Avoid 'quick fix diets and tea-toxes' - NHS England medical director

NHS England medical director warns against quick fix diets and tea-toxes
Image Source

NHS England's medical director Stephen Powis has said that people looking to lose weight should avoid quick fix diets because they do not work and can be harmful.

According to Professor Stephen Powis, medical director at National Health Service (NHS) England, diet pills, "tea-toxes" and appetite suppressant products, as well as fad diets, are no quick fix to weight loss.

ADVERTISEMENT

Powis warned that products making this claim can have side-effects, such as diarrhea and heart issues. He emphasized that it takes time to get in shape safely and requires eating sensibly and exercise.

Additionally. Powis also issued a warning on the dangers of "party drips" or quick fix hangover cures. In 2018, model Kendall Jenner was taken to the hospital after a bad reaction to a nutrient therapy IV drip, composed of saline solution, magnesium, calcium, B vitamins and vitamin C.

Professor Powis pointed out: "Miracle hangover cures and quick fixes simply don't exist, and anyone online who says they do is probably out to make a quick buck at your expense."

ADVERTISEMENT

He added: "New Year resolutions are a great time to make a change, but the reality is there's a slim chance of success with diet pills and detox teas - and people could end up doing more harm than good. Making New Year goals and shifting a few excess pounds after Christmas can be a good idea, but are much easier to maintain when done gradually and safely."

According to the British Dietetic Association (BDA), people should avoid diets that promote a magic ingredient or product to address weight problems, without having to change their lifestyle in any way.

The BDA added that any diet promising rapid weight loss of more than 2 pounds of body fat a week is dubious, as well as those that often promote eating only one type of food or avoiding whole food groups.

ADVERTISEMENT