RIYADH — The Ministry of Health has warned the public against following any scientifically unproven diet or using such diets as a substitute for prescribed medical treatment without specialist supervision. The ministry specially mentioned what is referred to as the “Tayyibat Diet,” stressing that these practices may expose individuals to serious health complications.
The ministry noted that the warning comes in light of monitored health cases involving individuals, who discontinued insulin or diabetes medications based on recommendations associated with widely circulated dietary regimens. In some cases, patients substituted these diets for prescribed medications or reduced treatment dosages, including for chronic diseases, without consulting a specialist physician. Some of these cases required emergency intervention and admission to intensive care units due to severe elevations in blood glucose levels or related diabetes complications.
The ministry cautioned against categorizing foods in absolute terms as “beneficial” or “harmful,” or eliminating essential food groups without medical justification, noting that such practices may lead to deficiencies in nutrients necessary for the body. It also warned against promoting excessive consumption of sugars or saturated fats as a safe option for everyone.
The ministry urged the public to obtain health information from official and reliable sources or seek medical advice through the 937 call center, and not to be influenced by circulated content or scientifically unsubstantiated claims, in order to protect public health and safeguard community well-being.
Source: Saudi Gazette