told AsiaOne: "We have an obesogenic (tending to cause obesity) environment where local delights tend to be high calorie-density food with high carbohydrates and high fat, as well as ultra-processed foods that are available 24/7 and rather inexpensive." And other than diet and lifestyle, are there any other factors that could affect a person's weight? How Singapore's physical and cultural environment plays a part According to Dr Koh, there are several factors that come into play, including things like physical and cultural environment — especially in the context of Singapore. "Our humid weather makes it unattractive to exercise outdoors despite the many green spaces and park connectors being developed. Our stressful work culture with long hours take time away from self-care amidst other familial roles such as caregiving. It can also lead to poor quality sleep or insomnia. Poor sleep with inadequate hours or poor quality can lead to increased hunger, cravings and reduced metabolism," she explained. The impact of medical conditions on obesity In addition to these external factors, Dr Anuradha Negi, specialist in Endocrinology and senior consultant at Raffles Diabetes and Endocrine Centre, shares that there are also several medical conditions that contribute to obesity. "Several endocrine disorders such as hyperthyroidism, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), Cushing's syndrome and growth hormone deficiencies can lead to weight gain or make weight loss harder," she told AsiaOne. Mental health's part in obesity On top of that, mental health also plays a part, as explained by Dr Wong, who said that many often turn to overeating as a way to cope with high levels of stress — which often results in consuming excessive calories. This is also backed by Dr Precelia Lam, general practitioner at Raffles Medical, who shared with AsiaOne: "Stress, anxiety and depression can lead to emotional eating, binge-eating or poor food choices. Some people turn to food for comfort, especially high-sugar or high-fat options for the 'dopamine hit'." The role of prescribed medications The idea that certain medications can cause weight gain isn't just a myth, either. According to Dr Koh, some prescribed medications used to treat psychiatric and chronic conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune conditions or acute asthma attacks (steroids) may lead to weight gain, and chronic use of anti-histamines can also "make one susceptible for weight gain". She also noted that certain medications used to treat diabetes like insulin, sulphonylrea and thiazolidinediones can result in weight gain, but more as a "physiologic response rather than an abnormal weight gain". Dr Koh also added that conversely, some medications used in chronic disease management can help with weight loss. "That said, medications are selected and tailored by one's doctor to best treat the underlying condition, hence they should not be stopped without consultation with your doctor," the endocrinologist said. Genetic and ethnic factors At times, we might observe that some people tend to lose or gain weight easily while for others, it might be tougher — even when they seemingly consume the same amount of food. According to Dr Negi, this is because genetics also affect whether a person is more prone to obesity. "Genetics play a role in how the body regulates appetite, converts food into calories, and how your body burns calories during exercise," she explained. She also added that ethnicity also has a hand in it all, with certain ethnic groups such as South Asians and East Asians having a tendency to have higher visceral fat at a lower BMI. Dr Abel Soh, endocrinologist at Woodlands Health, also seconded that genetics and ethnicity are contributing factors to obesity. "At least 15 genes have been found that can contribute to a person becoming obese. In Singapore, ethnic groups like Malays and Indians have higher rates of obesity compared to the Chinese, likely due to a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors," he stated. Health implications of obesity Regardless of the cause — obesity often comes with health implications which can significantly increase the risk of serious and chronic conditions. Speaking to AsiaOne, Dr Tham Kwang Wei, senior consultant in Endocrinology at Woodlands Health, said that obesity is currently associated with 265 medical conditions and diseases, which reflects "the degree to which excess body fat can cause havoc to one's body". And while it affects everyone differently to a certain extent because of how fat is distributed, how the body reacts to excess fat and different lifestyles, it doesn't mean that the risks that come with obesity are any less significant. "If one does not have any medical issues at present related to obesity, that person still remains at risk," she warned. According to Dr Lam, some chronic health problems associated with obesity include: High blood pressure High cholesterol Type 2 diabetes Cardiovascular disease Stroke But that's not all. "One growing concern is sleep apnoea, which causes trouble breathing and poor overall health. Joint and mobility problems [also] arise from extra weight being put on joints, causing osteoarthritis and lower back pain. Obesity is also linked to higher risk of certain cancers like breast, colon and liver cancer," the GP warned. Additionally, Dr Wong shared that fatty liver is also one of the health conditions associated with obesity. Experts' advice on tackling obesity For those struggling with obesity, it's not only important to get to a healthy weight — but to lose the weight healthily and in a safe manner to reduce the health risks. Dr Wong suggests calorie counting to lose weight — explaining that it's an important factor even when consuming nutritious foods as it's still possible to take in more calories than the body needs when doing so — which would ultimately hinder weight loss. "It's also crucial to focus on sustainability and practicality. The best approach is one that you can maintain in the long term without feeling overwhelmed. Extreme calorie restriction or over-exercising can be difficult to sustain and might lead to burnout," she added. She also explained that if you continue to struggle with losing weight despite that, "it's a good idea to consult a healthcare professional" as "they can help identify any underlying health conditions" and "offer personalised advice and support" in order to help reach your weight loss goals safely and effectively. To those who are struggling to lose weight, Dr Lam also advises that it's important to recognise that "weight loss is often non-linear". She stated that plateaus happen when trying to lose weight, and it's okay — because "the goal is not perfection, but progress and persistence." "You're not alone, and you're not a failure. Obesity is a complex, chronic condition, and treating it requires support, compassion and realistic strategies. You don't have to run marathons. Dancing, walking, swimming or even gardening counts. Movement should feel energising, not punishing. Consistency beats intensity," she encouraged. The GP also warned against buying into fad diets and pseudoscience online. "If something sounds to good to be true, for example, losing 10kg in a week, it probably is," she said. For those who aren't sure where to start, Loh Win Nie, vice president of the Singapore Nutrition and Dietetics Association, also shared simple tips that may "make a difference in managing weight and building healthier habits without needing a total lifestyle overhaul", including: Asking for more vegetables when eating out (make at least half your plate plant-based) Choosing plain drinks more often (go for plain or sparkling water, or ordering less-sugar versions of your favourite drinks) Eating slower to feel fuller as it takes time for our brains to register fullness Not waiting until you're starving to eat as it's more likely to lead to overeating or unhealthy fast fixes Watching portions, not just food choices as even healthy food can lead to weight gain in excess Moving in short bursts throughout the day (take the stairs, brisk 10-minute walks after meals or stretch between meetings) Finally, she expressed that it's also crucial not to be too hard on yourself on your weight loss journey. "Last but not least, be kind to yourself. Change takes time. It is okay to enjoy your favourite food once in a while. The goal is not to restrict, but to find a healthier rhythm that works for you in the long run. Small, consistent changes make the biggest impact. It's not about dieting; it is about learning what works for your lifestyle and taking steps that are realistic and sustainable," she concluded. As for those who are struggling to lose weight on top of certain medical conditions and medications, Dr Koh advised that it's a good idea to consult a doctor or healthcare professional. "Best to seek help from medical professionals for guidance as one's overall health condition, along with the obesity, needs to be managed comprehensively and holistically. For example, some medications may not be suitable for people on certain medications or [with] certain conditions," she stated. [[nid:620048]]
