A prominent weight loss specialist has issued a stark warning about five trendy wellness habits that millions of Brits are following on TikTok and Instagram - only to find themselves gaining weight instead of losing it.
Prof Franklin Joseph, who founded Dr Frank's Weight Loss Clinic, says people are unknowingly sabotaging their own efforts by following popular social media advice that actually slows their metabolism.
"People are cutting out entire food groups, living off protein shakes and swallowing handfuls of supplements," he explained.
"They think they're being disciplined, but in reality, they're stressing their bodies, slowing their metabolism and in some cases, gaining weight."
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The biggest mistake people make is thinking health means deprivation
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Prof Joseph identified five specific "healthy" habits that are secretly making people heavier, hungrier, and more frustrated than ever before, starting with cutting out dairy and gluten without any medical need.
"Dairy provides calcium, iodine and protein - all crucial for metabolism and bone health," he explained.
"And most gluten-free products are more processed and higher in sugar or fat than the real thing. You're not cleansing your body - you're just making weight loss harder."
He warned that eliminating foods without reason can trigger stress hormones and intensify cravings, often resulting in binge eating episodes.
The second issue is going overboard with protein consumption. While protein helps build muscle and keeps you satisfied, Prof Joseph cautions that overdoing it can backfire.
"Excess protein calories still count," he said. "If every snack is a bar, shake or nut butter, you can easily overeat by 300-500 calories a day."
He also points out that consuming excessive protein while neglecting fibre can result in digestive issues like bloating and constipation.
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The third concerning trend is taking too many supplements without understanding their effects. Prof Joseph warns that people are "biohacking" their way into serious imbalances.
"Too much zinc can deplete copper, excess vitamin D can affect calcium regulation, and unnecessary hormone boosters can completely throw off your natural balance," he explained.
He strongly advised getting proper testing before taking any supplements, adding: "You can't out-supplement a poor diet. More isn't better - it's just more expensive."
The fourth issue involves supposedly healthy foods that are secret calorie bombs. Prof Joseph points out that trendy options like acai bowls can contain 700 calories, while oat milk lattes with syrup rival desserts in their calorie content.
"They sound virtuous, but calories still matter. You don't get a free pass because it's organic," he noted.
The fifth and final habit Prof Joseph warns against is excessive exercise without adequate recovery time.
Going overboard with protein consumption can sabotage weight loss efforts
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"Doing endless HIIT classes or fasting after workouts can backfire," he cautioned. "Your body holds onto fat when it's stressed. Cortisol rises, recovery suffers, and your metabolism slows."
He recommends a more balanced approach: two strength training sessions, some cardio, daily walks and proper sleep will deliver better results than pushing yourself relentlessly.
"The biggest mistake people make is thinking health means deprivation. True health isn't about cutting things out - it's about getting the balance right," Prof Joseph concluded.
"If your 'healthy' habits feel exhausting, it's time to rethink them."
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