Medical professionals have issued a crucial Christmas warning to the hundreds of thousands of Britons using popular GLP-1 weight-loss injections, advising them to steer clear of one iconic festive drink to avoid unpleasant and potentially severe side effects.
The Festive Drink to Avoid on Weight-Loss Medications
As Christmas celebrations ramp up, doctors are specifically cautioning patients on medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy to avoid the creamy Irish liqueur, Baileys. This drink consistently tops the charts as the UK's favourite festive tipple, but its high-fat, high-sugar composition can clash dangerously with the effects of GLP-1 treatments.
Dr Giuseppe Aragona, Medical Practitioner at Prescription Doctor, explains the significant risk. "Drinking too much can worsen some of the common GLP-1 side effects like nausea, acid reflux, dizziness and vomiting," he states. The combination of slowed gastric emptying caused by the medication and the rich nature of drinks like Baileys can create a 'perfect storm of consequences', leading to faster intoxication and more severe hangovers.
Other Boozy Beverages on the 'Caution' List
Baileys is not the only festive drink requiring careful consideration. Medical advice suggests those on 'fat jabs' should also limit or avoid several other seasonal favourites due to their potential to trigger adverse reactions.
Drinks to avoid or strictly limit include:
- Eggnog & Snowballs: The double hit of cream and alcohol is difficult to tolerate.
- Mulled Wine & Sweet Cocktails: High sugar content can cause blood glucose spikes and crashes.
- Guinness & Stout Beers: Their heavy, filling nature clashes with reduced appetite.
- Sherry & Port: Exceptionally high sugar levels risk blood sugar fluctuations.
- Sour Mix Cocktails: Citric acids can aggravate nausea and acid reflux.
Safer Sipping Options for the Festive Season
It's not all bad news for those wanting to enjoy a festive drink. Doctors emphasise that moderation and smart choices are key. Patients can still partake in celebrations by opting for lighter, less sugary alternatives.
Drinks that can be enjoyed in careful moderation include:
- Gin with a slimline tonic
- Prosecco or Champagne
- Dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc
- Vodka with soda and lime
- Light spritzers
Dr Aragona offers a vital piece of practical advice for those who do choose to drink: having a small snack beforehand can help lower the risk of low blood sugar and lessen the gastrointestinal impact of alcohol. The core message from medical experts is clear: enjoy the festive season, but be mindful of how these powerful medications interact with traditional Christmas indulgences to ensure a happy and healthy holiday.
