Fitness show host Kathryn warns against risky slimming methods
OPERATION Transformation host Kathryn Thomas has said she has seen a noticeable increase in applicants admitting they have tried Ozempic, a drug used to treat diabetes, in order to lose weight.
In an interview with this week’s Irish Mail on Sunday Magazine, Ms Thomas who is a dedicated keep-fit advocate, has voiced her concern at the numbers of people resorting to Ozempic or travelling abroad for what can be dangerous – or in some cases fatal – weight-loss surgery. ‘Certainly, I know from people who have applied for the show – have filled out the application form – who have definitely been on it,’ Ms Thomas revealed.
‘That is one of the questions we ask: “Have you tried any weight loss supplements or drugs?” And, as far as I know, there have been a lot of people saying “yes” to that one this year.’
Ozempic has gained considerable popularity in the past year with celebrities describing it as a magic potion that sheds weight in a short time.
But Ms Thomas, who kicks off the latest series of RTÉ’s Operation Transformation tomorrow, said she has concerns about the use of the drug.
‘The jury is still out on
Ozempic, for me. I think it’s too early to really see the long-term effects behind it. It’s not for me to judge anyone,’ she said.
Ms Thomas said she has also seen an increase in people having radical surgery in under-regulated countries such Turkey in a bid to slim down.
‘I think it’s really sad that people feel that’s the route that they have to go, that they risk taking their life in their hands.’
While conceding that not all overseas surgeries are fatal, she said in her estimation the risk far outweighs any benefits.
‘There are of course successful surgeries [in places like Turkey], but things can go wrong and they have gone wrong.
‘And when you’re talking about surgery, you need professionals, you need to have a huge amount of research, and you need people who are qualified.
‘The lack of regulation in some places is simply shocking. It’s frightening really,’ she said.