In fact, more than 57% of people now rely on social media for weight-loss advice instead of healthcare professionals.¹ Let’s break down some of the most common misconceptions spreading online:

A lot of the “weight-loss” injections you may hear about are GLP-1 medications. They work by mimicking a natural hormone in your body that helps regulate appetite and blood sugar². They work by⁶:

But here’s what matters most: They work on your body’s biology - not your willpower - and they are not for everyone. GLP-1 medications are prescribed by doctors for people who meet certain medical criteria, such as:

• Living with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m²) ²
• Overweight (BMI ≥27 kg/m²) with related conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure²

These are not medications for occasional weight loss before Eid or a vacation. They are part of a long-term medical plan.

Like other prescription-medications, taking GLP-1 medications without medical supervision can lead to unwanted side effects, including:

• Nausea and digestive discomfort
• Dehydration, which may affect kidney function
• Gallbladder problems or, in rare cases, pancreatitis
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially if taken incorrectly or in high doses

More importantly, using them without proper evaluation may mean ignoring underlying health conditions. Remember, what works for one person may not be safe for another.

Social media often paints us a false image of reality. You may come across multiple posts that show “before and after” photos with incredible transformations “achieved in just two weeks”, but those posts don’t depict the real path towards weight loss.

• Sustainable, healthy weight loss usually occurs at a pace of 0.5 to 1 kilogram per week.⁷
• Many people do not see major changes until 12–18 weeks.⁸
• The medication is a tool, not a solution. Without changes to how you eat and move, the weight often returns.

And despite our expectations even with GLP-1 therapy, you cannot eat unlimited kunafa and still expect to lose weight. To achieve optimal results, your doctor will advise you to:

• Focus on protein and vegetables first (before rice or bread).⁹
• Stay active with regular physical activity, such as daily walking, or with indoor exercises during the summer.⁹
• Keep hydrated with water, not sugary juices or soft drinks.¹⁰