The Hidden Risks of Weight-Loss Injections
Weight-loss injections have become a popular choice for individuals seeking to shed excess body fat. However, recent warnings from experts suggest that these treatments may come with unexpected consequences. According to a new review, the use of weight-loss jabs can lead to a significant loss of lean body mass, which is equivalent to aging the body by a decade. This loss of muscle mass poses serious risks, particularly for middle-aged and older adults.
The review highlights that while weight-loss injections offer several benefits, including reducing the risk of death in heart patients by up to half, they also carry potential dangers when not accompanied by proper exercise. Experts warn that individuals taking these medications without incorporating strength training into their routines could experience a loss of muscle mass that mimics the effects of aging or even certain medical treatments like bariatric surgery or cancer therapy.
One study found that even those who exercised for 150 minutes a week and maintained a 500-calorie deficit still lost around 11% of their lean mass. Dr. Gillian Hatfield, who led the review at the University of the Fraser Valley in Canada, emphasized that this level of muscle loss is concerning. She stated, “This magnitude of lean body mass loss is similar to bariatric surgery, cancer treatment, or approximately ten years of ageing.”
In addition to muscle loss, other studies revealed that between 20% and 50% of weight lost through these medications was not from fat but rather from lean body mass. This means that users might be losing more than just fat, which can lead to frailty and an increased risk of falls.
Recommendations for Safer Use
To mitigate these risks, the report commissioned by fitness company Les Mills recommends that individuals taking weight-loss injections should incorporate strength training exercises two to three times a week. It also advises them to engage in 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per week.
Bryce Hastings, head of research at Les Mills, explained the importance of strength training. He said, “Regular strength training is vital to our health at all stages of life, but this is especially true for people taking weight-loss medications. In addition, it’s recommended that people accumulate 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per week. Studies have shown this helps continue fat loss during treatment and lessen weight regain after treatment has stopped.”
A Call for Collaboration
The review, which is one of the first to examine the impact of weight-loss medications on lean body mass, calls for collaboration among the government, health sector, and fitness industry. The goal is to better support individuals using these treatments and ensure they are aware of the potential risks.
Additional Concerns
Experts have raised concerns about other possible side effects of weight-loss injections. Some question whether these medications could lead to malnutrition and serious deficiencies. There are also reports of alarming incidents, such as 100 deaths linked to slimming injections in the UK.
While some argue that weight-loss shots may help reduce harmful muscle fat, others caution that they could jeopardize overall strength and health. As the debate continues, it is clear that a balanced approach—combining medication with proper exercise and nutrition—is essential for safe and effective weight loss.