Did you know that half a million people in the UK are relying on weight loss jabs? This prevalence isn’t only confined to this part of the world but is widespread across the globe. Previously, only used for managing type 2 diabetes, these injectables have rapidly gained popularity as a quick fix for shedding extra pounds.
If you’re also thinking of hopping on this bandwagon, then stop right there! This “quick fix” might be putting you at risk for many mental health problems, including eating disorders.
In today’s guide, we will break down everything you must know about weight loss jabs. From how these medications work to what hidden dangers they may pose, we have covered everything in this read.
What Are Weight Loss Jabs?
Weight loss jabs are injectable medications that regulate your appetite to keep your body functioning. However, these injections aren’t formulated specifically for weight loss. Instead, they are administered for managing medical conditions such as type 2 diabetes.
Now, any medication that isn’t used for its intended purpose will, of course, yield risks. Likewise, these medications may not pose much harm when used to manage type 2 diabetes. Conversely, when used regularly without medical supervision for weight loss, these injections can cause you to face serious health complications.
How Do Jabs Work
Weight loss jabs work by altering the hormones in our body that are responsible for making us feel hungry or full. Normally, when you’re eating food, your body naturally releases a hormone that tells you to stop when you’re full.
Weight loss jabs actually imitate this working mechanism of our body’s natural hormone. So, when you inject these medications, it slows down the rate at which the food leaves your stomach. As a result, you feel full for longer, and don’t feel the need to snack now and then.
Potential Risks of Using Weight Loss Jabs
Now, these weight loss medications may be beneficial for those losing weight, but they can also backfire, causing many complications. Why? Because these injectables disturb your hunger cues. Consequently, you may experience:
● Indigestion: Most people report bloating after taking weight loss jabs. This is because these medications slow down how quickly your stomach empties. Consistent use of them can make you feel full for too long, which can again be very unpleasant.
● Nausea or Vomiting: Nausea is one of the most common side effects of using weight loss medications. Some people cannot cope with the feelings of being full all the time and may end up being nauseous or may even throw up.
Nutritional Deficiencies: When one is feeling full and isn’t eating anything, he or she may, of course, develop nutritional deficiencies. This can further contribute to other conditions, including a weakened immune system, which is prone to infectious diseases.
● Psychological Strain: Constantly suppressing hunger can also cause you to fixate on avoiding food. Because of this, you may also develop anxiety or stress around eating or develop unhealthy eating habits.
● Heartburn: Medication-induced slow digestion can also result in acid reflux, which may cause an individual to skip meals altogether.
Weight Loss Jabs and Eating Disorders
Weight loss medications, in simpler terms, control our hunger. While many would like this modification, however, for lots this change may come at the cost of developing an unhealthy relationship with food. Imagine not having a healthy connection with something we literally survive on. Evidently, this can slowly and gradually lead to many other problems.
Now, this doesn’t mean that these medications should never be used for weight loss purposes. Yes, you can use them for cutting off some pounds, but under medical supervision. That way, if any complications or side effects occur can be treated right away.
Additionally, as these medications can cause complications when used constantly, a doctor can guide better about their use.
Signs Weight Loss Jabs Fuelling Your Eating Disorder
If you’re injecting weight loss jabs, you may not notice any side effects initially. Nevertheless, the longer you rely on them without proper guidance, the greater your chances of developing an eating disorder may become. So, how do you know when this medication is crossing the line? Here are some common signs your weight loss jabs might be fuelling your eating disorder:
Unusual Preoccupation With Food and Weight
Weight loss medications can play with your appetite and make you a picky eater. As a result, you may always find yourself thinking about what to eat, when to eat or how much you weigh. This constant preoccupation with uncertain thoughts can further weaken your relationship with food.
Feeling Guilty After Eating
Many people using weight loss jabs begin to link eating with failing their weight goals. Because of this mindset, such individuals often start to feel shame or guilt even after normal meals. Over time, these emotions can escalate, causing them to skip meals or purge. Being healthy and nourished must never come as a source of shame; if it does, take it as a warning sign.
Weight Loss Beyond Safe Limits
A healthy weight loss journey is slow, gradual, and most importantly, safe. If you or someone around you becomes extremely thin all of a sudden, then pause and check in with a doctor. Weight loss beyond a healthy BMI can take a serious toll on your health. It can damage the vital organs and even shut down your essential bodily functions.
Skipping Meals
When on weight loss jabs, you may begin to skip meals intentionally just to boost the medication’s effects. What you might not realise is that this behaviour can deprive your body of essential nutrients to keep it strong. If you’re already there, then understand your eating patterns aren’t healthy anymore.
Hiding or Misusing Injections
Have you increased your dose without consulting your doctor? Or are you hiding your injections from your loved ones? In either case, it means you’re not using the jabs responsibly. Make sure to never change your dose without getting in touch with your healthcare provider.
Avoiding Events Involving Food
Suddenly disliking going out for dinners, parties, or lunches because you’re afraid of eating? This is a strong sign that your relationship with food has been damaged severely. And isolation can make this situation even worse, so if you’re avoiding social gatherings, just reach out for expert help.
How to Stay Safe
To use weight loss jabs and remain on the safer side, ensure to:
● Contact a Healthcare Professional: Never start using jabs just because your friend or colleague is taking them. Always consult your doctor first about when and how to start the journey safely.
● Assess Your Mental Health Regularly: When injecting weight loss medications, notice your mental health condition. If you notice any unusual behaviour or urge, contact a professional immediately.
● Prioritise a Balanced Meal Plan: Being healthy should not overpower your goal of losing weight. Get in touch with an expert nutritionist to ensure your body gets a balanced diet full of vitamins, proteins, and minerals.
Final Verdict
To sum it up, weight loss jabs can be extremely effective for managing health conditions such as type 2 diabetes and obesity. However, the rule is that these medications must be used responsibly and under proper medical guidance. Remember, nothing can replace your long-term health, even your short-term weight loss goals.
