Herbal slimming products warning
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Muddled and potentially harmful advice is being given to patients offered Chinese herbal slimming remedies, according to a television report to be broadcast tonight. Herbal doctors are prescribing herbal remedies to help weight loss but admit they have no nutritional qualifications to back up their claim, said BBC2's Food and Drink programme.
Dr Nick Finer, an endocrinologist at Luton and Dunstable Hospital, who specialises in treating obesity, said: "There's no evidence herbs help weight loss. The advice available is unscientific, muddled and may even be harmful. Beware of miracle claims about herbs because they are not medically backed up." The National Poisons Unit at Guy's Hospital in London, has recorded 21 poisonings over the last five years, and two deaths attributed to herbal remedies.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments