Brain damage due to weight loss drugs of unknown origin
Bach Mai Hospital once received a 21-year-old female patient (Hanoi) poisoned by Sibutramin after taking weight loss pills bought online. The product is of unknown origin, labels are entirely in foreign languages.
The family said that the patient took the drug continuously for more than 1 month, 1 pill per day, combined with fasting and losing 4-5kg. After that, the patient suddenly fainted and was taken to the emergency room. MRI results showed damage to the hypothalamus on both sides. The sample sent for testing determined to contain Sibutramin.
According to Dr. Nguyen Trung Nguyen - Director of the Poison Control Center, Bach Mai Hospital, Sibutramin was once used to treat obesity but has been banned in the US, Europe and Vietnam due to increasing the risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease. In Vietnam, this active ingredient has been suspended from circulation since 2011 and is on the list of prohibited foods for health protection.
Experts warn that many weight loss products floating online may contain dangerous stimulants such as Sibutramin, Phenolphthalein, high-dose caffeine... causing coma, convulsions, brain damage. People who want to lose weight should consult a doctor, prioritize adjusting their diet and increasing exercise, avoid buying drugs and functional foods of unknown origin on social networks.
Safe and effective weight loss after Tet
BSCKI. Nguyen Thi Thuy, Department of Endocrinology, Central Military Hospital 108 said that after Tet days of eating comfortably and family reunion, many people - especially women - start to worry when their weight increases. A larger waistline, tighter clothes make the story of weight loss after Tet become a familiar concern every beginning of the year.
Currently, there are many weight loss methods shared on social networks. However, if applied without understanding or too hastily, weight loss may not be effective, and may even adversely affect health.
To regain figure and health, BSCKI. Nguyen Thi Thuy advises to limit sweets. After Tet, you should reduce confectionery, soft drinks and sugary desserts for about 1–2 weeks. Instead, increase green vegetables and fresh fruits to supplement fiber.
Reduce portion sizes: You should not fast completely, but you need to reduce the amount of food each meal. Eating just enough helps the body gradually adapt and limit calorie intake.
Prioritize protein-rich foods: Foods such as chicken breast, fish, eggs, beans, low-fat yogurt... help create a feeling of fullness for a long time and limit snacking.
Drink enough water, limit alcohol: Alcohol and soft drinks contain a lot of energy but have little nutritional value. Drinking enough filtered water every day helps support metabolism and control hunger.
Increase exercise: Dedicating at least 30 minutes each day to activities such as brisk walking, jogging, cycling or exercising at home will help burn excess fat and improve cardiovascular health.
Losing weight after Tet does not need to be too hasty. The important thing is to rebuild healthy eating and living habits. Persistently implementing scientific measures will help each person regain their figure, while maintaining stable health for the whole year", BSCKI. Nguyen Thi Thuy recommends.
