Tropical Weight Loss
Photo by Dmitriy Ganin Pexels Logo Photo: Dmitriy Ganin

What can UK doctors prescribe for weight loss?

The only medicine prescribed for weight loss is Orlistat. For more information on weight loss medication, see Obesity: treatment.

What is the maximum weight loss in a month?
What is the maximum weight loss in a month?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) , it's 1 to 2 pounds per week. That means, on average, that aiming for 4 to 8...

Read More »
What is the difference between Saxenda and Ozempic?
What is the difference between Saxenda and Ozempic?

However, the most important difference between the two is, that Saxenda is licenced for use as weight loss medication in the UK and Ozempic is not....

Read More »

If you've tried and failed to lose weight, a visit to your GP surgery could help. Your GP or practice nurse can: assess your general health

help identify the cause of your weight gain

work out if there are any health issues causing you to put on weight

discuss a plan to help you lose weight that suits you

Assessing your weight First, your GP or practice nurse will want to assess whether your current weight is healthy or not. This means measuring your weight and height to calculate your body mass index (BMI). You may also have your waist measured. Measuring your waist is a good way to check you're not carrying too much fat around your stomach, which can raise your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke. You can have a healthy BMI and still have excess tummy fat – meaning you're still at risk of developing these diseases. Your GP may take your blood pressure and carry out other tests, such as a blood test, to check for any health conditions that may be related to your weight. You can also check your BMI by using our BMI calculator. Diet and exercise If you're overweight, changes to your diet and physical activity levels are the first step to helping you lose weight. Your GP or practice nurse can help you assess your current diet and levels of physical activity, and set personal goals for change. Your diet You may be asked to keep a food diary – a written record of everything you eat – for 1 week. This can help you and your GP identify habits, such as adding sugar to your tea, that you can change. Exercise Your physical activity levels can be measured with an activity diary. Your GP may also suggest that you wear a pedometer for a week. A pedometer measures the number of steps you take and gives an indication of your daily activity levels. Set personal goals Once your GP or practice nurse has a clearer picture of your diet and level of physical activity, they can help you identify simple lifestyle changes. Together, you will work out a game plan to lose weight healthily and for the long term. It'll be a plan tailored to your lifestyle and your preferences. Your GP surgery should offer you regular follow-up appointments, usually every 2 weeks to a month, to monitor your progress. More weight loss resources: NHS weight loss plan

What is the fastest way to slim your waist?
What is the fastest way to slim your waist?

Eating a healthy, varied diet that is high in fruits and vegetables — including soluble fiber, vitamin D, and probiotics — is the best plan for...

Read More »
Does massaging fat break it down?
Does massaging fat break it down?

Studies show that deep tissue massage contributes to improved metabolism and fat reduction. Receive massage in the area with excess fat...

Read More »

Couch to 5K running plan

Other weight loss services Your GP surgery may refer you to other services, such as local weight loss groups. These could be provided by the NHS, or may be commercial services that you pay for. If it's appropriate, you may be referred for exercise classes under the supervision of a qualified trainer. Depending on where you live, the exercise programme may be free or offered at a reduced cost. Weight loss medicines If you've made changes to your diet and levels of physical activity but you're not losing a significant amount of weight, your GP may recommend medicines that can help. Medicines are only used if your BMI is at least 30, or 28 if you have other risk factors such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes. The only medicine prescribed for weight loss is Orlistat. For more information on weight loss medication, see Obesity: treatment. Weight loss surgery If lifestyle changes and medicines don't work, your GP may talk to you about weight loss surgery. Weight loss surgery is usually only recommended for people with a BMI of at least 40, or 35 if you have a weight-related health condition, such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. Weight loss surgery can be effective but it's a major procedure that comes with health risks of its own. Find out about the different types of weight loss surgery.

How many calories burn in 10,000 steps?
How many calories burn in 10,000 steps?

What is 10000 Steps Equal To? “But,” continues Jamie, “if you walk briskly for 30 minutes and include enough activity throughout the day to reach...

Read More »
What time should you stop eating if you're trying to lose weight?
What time should you stop eating if you're trying to lose weight?

As a guide, stop eating two to three hours before bed to avoid weight gain. Finishing meals earlier than this may help boost weight loss. Losing...

Read More »
How many steps does it take to lose a pound?
How many steps does it take to lose a pound?

"Generally, 1 mile (or roughly 2,000 steps) walked equates to [burning] 80 to 100 calories." There are 3,500 calories in 1 pound. "This means to...

Read More »
Is metformin like Wegovy?
Is metformin like Wegovy?

Wegovy is intended to be prescribed for obese patients who have a BMI of over 30 or a BMI of over 27 with additional obesity-related health...

Read More »