Global Study Warns Against Sale of Weight-Loss Products to Under-18s

Nearly 1 in 10 Adolescents Have Used Medically Unapproved Weight-Loss Products, Posing Serious Health Risks

Nearly 1 in 10 adolescents globally have used medically unapproved weight-loss products, according to a new study.
The study finds the prevalence of 12- to 18-year-olds using diuretics, laxatives and diet pills without a doctor's prescription was 2% in the past week, 4% in the past month, 6% in the past year and 9% in their lifetime.
These products are not medically recommended for children as they are ineffective, pose risks to physical and psychological health, and are associated with unhealthy weight gain in adulthood and increased risk of developing eating disorders.
The use of these products is also linked with low self-esteem, depression, and poor nutritional intake.
The study advocates for stronger regulation, citing New York state which banned the sale of these products to people younger than 18 in October last year.