Weight Loss Jabs, Fat-Phobia and the Myth of Willpower

A recent article in The Times (25th August) highlighted a rising concern: with weight-loss injections becoming more widely available, could we see an increase in fat-phobia? The article was based on research by Professor Julian Savulescu and Dr Nanette Ryan of the Centre for Biomedical Ethics at the National University of Singapore.

The research looked at the suggestion that now there’s a “cure” for obesity, there’s no longer any excuse to be overweight. So that people not using the medication will be judged for not using it, just as they’re being judged for using it! Talk about a no win situation.

Let’s be clear — using weight-loss jabs is not an easy decision. These are medications with risks, side effects, and serious implications. It’s not a magic wand, and for many, it’s a choice made after years of struggle. There is also the cost issue, especially with the huge price hike that has just been brought in. This is on top of people worried about if or when they should ever come off the jab, and what will happen if they do.

But here’s what’s happening: people who don’t use jabs often see those who do as taking the “easy route” — skipping the hard work and discipline. There’s a moral high ground attached to doing it the “natural way” which adds guilt and shame into the mix. The thing is, all weight loss is challenging, whether it involves medication or not.

The truth? Willpower alone won’t give you lasting results. In reality it should be re-named Won’t-power as it isn’t long lasting and the more you try and force yourself to do something, in this case lose weight, the more you’ll tend to resist.  That’s your pesky brain coming into play!  Relying solely on medication isn’t a great plan either. Sustainable weight loss requires more than just reducing calories — it’s about understanding how your body works, making long-term changes to your diet, behaviour, and mindset.

We saw this with gastric bands. People would blend Mars bars or high-fat foods, bypassing the purpose of the surgery altogether. The result? Poor health outcomes and disappointment.

Now we’re seeing something similar with jabs. People celebrating how little they’re eating, proud of skipping meals, ignoring hunger cues — and then wondering why their energy is low, their skin is sagging, and they feel awful. Sometimes dangerously so.

The weight didn’t appear overnight, so why expect it to disappear in record time?

I understand the relief many feel when the “food noise” quietens. I’ve had food noise for years — I didn’t even realise it had a name, I just assumed everyone had it! I’ve battled with my weight too, tipping the scales at 14½ stone and nearly a size 20. That was in 2002/3 — my breaking point.

I joined WW back when options were limited and I was juggling a hectic job travelling across the UK. I made a decision that this wasn’t a quick fix. It had to fit my life, for life. No crash diets, no punishment. Just sustainable changes.

It took me 18 months to lose 43lbs. Since then, I’ve changed careers — from project managing commercial kitchens to working in health and fitness. I started teaching classes (pilates, keep fit, tai chi), and later added weight loss, menopause coaching, and talking therapies to an ever growing toolbox of knowledge.

Now, I help women like me make lifelong changes — not just slim down for a holiday, but feel better every day. Check my blog about What’s the best way to lose weight