You Blame Raya Food… But Is Your Medication the Real Reason You Gained Weight?

health

You Blame Raya Food… But Is Your Medication the Real Reason You Gained Weight?

By Alpro Pharmacy

March 28, 2025

Lose Weight for Hari Raya? Beware of Quick-Fix Solutions!

As Hari Raya approaches, many people start thinking about losing weight quickly to fit into their festive outfits and look their best for gatherings.

“You can lose 30 kg in 30 days.”

“Transform your body with a cup a day.”

Tempting, isn’t it? Social media is flooded with promotions claiming that drinking a cup of ‘natural slimming coffee’ can help you shed weight effortlessly—no dieting, no exercise, just magic. But before you reach for that miracle drink, have you considered that these so-called “instant solutions” could come with serious health risks?

THE HIDDEN DANGERS IN ‘SLIMMING’ PRODUCTS

Over the years, multiple cases have emerged where consumers suffered liver damage, heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure due to weight-loss products containing banned substances. These products often claim to be 100% natural or herbal remedies, but in reality, they contain illegal ingredients that can harm your health.

BEWARE OF WHAT’S INSIDE

Some weight-loss products may promise fast results but secretly contain excessive amounts of harmful substances, such as:

Sibutramine – A banned appetite suppressant linked to heart attacks, strokes, and central nervous system disorders like psychosis and hallucinations.
Diuretics & Steroids – These may reduce water weight temporarily but can lead to severe dehydration and kidney damage.
Heavy Metals – Found in some counterfeit products, which can cause long-term organ damage.

A famous case involved a consumer who collapsed after taking a sibutramine-contaminated product and had to undergo surgery to implant a defibrillator to regulate her heart function. Despite these dangers, many weight-loss products continue to contain these harmful substances illegally.

WHY ARE THERE SO MANY OF THESE PRODUCTS?

With the rise of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) businesses, selling “exclusive” health supplements has become as easy as opening an online store. Some manufacturers skip proper research, testing, and regulations, prioritizing profit over safety.

Even worse, some illegal factories recycle expired drugs or mix industrial chemicals into their formulations, turning unsuspecting consumers into test subjects for unapproved drugs.

These products are widely sold through social media, e-commerce platforms, and private sellers, making it difficult for regulatory bodies to track them down.

A HEALTHY WAY TO LOSE WEIGHT FOR HARI RAYA

While it’s natural to want to look and feel good for Hari Raya, there is no shortcut to healthy weight loss. The best way to manage your weight safely is to:

✅ Eat a balanced diet – Prioritize real food over processed snacks. Choose lean proteins, fiber-rich vegetables, and good fats.

✅ Stay active – Exercise doesn’t have to mean going to the gym! Try brisk walking, dancing, or playing with your kids to stay active.

✅ Hydrate properly – Many people mistake thirst for hunger. Drink enough water to support metabolism and overall well-being.

✅ Seek professional advice – Every person’s body is unique. Before starting any weight-loss program, consult a qualified healthcare professional.

WHEN IN DOUBT, CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL

If you are unsure about a weight-loss product, always check if it is registered with NPRA (National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency). In Malaysia, all legal medicines and supplements must undergo strict safety assessments.

Before you fall for the next weight-loss trend, speak to a professional at Alpro Pharmacy. Our pharmacists can provide personalized advice and recommend safe, evidence-based solutions tailored to your needs.

This Hari Raya, let’s celebrate with good health, not with risky shortcuts. Visit Alpro Pharmacy today for expert guidance on your weight management journey!