Health Ministry warns over sale of ‘quick’ weight loss products

The promotion of various powders and supplements on TikTok and other social media platforms, promising effortless weight loss to Maldivian consumers, has become increasingly widespread. Many of these advertisements claim users can lose up to eight kilograms within a month while also receiving numerous health benefits. However, health and fitness professionals have raised concerns over the marketing and sale of these products, citing a lack of scientific evidence to support such claims.

Among those voicing concern is Ismail Fazil (FitFazil), an experienced exercise science coach who has worked in the Maldivian fitness industry for many years. Fazil, who holds professional qualifications in fitness and provides training for police officers and nursing students, stressed that losing eight kilograms in a single month is not a healthy or recommended approach. He explained that rapid weight loss does not only reduce body fat, but also results in the loss of water, glycogen, and muscle mass.

Highlighting the health risks associated with rapid weight loss, Fazil said it can lead to muscle loss, fatigue, nutrient deficiencies, a slower metabolic rate, and an increased risk of developing gallstones. As muscle mass is essential for strength and mobility, he advised that preserving muscle should remain a priority throughout the weight-loss process. He further noted that individuals who lose weight solely by relying on a powder, without adopting sustainable dietary and lifestyle changes, are likely to regain the weight once they stop using the product.

Addressing claims by sellers that these products "detox" the body or remove toxins, Fazil explained that the liver and kidneys are the body's natural detoxification organs. He stated that there is no scientific evidence to support claims that herbal powders can detoxify a healthy body. He also cautioned that products labelled as "100% natural" are not automatically safe or free from side effects, and may pose health risks when taken alongside certain medications.

Responding to claims that these powders can treat conditions such as PCOS (or PMOS, as it is increasingly referred to internationally) in women, Fazil said the primary approach to managing such conditions is through lifestyle modification, while any medication should only be used under medical supervision. He also distinguished between weight loss and fat loss, explaining that effective weight management focuses on reducing body fat while preserving muscle mass.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and other health authorities recommend a gradual and sustainable weight loss of approximately 0.5 to 1 kilogram per week. According to health experts, losing weight at a faster rate may have adverse effects on the body. Fazil also emphasized that no supplement can substitute a balanced diet, regular physical activity, resistance training, and adequate protein intake.

Fazil said his intention is not to criticize any particular business or individual, but rather to raise public awareness about health-related issues. He encouraged consumers to consider whether such products are supported by scientific evidence and validated through clinical trials before purchasing them. He urged the public to make informed, evidence-based decisions about their health instead of being influenced by advertising.

Commenting on the matter, a media official from Health Ministry stated that businesses selling such products have been instructed to comply with the regulations established by the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) governing the production and sale of these items.