Weight-loss pills may lead to flatulence, a new study finds

Weight loss has become a concern in the face of rising cases of obesity worldwide. While some take the natural route by following a healthy diet, regular fitness regime and healthy lifestyle habits, others resort to weight loss drugs to lose weight. Although these drugs are recommended by doctors, are weight loss drugs safe for you? A new study has found that taking these pills regularly increases the risk of gastrointestinal conditions such as gastroparesis or stomach paralysis.

Weight loss pills have been linked to stomach cramps

Ever wonder if the weight loss pills you’re taking are safe for your health? A trio of studies recently presented at Digestive Disease Week 2024 in the US examined data to understand the side effects of weight loss pills like Ozempic.

First study Researchers at the University of Kansas found that glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1) drugs, including semaglutide (Ozempic and Vegovi), twincretin drugs, and more, increased the risk of developing gastroparesis by 66 percent. People taking them. Gastroparesis is a paralysis of the stomach that affects the nerves and muscles of the stomach. The research included patient data for which GLP-1 was prescribed for diabetes or obesity between 2021 and 2022.

in A second study, researchers screened more than 3,00,000 people to analyze the prevalence of gastroparesis in type 2 diabetes patients on GLP-1 or twincretin drugs. The researchers tracked the patients’ data for 3 months to 2 years and made one-to-one comparisons with those who did not use these weight loss pills. At 3 months, the groups showed similar results. However, the GLP-1 groups had an increased risk of gastroparesis. After 18 months the risk increased to 25 percent.

The A third study Over 80,000 patients prescribed GLP-1 were included, focusing on 839 who underwent gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES) examinations. GES is a key method for assessing gastric emptying. One-third of these patients had food in their stomach 4 hours after their meal, indicating gastroparesis. Of these, 127 had gastrointestinal symptoms, while 38 had documented gastric emptying earlier.

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This analysis suggests a potential association between GLP-1 medication and the development of gastroparesis in type 2 diabetes patients, highlighting the importance of monitoring and further research on long-term effects.

Weight loss pills may not be the solution!

Weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy may not be available in India, but there are other drugs with the same composition available in the country. However, it is best to stay away from weight loss pills and try natural methods to lose weight.

“Nonpharmacological methods generally provide safer alternatives. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight requires a healthy diet, regular exercise, and long-term lifestyle changes. These methods help people lose weight and improve their overall health and well-being without the side effects of certain medications. Effective and safe weight management includes comprehensive, A customized program is required,” says nutritionist Dr Rohini Patil.

Also Read: Otzempic Challenge: Is the Weight Loss Trend Effective?

What is gastroparesis or stomach paralysis?

Abdominal paralysis (also known as gastroparesis) is a condition in which the movements of the stomach are impaired, making it difficult for food to pass through the digestive tract. This delays digestion, leading to discomfort and potential complications.

It is sometimes divided into three categories depending on the cause of the problem. Gastroparesis that occurs as a side effect of diabetes is called diabetes-related gastroparesis. When it occurs as a complication of surgery, it is referred to as postoperative gastroparesis and when the cause is not clear, it is called idiopathic gastroparesis.

What are the symptoms of gastroparesis?

According to the Mayo Clinic, signs of this gastrointestinal problem may include:

While these are common signs of gastroparesis, symptoms can vary in severity among individuals and may worsen over time if left untreated.

How is gastroparesis treated?

Treatment of gastroparesis includes various strategies to help reduce symptoms and improve stomach function. First, you need to make some dietary adjustments and eat foods that are low in fat and high in fiber. Your doctor may also prescribe certain medications to stimulate stomach contractions and ease symptoms. It is best to consult a doctor to determine the best course of action to determine which treatment is best for your condition.