Weight Loss is a Hard Journey

Many people who are overweight want to lose weight, but it can be hard. There are adverts for junk food everywhere, and special deals in stores can tempt them to buy unhealthy snacks. When eating out, it’s often hard to know how many calories are in the food. It’s tough to eat healthy when we’re busy or stressed. 

Click the link to discover additional resources and support for losing weight. 

Below are the BMI ranges (kg/m²) that are used in England to indicate an adult’s weight status: 

• below 18.5 - underweight 
• between 18.5 and 24.9 -  healthy weight 
• between 25 and 29.9 - overweight 
• between 30 and 39.9 - obesity 
• equal to or above 40.0 - severe obesity 

Research has shown that black, Asian or other minority ethnic groups have an increased risk of developing some long-term health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, at lower BMI thresholds than white groups. For example, adults from these minority ethnic groups, with a BMI of: 

• 23 or more, are at an increased risk of long-term conditions 
• 27.5 or more, are at a high risk of long-term conditions 

Research indicates that multiple factors contribute to a person’s weight, some of which are partially or completely beyond an individual's control. These factors include genetic variations, living and working environments, and the availability and visibility of different food options. While it is possible for people to lose weight, it is not always an easy process, and maintaining a healthier weight after losing some can be challenging. 

 Additionally, rapid weight loss can often result from unhealthy practices. Therefore, it is essential to focus on sustainable, healthier changes to eating habits and physical activity that can be integrated into one’s lifestyle. Improving diet and engaging in physical activity will benefit everyone and help reduce the risk of long-term health conditions, thus aiding in the maintenance of a healthier weight. 

There are a number of online resources that help you on your weight loss journey: 

Resources to encourage healthy eating

The Eatwell Guide. A tool which defines government recommendations on eating healthily and achieving a balanced diet. 
Easy Meals app - Meal ideas, recipes, cooking tips. 
Food Scanner app – Brings food labels to life and helps people make healthier choices by finding out what is in food and drinks. 
Drink Free Days app - Support and practical advice to help change drinking habits. 

Resources to encourage physical activity

Couch to 5K app- A running app for absolute beginners. 
Active 10 app - Track and build up your daily walks – start with 10 minutes every day! 
UK Chief Medical Officers’ Physical Activity Guidelines 2019 infographics – Infographics explaining the physical activity needed for general health benefits for adults and older adults. 
Active Partnership -  To find out what physical activity options are available in your area, contact your Active Partnership who will be able to show you the options locally such as Parkrun and Walking for health. 
Sport England. This Girl Can - Ways to get active. 
Sport England Join the Movement -Tips, advice and guidance on how to keep or get active in and around your home. 

Resources to encourage healthy eating and physical activity

Better Health - Healthy changes start with little changes. Better Health has lots of free tools and support to help lose weight, get active or quit smoking. 
Change 4life - Change4Life aims to ensure parents have the essential support and tools they need to make healthier choices for their families by eating well and moving more. 

Resources to encourage health and wellbeing

BMI calculator - A calculator to check body mass index (BMI) 
NHS.UK - UK’s biggest health information service which provides advice, tips and tools to help individuals make the best choices about their health and wellbeing. 
How Are You? – A free quiz to get a personalised health score, along with personalised advice and easy tips for healthier living. 
Every Mind Matters - Expert advice and practical tips to help people look after their mental health and wellbeing. 

If you'd like to explore other options to support your weight loss journey, please don’t hesitate to contact our experts at Happy Pharmacy. You can reach us via email at help@happypharmacy.co.uk