TikTok Isn't Your Doctor: The Dangers of DIY Weight Loss

Social media is a big part of our lives, so it’s no surprise that people lean on their social networks for weight-loss advice. Scrolling through the popular video app TikTok, you’ll find a wide range of fitness and health content - and some of it is really amazing (like these hydration tips from our Registered Dietician Sharon George)!

However, we’ve seen a recent rise in people turning to TikTok for advice on weight-loss medication symptom relief. Read on to discover why Dr. TikTok may not be the best resource for this kind of information.

While oral and injectable weight-loss medications can be an effective short-term strategy, the long-term success and safety are still being researched and are unknown.

NYBG Offers Real Weight-Loss Expertise

A major issue with getting advice from social media is the lack of accountability and expertise. While content creators may mean well, many are not qualified medical professionals. Their advice is often based on personal experience, not scientific evidence. This can be dangerous because what works for one person, might not work for—or could even harm—another. That’s why seeking guidance from doctors within a medically-supervised weight-loss program, like the one at New York Bariatric Group, is a safer and far more effective option.

Our Team’s Tips for Battling Weight-Loss Medication Side Effects

Weight-loss medications can sometimes cause a range of side effects. As with any medication, it is always best to speak with your prescribing provider if you experience any side effects. Check out our team’s tips for battling some of these unpleasant symptoms.

Nausea

• Dr. Chiao: “Nausea can be quite common with weight loss medications. Usually, the symptoms are mild and can be improved by eating and drinking slowly and in small amounts, as well as eating and drinking the correct foods. If the symptoms persist, your doctor may prescribe medications to alleviate the symptoms. If the side effects are severe, the medications may need to be stopped completely.”
• Dr. Shah: “For patients experiencing nausea while taking weight loss medication, it’s important to maintain adequate hydration and have small, frequent meals throughout the day.”

Insomnia

• Dr. Sekhar: “The best treatments for insomnia with weight-loss medications apply to insomnia in other general situations as well. These treatments include maintaining a good sleep routine, such as avoiding screens within an hour of bedtime and reserving the bed exclusively for sleep, not for work or stress-inducing activities like paying bills online or scrolling through social media.”

Dizziness

• Dr. Sekhar: “Dizziness is often a symptom of dehydration, and patients are urged to drink at least 64 ounces of water per day when they’re undergoing any weight loss attempt, including surgery.”
• Dr. Glasnapp: “Make sure you are eating enough protein. Since these medications are very effective at curbing hunger, you may need to set an alarm to remind yourself to eat. Most people need between 80 and 100g of protein per day to prevent muscle loss and weakness or dizziness.”

Diarrhea

• Dr. Chiao: “Weight loss medications can occasionally cause diarrhea. Eating a high-protein diet and eating slowly is important in reducing these symptoms. Stopping when you’re full is important as well. If the symptoms persist, your doctor may prescribe medication for the diarrhea. In severe instances, the weight-loss medications may have to be stopped.”
• Dr. Glasnapp: “Diarrhea is usually self-limited, lasting a few days. Be sure to stay hydrated and avoid foods that can trigger diarrhea such as greasy or fried foods or foods high in sugar. Dairy products can also contribute to diarrhea.”

By following these expert tips, you can manage common side effects of weight-loss medications more effectively and maintain your weight-loss journey with greater comfort and success.

Scroll Past the Social Media Advice

Quick fixes on social media can lead to yo-yo dieting and frustration. At NYBG, we give you the tools and resources for lasting weight-loss success. There are no shortcuts or immediate solutions for weight loss. Trusting social media advice, especially for weight-loss medications, is risky and irresponsible. Instead, seek help from reputable medical professionals who offer evidence-based guidance and support.

NYBG’s medical weight-loss program is led by experienced healthcare professionals specializing in weight management. Patients undergoing treatment with oral and injectable weight-loss medications are closely monitored to ensure their safety and well-being. Any adverse reactions or complications can be promptly addressed by a team of experienced providers.

If you're considering embarking on a weight-loss journey, don't gamble with your health. Reach out to a trusted medical weight-loss program like the one at New York Bariatric Group. Your health and well-being are worth investing in – don't settle for anything less than the best.

New York Bariatric Group: Weight-Loss Leader 

NYBG is the leader in comprehensive weight-loss solutions. We are a one-stop shop, offering long-term weight-loss surgery as well as medically-supervised weight loss such as oral and injectable medications. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to losing weight. At NYBG, we work with you to customize a weight-loss program that will work best for you. 

Oral and injectable weight-loss medications have been shown to be an effective short-term strategy, but the long-term effects and safety is still unknown. With our Medical Weight Loss Program the ongoing supervision allows doctors to make necessary adjustments to a patient’s treatment plan based on their progress and changes to their health. 

Weight-loss surgery is the only proven long-term weight-loss solution. With decades of research, patients have seen sustainable weight loss. We offer multiple weight-loss surgery procedures and our doctors will work with you to find the right option. 

Our practice is the best around: 

• Over 30 surgeons who are leaders in bariatrics, plastic surgery, and medical weight loss. 
• 42,000 successful procedures performed with more being performed every day 
• The #1 gastric balloon practice by volume – most balloons placed in the United States
• Access to online seminars, support groups, cooking demos, and Q-and-A sessions
• 100s of videos for patients explaining procedures, answering common questions, and showcasing previous patients 
• Multiple offices located in three states; NY, NJ, CT 
• Offering in-person and virtual consultations 
• Since 2000, we boast over 23 years of success! 

All of our hospitals are Metabolic Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) accredited facilities, which is a prestigious designation bestowed upon only the top-quality bariatric programs. 

Stop waiting; start achieving better health today. Together, we’ve got this!