Latest news with #BhaviniShah
Daily Record
01-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Exactly how many beers it takes to get a hangover according to a doctor
A doctor has explained the immediate impact that alcohol has on the body, as she warned people to be wary of how much they are drinking. A doctor has shared exactly how many drinks a person needs to consume to experience a hangover the next day, warning that taking it too far can result in poisoning. The expert warns that it doesn't take much for alcohol to affect the nervous system and brain. For many Britons, consuming alcohol is a routine aspect of life. A survey conducted by YouGov revealed that approximately 82 per cent of individuals in the UK admit to drinking. Data from 2022 indicates that six per cent of British adults have an alcoholic beverage daily, while another four per cent drink five or six days a week. One in seven (14 per cent) indulge three or four days a week, 23 per cent enjoy a tipple one or two days a week, while one in three (33 per cent) claim they drink less frequently. Despite the common knowledge that alcohol consumption can negatively impact our health, it remains a prevalent habit. Ahead of Alcohol Awareness Week on July 7, a medical professional explained more about the immediate effects of alcohol on the body. Doctor Bhavini Shah, a GP at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, shared the various stages of alcohol consumption. "One or two units of alcohol increases the heart rate, expands blood vessels, and gives a slight 'buzz' which commonly makes people feel more sociable or talkative," she explained. As reported by The Mirror, one unit equates to 10ml or eight grams of pure alcohol, roughly the amount the average adult can metabolise in an hour. The quantity of units in an alcoholic beverage is determined by the drink's size and its alcohol content. For instance, according to the NHS, a pint of high-strength lager carries three units of alcohol, while the same amount of a weaker lager contains just over two units. Dr Shah continued: "After four to six units, alcohol begins to impact your nervous system, decreasing reaction time and affecting areas of the brain associated with decision making, resulting in poorer judgement and potentially more reckless behaviour." The onset of a hangover typically occurs at around eight units. This equates to approximately four pints of low-strength cider or beer (3.6 per cent) or four standard 175ml glasses of wine. "After eight units, your vision and sleep will be affected and you will have consumed more alcohol than your liver can process in one night, resulting in a hangover," explained Dr Shah. "And after ten units, your coordination will be highly impaired and you can expect symptoms of nausea, diarrhoea, and vomiting, as well as dehydration and headaches." Nonetheless, consuming eight or more units of alcohol is categorised as "binge drinking" for the average man, and six or more units for women. The NHS advises that adults should not regularly exceed 14 units of alcohol per week. It advises: "Spread your drinking over three or more days if you regularly drink as much as 14 units a week." Dr Shah added that, "after 12 units, you are at great risk of alcohol poisoning." How to eliminate alcohol from your system Dr Shah explained: "Your body will metabolise alcohol at its own rate and there is not much evidence that you can speed up this natural process. However, there are steps you can take to reduce the symptoms of your hangover. "Going to sleep is a good way to let your body naturally remove alcohol from your system by itself. Drinking water is also essential as it will prevent the dehydrating effects of the alcohol and reduce the impact of headaches. "You should also try to eat bland foods as these will increase your blood sugar without upsetting your stomach." For guidance on reducing alcohol consumption, visit the NHS website here.
Daily Mirror
01-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
GP shares how many drinks it takes to get a hangover
Binge drinking can be dangerous for the body - and it can take fewer drinks than you might expect A GP has revealed exactly how many drinks a person needs to consume to experience a hangover the next day, warning that taking it too far can result in poisoning. According to the expert, it doesn't take long for alcohol to impair the nervous system and brain. Drinking alcohol is a regular part of life for many Brits. A poll conducted by YouGov shows that around 82 per cent of people in the UK say they drink. Findings from 2022 showed that six per cent of British adults above have an alcoholic drink every day, while another four per cent drink five or six days a week. One in seven (14 per cent) drink on three or four days out of the week, 23 per cent drink alcohol on one or two days, while one in three (33 per cent) say they have alcohol less often (but do still drink). While we are all aware that drinking has a negative impact on our health, it remains a popular habit. Ahead of Alcohol Awareness Week on July 7, a doctor shared more about the immediate impact it actually has on the body. Doctor Bhavini Shah, GP at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, explained the different stages of drinking. 'One or two units of alcohol increases the heart rate, expands blood vessels, and gives a slight 'buzz' which commonly makes people feel more sociable or talkative,' she said. One unit equals 10ml or eight grams of pure alcohol, which is around the amount of alcohol the average adult can process in an hour. The number of units in a drink is based on the size of the drink, as well as its alcohol strength. For example, the NHS states that a pint of strong lager contains three units of alcohol, whereas the same volume of lower-strength lager has just over two units. Dr Shah continued: 'After four to six units, alcohol begins to impact your nervous system, decreasing reaction time and affecting areas of the brain associated with decision making, resulting in poorer judgement and potentially more reckless behaviour.' At around eight units is where the average person can expect a hangover. This is equal to around four pints of low-strength cider or beer (3.6 per cent) or four standard glasses of wine (175ml). 'After eight units, your vision and sleep will be affected and you will have consumed more alcohol than your liver can process in one night, resulting in a hangover,' Dr Shah said. 'And after ten units, your coordination will be highly impaired and you can expect symptoms of nausea, diarrhoea, and vomiting, as well as dehydration and headaches.' However, drinking eight or more units of alcohol is considered 'binge drinking' for the average man, while six or more is considered a binge for women. The NHS states that adults should not be drinking more than 14 units a week on a regular basis. It advises: 'Spread your drinking over three or more days if you regularly drink as much as 14 units a week.' Dr Shah added that, 'after 12 units, you are at great risk of alcohol poisoning.' How to get rid of alcohol in your system Dr Shah said: 'Your body will metabolise alcohol at its own rate and there is not much evidence that you can speed up this natural process. However, there are steps you can take to reduce the symptoms of your hangover. 'Going to sleep is a good way to let your body naturally remove alcohol from your system by itself. Drinking water is also essential as it will prevent the dehydrating effects of the alcohol and reduce the impact of headaches. 'You should also try to eat bland foods as these will increase your blood sugar without upsetting your stomach.' For advice on cutting back on alcohol, visit the NHS website here.
Economic Times
30-06-2025
- Health
- Economic Times
Mounjaro weight loss and blood sugar warning: Fake injections spark dangerous side effects, ER visits — are you on the deadly knockoff without knowing it?
How dangerous are fake weight loss drugs in the UK right now? Why are so many people turning to weight loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro? Live Events What does new research say about how people feel about their weight? 76% have tried exercise, but over a third reported no success. 72% have tried dieting, yet 41% didn't reach their goals. 23% of people are now considering medicated weight loss treatments. 11% are currently using injectable or oral weight loss drugs. 8% are planning to start treatment soon, while 16% want more information before deciding. Are people in the UK ready to accept weight loss drugs as the new normal? What should people do to avoid dangerous fake drugs? What's the way forward for weight loss in the UK? FAQs: (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel Fake weight loss drugs are raising alarm across the UK as health experts warn that these counterfeit medications could lead to serious health problems, including dangerously unstable blood sugar levels and allergic reactions. According to Dr Bhavini Shah, a general practitioner, many of these falsified weight loss products either lack the stated active ingredients or contain hidden compounds that pose unknown risks. With more people turning to medicated weight loss treatments, experts stress the importance of using only legally prescribed medications from trusted medical presence of fake weight loss medications in the UK market is becoming an urgent concern, especially as more adults seek fast fixes for obesity. Dr Bhavini Shah has warned that these counterfeit products can trigger allergic reactions, blood sugar spikes, and other life-threatening complications. 'Falsified weight loss medicines have been detected across the world, including the UK,' she said. Some of them don't even contain the advertised active ingredients. Others might include undeclared substances, making them unpredictable and worse, these medicines often look identical to trusted products, which makes them hard to spot. The risks aren't just theoretical. If someone takes a counterfeit weight loss drug, they may face complications such as uncontrolled diabetes, rapid heart rate, or even organ damage, depending on what's inside the pill or to Independent Prescribing Pharmacist Sheena Bagga, prescription medications such as semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) represent a breakthrough in treating obesity and related health issues. These are GLP-1 receptor agonists, administered through pre-filled injection pens that help control appetite and regulate blood also Orlistat, a tablet-based medication that blocks fat absorption for those who prefer oral treatment. These weight loss drugs are only available for people with a BMI over 30, or over 28 if there are weight-related health risks. But before anyone starts, they must go through a clinical assessment to make sure the treatment is right for them.A new LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor survey of 500 UK adults found that 62% of respondents are worried about their weight. Out of these, 16% say they're very concerned. The data reveals a widespread dissatisfaction with traditional weight loss methods like dieting and what the numbers say:These statistics show a clear trend: medicated weight loss is gaining popularity, especially as more people lose trust in conventional opinion on medical weight loss is shifting fast. In the same survey, 59% of respondents said they had a favourable view of prescription weight loss treatments. And nearly two-thirds of participants said they would consider medical support if they couldn't lose weight through diet and reflects a bigger shift in how the UK views obesity—not just as a lifestyle issue but as a medical condition that may need clinical intervention. With rising interest in drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro, the need for safe and legal access becomes even more so many counterfeit products flooding the market, experts are urging people to only obtain weight loss drugs from licensed medical professionals. Dr Shah warns, 'Taking these medications puts individuals at risk of everything from allergic reactions to uncontrolled blood sugar levels, which can cause serious harm.'Pharmacists and GPs emphasize the importance of clinical evaluation before starting any treatment. Reputable services—such as those provided by the NHS or registered private clinics—ensure that the medications are safe, genuine, and appropriate for the individual's fake weight loss drugs pose serious threats, the focus must shift toward education, regulation, and medical support. With over half of UK adults worried about their weight, there's a clear demand for reliable treatment options. But turning to counterfeit solutions is a dangerous real solution lies in access to proper healthcare, evidence-based treatments, and a broader conversation about obesity. As more people explore medicated weight loss, public health systems must adapt to meet the growing demand safely and can cause uncontrolled blood sugar and severe allergic Mounjaro, and Orlistat are safe if prescribed by a doctor.
Time of India
30-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Mounjaro weight loss and blood sugar warning: Fake injections spark dangerous side effects, ER visits — are you on the deadly knockoff without knowing it?
Fake weight loss drugs spark health scare in UK as experts warn of blood sugar dangers- Fake weight loss drugs are raising alarm across the UK as health experts warn that these counterfeit medications could lead to serious health problems, including dangerously unstable blood sugar levels and allergic reactions. According to Dr Bhavini Shah, a general practitioner, many of these falsified weight loss products either lack the stated active ingredients or contain hidden compounds that pose unknown risks. With more people turning to medicated weight loss treatments, experts stress the importance of using only legally prescribed medications from trusted medical sources. How dangerous are fake weight loss drugs in the UK right now? The presence of fake weight loss medications in the UK market is becoming an urgent concern, especially as more adults seek fast fixes for obesity. Dr Bhavini Shah has warned that these counterfeit products can trigger allergic reactions, blood sugar spikes, and other life-threatening complications. 'Falsified weight loss medicines have been detected across the world, including the UK,' she said. Some of them don't even contain the advertised active ingredients. Others might include undeclared substances, making them unpredictable and unsafe. What's worse, these medicines often look identical to trusted products, which makes them hard to spot. The risks aren't just theoretical. If someone takes a counterfeit weight loss drug, they may face complications such as uncontrolled diabetes, rapid heart rate, or even organ damage, depending on what's inside the pill or injection. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Direct Shopping From Adidas Franchise Store, Up To 50% Off Original Adidas Shop Now Undo Why are so many people turning to weight loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro? According to Independent Prescribing Pharmacist Sheena Bagga, prescription medications such as semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) represent a breakthrough in treating obesity and related health issues. These are GLP-1 receptor agonists, administered through pre-filled injection pens that help control appetite and regulate blood sugar. There's also Orlistat, a tablet-based medication that blocks fat absorption for those who prefer oral treatment. These weight loss drugs are only available for people with a BMI over 30, or over 28 if there are weight-related health risks. But before anyone starts, they must go through a clinical assessment to make sure the treatment is right for them. Live Events What does new research say about how people feel about their weight? A new LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor survey of 500 UK adults found that 62% of respondents are worried about their weight. Out of these, 16% say they're very concerned. The data reveals a widespread dissatisfaction with traditional weight loss methods like dieting and exercise. Here's what the numbers say: 76% have tried exercise, but over a third reported no success. 72% have tried dieting, yet 41% didn't reach their goals. 23% of people are now considering medicated weight loss treatments. 11% are currently using injectable or oral weight loss drugs. 8% are planning to start treatment soon, while 16% want more information before deciding. These statistics show a clear trend: medicated weight loss is gaining popularity, especially as more people lose trust in conventional methods. Are people in the UK ready to accept weight loss drugs as the new normal? Public opinion on medical weight loss is shifting fast. In the same survey, 59% of respondents said they had a favourable view of prescription weight loss treatments. And nearly two-thirds of participants said they would consider medical support if they couldn't lose weight through diet and exercise. This reflects a bigger shift in how the UK views obesity—not just as a lifestyle issue but as a medical condition that may need clinical intervention. With rising interest in drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro, the need for safe and legal access becomes even more critical. What should people do to avoid dangerous fake drugs? With so many counterfeit products flooding the market, experts are urging people to only obtain weight loss drugs from licensed medical professionals. Dr Shah warns, 'Taking these medications puts individuals at risk of everything from allergic reactions to uncontrolled blood sugar levels, which can cause serious harm.' Pharmacists and GPs emphasize the importance of clinical evaluation before starting any treatment. Reputable services—such as those provided by the NHS or registered private clinics—ensure that the medications are safe, genuine, and appropriate for the individual's needs. What's the way forward for weight loss in the UK? As fake weight loss drugs pose serious threats, the focus must shift toward education, regulation, and medical support. With over half of UK adults worried about their weight, there's a clear demand for reliable treatment options. But turning to counterfeit solutions is a dangerous gamble. The real solution lies in access to proper healthcare, evidence-based treatments, and a broader conversation about obesity. As more people explore medicated weight loss, public health systems must adapt to meet the growing demand safely and responsibly. FAQs: Q1: What are the dangers of fake weight loss drugs in the UK? They can cause uncontrolled blood sugar and severe allergic reactions. Q2: Which weight loss drugs are safe and approved in the UK? Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Orlistat are safe if prescribed by a doctor.
Daily Record
07-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
What your stool says about your health GP shares clues hiding in the toilet bowl
We all do it - but what's in the toilet bowl could tell you more than you think Speaking about our toilet habits is normally a topic of conversation Brits shy away from. But while often overlooked, understanding your bowel movements and what is happening in the toilet bowl can be beneficial to your health. Our stools can reveal a lot about diet, gut, fluid intake, and even stress levels. From green to grey to worrying red, what you see before you flush could be trying to tell you something. Whether it's diet, stress, gut bugs or something more serious like bowel cancer, changes in colour, texture or frequency are often the first warning signs. And while there is no perfect bowel movement, there are some things to look out for. For example, it's normal to pass a stool every day up to every three days, however, it should be soft and easy to pass. You also shouldn't need to strain or be experiencing any pain. Dr Bhavini Shah, GP at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor is lifting the lid on what your poo says about your health. What does the colour of my stool mean? Brown A brown stool indicates that a bowel movement is normal and healthy and should not be cause for concern as long as no other symptoms are present. Green A green stool might be caused by digesting leafy green vegetables, eating or drinking products that contain green food dye, or taking antibiotics. However, green faeces can indicate illnesses such as gastroenteritis. Yellow Yellow stools can indicate an infection within the bowel. Issues with the pancreas may also lead to a yellow stool. This can be due to the reduction in either the production or secretion of pancreatic enzymes into the digestive system. Grey/Pale Stools that are pale, clay, or putty-coloured may be due to problems in the biliary system. The biliary system is the drainage system of the gallbladder, liver, and pancreas. A grey stool can result from medications that provide relief from diarrhoea or indicate liver or pancreas issues due to blocked ducts - it can also be caused by cancer or non- canerous (benign) tumours of the liver, biliary system, or pancreas. Red It is very important to get a red stool checked, as it can also be a sign of rectal bleeding, which can also indicate bowel cancer. Other bowel cancer symptoms can include feeling very tired all of the time, but unsure why and losing weight without meaning to. Any blood in the stool should always be checked. Black Black stool can occur if certain medications are taken. However, it can also indicate a health issue, such as bleeding in the stomach or haemorrhoids. If you notice any changes to the colour of your stools and are concerned, you should always seek advice from a medical expert. What is the shape and texture of my stool telling me? "A healthy bowel movement should resemble a sausage-like shape, which is either smooth in texture or has cracks on the surface," said Dr Bhavini Shah. According to the NHS website constipation is present if a patient is experiencing: Poo that is unusually large or small, and is dry, hard or lumpy Straining or in pain when having a poo Feeling like you haven't fully emptied your bowels If you suffer from constipation, you should gradually increase the fibre in your diet to include at least 30g daily. Fibre can be found in foods such as porridge oats, whole wheat pasta, beans, lentils, wheat bran, and linseed. Eating more fibre not only reduces the risk of bowel cancer but also decreases the risk of other illnesses, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and stroke. The NHS also recommends eating a healthy, balanced diet (including fruits that contain sorbitol, such as apples, apricots, grapes (and raisins), raspberries, and strawberries), drinking plenty of water, and avoiding alcohol. A watery stool with no solid pieces suggests diarrhoea. Whilst most of the time, this can clear up by itself on its own, it's important to observe each bowel movement. A watery stool can indicate health issues such as a virus, bacteria (which can be caused by contaminated food), or a parasite, which can be spread in contaminated water. Hydration is key when experiencing diarrhoea, so a person must make sure they are replacing fluids, sugar, salts and minerals that they are losing in each bowel movement. However, if you are concerned or experiencing regular constipation or watery stool, you should speak to your GP. When should I see a GP? You should always see a GP if you notice blood in your stool, experience sudden weight loss or unusual tiredness, or develop abnormal stomach cramps. Essentially, if you notice any change in bowel habits, stool or colour, it's probably nothing to worry about, but getting any discomfort checked is very important. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. 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