Sharjah, UAE- October 2024- Experts have cautioned that weight loss injections are not a magic solution, and not all protein supplements are risk-free; during a session titled ‘Between Strength and Agility: Facts About Proteins and Weight Loss Injections,’ on Day 1 at the 10th My Health conference, organised by the Health Promotion Department at the Supreme Council for Family Affairs (SCFA) in Sharjah, which is taking place under the theme’ Health and Wellbeing.’
The insightful session, moderated by Dr. Ahmed Al-Ammar, a Public Health Specialist from Saudi Arabia, featured Dr. Amjad Hassan Jarrar, Lecturer in Nutrition and Health at United Arab Emirates University, and Dr. Wafaa Helmi Ayesh, Therapeutic Nutrition Consultant and Director of Clinical Nutrition at Tadawe Specialist Hospital.
Not all protein supplements are made equal
Addressing the significance of protein, Dr. Jarrar underlined the importance of selecting high-quality sources to optimise muscle growth and support overall health. He stressed that animal protein offers superior amino acid quality and digestibility compared to plant-based options. However, he noted that vegetarians can achieve comparable protein quality by carefully combining grains and legumes in their meals.
Speaking on protein supplements, he warned of potential dangers, citing research indicating that 25% of protein supplements sold in the US, Canada, and the UK were found to contain growth hormones. Jarrar urged consumers to be vigilant, recommending only products with verified certificates of origin and favouring those tested and certified by independent third-party organisations. Dr. Jarrar pointed out that some sports clubs in the UAE have already adopted such practices to ensure the safety of their recommended supplements.
Weight loss injections are not a magic solution
For her part, Dr. Ayesh addressed the growing popularity of weight loss injections, explaining that while these injections can help reduce hunger and aid weight loss, they must be administered under strict medical supervision. She stressed that these injections are not a quick fix and should be part of a comprehensive plan that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise for effective results.
She also highlighted the importance of thorough medical assessments, including thyroid tests and a review of the patient’s family medical history to ensure the injections are safe and suitable for each individual. Ayesh cautioned against using weight loss injections without proper medical advice, pointing to cases where unsupervised use led to severe complications, including admissions to intensive care.
The University of Sharjah strategically partners with the ‘My Health’ conference for its 10th edition. The two-day event highlights the significance of health in societal quality of life and productivity. It aims to promote sustainable health practices to counter modern lifestyle trends’ physical and mental health impacts.
