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TikTok is full of wellness and health trends, and a leading doctor has shared his thoughts on the new ‘Mounjaro drink’ people are claiming ‘fast tracks weight loss’
With social media’s history of hyped-up health trends, does a ‘Mounjaro drink’ drink deliver results – or is it just another internet myth?
From ‘sleepy girl cocktails’ to ‘oatzempic’ drinks there are a number of quick-fix health solutions on social media, and now Dr. Kaywaan Khan, a Harley Street private GP has weighed in on the latest drink.
Marketed as a natural alternative to the prescription weight loss medication Mounjaro, the drink is popular online as it contains just four common kitchen ingredients, making it easy for anyone to try without with the hopes of rapid weight loss.
But can a drink, whipped up in your kitchen truly help to shed the pounds, or is it too good to be true? Dr Khan shared his thoughts with Daily Mirror.
The doctor said it may be misleading, but it might not be all bad, as he said it could have some health benefits to it. Creators are claiming that a simple four ingredient homemade beverage can replicate the effects of the drug Mounjaro and help aid weight loss – without the need for a prescription.
Mounjaro is a brand name for tirzepatide. As an injectable in the thigh, stomach or arm, tirzepatide reduces appetite and improves how the body breaks down sugar and fat. However the ‘Mounjaro Drink’ is recommended as a morning ritual for weight management. To make it, simply grate ½ teaspoon of fresh ginger into 1 cup of hot water, squeeze in 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and stir in 1 teaspoon of honey.
But can it work? Dr Khan said: “The ingredients in this drink each offer potential health benefits. Lemon is rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function and can improve digestion by stimulating stomach acid production. Ginger is a well-known anti-inflammatory, as well as for its potential to help regulate blood sugar levels. Honey provides a natural sweetness as a healthier alternative to refined sugar and is packed with antioxidants. When these ingredients are mixed in hot water, the nutrients are typically absorbed better into the body.
“While the ‘Mounjaro drink’ can improve digestion and regulate blood sugar levels, it cannot replicate the weight loss effects of the medication, Mounjaro,” and said to claim otherwise is “misleading and harmful” especially to those who may struggle with obesity and have often tried countless natural remedies – only to find that none provide the solution they need.
He further noted: “The ‘Mounjaro drink’ cannot alter appetite and metabolic function on a deeper level, so is unlikely to offer the same clinical results. Mounjaro, a prescription medication, works by mimicking two key hormones: GLP-1 and GIP. GLP-1 regulates blood sugar, while GIP suppresses appetite, creating a dual-action mechanism that sets it apart from other treatments, and a natural alternative cannot replicate this.”
So for those claiming the drink aids “rapid weight loss”, Dr Khan said this is likely to it being used as a meal replacement. “In the beginning, you will shed a few kilos, but because your metabolism will significantly slow down, you’ll only be gaining the weight back faster once you begin eating regularly again. It’s not a healthy or sustainable method to lose weight.”
Dr Khan advised for anyone looking for help with weight loss to consult with your GP or a nutritionist – especially before starting any sort of diet trend. “Even when considering injectable medications such as Mounjaro, it’s essential that they are prescribed and administered under proper medical guidance,” and said weight management is a “complex process” that varies from each person.
He added: “It’s important to remember that Mounjaro isn’t suitable for everyone, particularly those with a history of pancreatitis, thyroid conditions, kidney problems, or gastrointestinal issues. In these circumstances, the ‘Mounjaro Drink’ can be a simple, natural option to support digestion. While it won’t replicate the weight loss effects of the medication, incorporating nutrient-rich ingredients like ginger, lemon, and honey into a balanced diet can help boost gut health.”
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