Weight Loss

It is no secret that large parts of the developed world have populations which are becoming overweight or obese. The UK is no exception, with around 60% of the population carrying more weight than recommended.

Within these figures, approximately 23% of women in the UK are obese, topping the European league table of fattest nations. Men in the UK are not much better, with around 22% of them being obese, only just behind Malta, which tops this table. It is currently forecast that half of the UK population will be obese in 25 years if current trends continue.

Free Weight Loss Consultation

Most people are looking for a weight loss plan that will allow them to lose weight as quickly as possible. Usually, a dramatic and rapid weight loss is not in the best interest of overweight patients as it leads to unsustainable weight loss, with all the pounds piling back on almost as quickly as they came off.

The Online Clinic offers a free weight loss consultation with a registered doctor, and we may be prepared to prescribe weight loss tablets that can increase your chances of losing weight.

How Is Obesity Measured

There are several ways to measure obesity, but the most commonly used system is the Body Mass Index (BMI), which is calculated based on a combination of height and weight.

BMI Classification Table

BMI Range	Classification
Under 18.5	Underweight
18.5 - 24.9	Healthy weight
25 - 29.9	Overweight
30 - 39.9	Obese
40+	Morbidly obese

You can check your BMI using our BMI Calculator.

Another way of determining if you are overweight is by using the waist-to-hip ratio. This method was devised by a university research team in the United States. You take your waist measurement and divide it by your hip measurement. A ratio of 1.0 is deemed healthy in men and 0.85 in women.

Waist Circumference Risk Guide

Gender	Low Risk	Increased Risk	High Risk
Men	<37 inches	37-40 inches	>40 inches
Women	<32 inches	32-35 inches	>35 inches

Despite the vagaries of the BMI system, which will classify some rugby players as obese because of the crude nature of the calculation, it is still the most popular method of measurement.

What Causes Obesity

Certain medicines such as antidepressants, oral contraceptives, and corticosteroids can lead to weight gain. Obesity can also be hereditary, but this cannot be used as an excuse to explain away every individual case of obesity. While a person may be obese because of genetic factors or medical conditions, obesity rates have trebled since 1980, so it is much more likely that lifestyle factors are to blame for the current obesity epidemic.

Sometimes, a person's low metabolic rate causes them to be overweight, but this is not as common as people tend to think. It is also possible to alter metabolic rate by changing food portions and the frequency of meals. Increasing exercise levels also helps burn the calories consumed throughout the day.

We see a number of patients who have an underactive thyroid or polycystic ovary syndrome, and these conditions contribute to weight gain. However, most people are overweight because they eat irregularly, overeat when they have a meal, and do little or no exercise.

Benefits of Losing Weight

Most people who are overweight want to lose weight so that they can look better, and this is a perfectly good reason to make an effort to get body shape under control. However, there are medical reasons why it is desirable to maintain a healthy weight. Heart disease, stroke, type II diabetes, high blood pressure, and some types of cancer have an association with being overweight.

Health Benefits of Weight Loss

Benefit	Description
Reduced Risk of Heart Disease	Lowers blood pressure and cholesterol levels
Improved Blood Sugar Control	Reduces the risk of type II diabetes
Better Mobility	Decreases strain on joints and reduces arthritis symptoms
Enhanced Mental Well-being	Improves mood and self-confidence

How to Lose Weight

The best way to lose weight is to do so naturally, without resorting to slimming pills. However, doctors may be prepared to prescribe medication if a natural approach has not produced sufficient results. As a private clinic, we are prepared to offer the full range of safe weight loss medications, provided they are appropriate for the individual patient.

Most people are overweight because they eat more calories than they burn through exercise. The first step is to analyse diet and activity levels. Motivation is essential for successful weight loss.

Weight Loss Diet

Eating small meals throughout the day ensures a high metabolic rate, burning calories efficiently. Choose small, healthy meals every 3 to 4 hours, but avoid traditional snacks like crisps, certain nuts, and biscuits.

Recommended Daily Diet

Meal	Suggested Food
Breakfast	Porridge with berries, made with water or skimmed milk
Lunch	Lean chicken salad with olive oil dressing
Dinner	Grilled salmon with steamed vegetables
Snacks	Greek yoghurt, nuts (in moderation), fresh fruit

High-fat foods, including cheese, should be minimised. If using a spread, an olive oil-based option with few added ingredients is preferable. Be mindful of beverages. Sugary drinks such as cola or lemonade should be avoided entirely. Water is the best option, and alcohol consumption should be limited.

Weight Loss Exercise

Physical activity should be increased. The recommended amount is 60 to 90 minutes of moderate physical activity five days a week. This could include brisk walking, running, or sports. Exercise can also be incorporated into daily routines, such as taking stairs instead of lifts.

Weight Loss Program Expectations

Many people attempt rapid weight loss, but this approach is unlikely to be sustainable. A steady weight loss of one to two pounds per week is optimal. Weight fluctuations may occur due to muscle gain, so tracking body measurements can provide a clearer picture of progress.

Keeping the Weight Off

Sustained weight loss requires maintaining healthy eating and exercise habits. Returning to old habits often leads to weight regain.

Weight Loss Medications and Surgery

If natural weight loss methods are unsuccessful, medical advice may be necessary. We are happy to prescribe weight loss medications to patients committed to achieving a healthy weight. Medication suitability is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Surgery is only recommended in extreme cases.

For further information on available weight loss treatments, please visit our weight loss pills page. If you would like to proceed with a free consultation, receiving weight loss medication in the UK requires a consultation with a registered doctor. Be cautious of websites offering prescription diet pills without proper medical assessment.