The pursuit of the "perfect body" can lead to mental and physical harm, including addiction, eating disorders, and severe health risks.
Misuse of weight-loss drugs, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, can have dangerous side effects.
Healthcare professionals warn that the obsession with weight loss can lead to abuse of these drugs, particularly among young people, athletes, and models.
Instead, they recommend seeking help from a healthcare professional for sustainable weight loss and addressing underlying mental health issues.
Dr Clementine Chawane, member of the South African Society of Psychiatrists, joins us on the line.