A leading clinical pharmacist has issued a stark warning to the estimated 1.5 million people in the UK using weight loss injections: overindulging in festive food and drink this Christmas could lead to sudden and severe vomiting.
Why Christmas Feasting Poses a Unique Risk
Kiran Jones, a clinical pharmacist at Oxford Online Pharmacy, explains that popular medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy work by slowing down digestion. While effective for weight management, this mechanism means rich, heavy foods sit in the stomach for much longer. On a day when the average Brit is expected to consume close to 5,400 calories, this can quickly overwhelm the system.
"The slower digestion is exactly what creates trouble at Christmas," the expert notes. Combined with alcohol consumption and long periods of sitting, the stomach can reach its limit rapidly, triggering intense nausea and sickness.
The Health Impact of Festive Sickness
While occasional nausea is a known side effect when starting treatment, repeated vomiting due to overindulgence poses serious health risks. It leads to a sudden loss of fluids and electrolytes, causing dehydration, lightheadedness, and fatigue.
Continued sickness can also prevent the body from absorbing vital nutrients and can worsen conditions like acid reflux, further irritating the stomach and throat lining. For those on their weight management journey, it can also derail progress during a key period.
Expert Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Christmas
Kiran Jones offers practical advice for jab users to navigate the festive season without falling ill:
Be Plate-Aware: At buffets, consciously choose your portions. Prioritise protein, fibre, and nutrient-rich foods first, then add small treats. Eating in order—vegetables, then protein, then fats and carbs—can improve tolerance.
Alcohol with Caution: Alcohol is more irritating on these medications. Stick to lower-strength options like a dry wine, sip slowly, and have no more than two drinks. Never drink on an empty stomach.
Hydrate Consistently: The medicines can suppress thirst. Make a point of drinking a small glass of water every hour throughout the day.
Don't Skip Meals: Avoiding food to "save up" for the main dinner will likely lead to overeating. Have a light breakfast to avoid arriving at the table ravenous.
Stay Upright: Lying down after a big meal encourages reflux. Opt for a gentle walk or remain seated upright to aid digestion.
By following this guidance, the millions relying on these effective treatments can protect their health and still enjoy the quality time and festive flavours of the season.
