NHS Digital Weight Management Programme
This is a free 12-week NHS programme designed to support you to be more active and lose weight, develop healthier eating habits and provide lots of structured support available on your smartphone, tablet or computer.
Managing your weight is extremely important in order to decrease your risk of various health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, mental health problems, Type 2 Diabetes, joint problems, and some cancers.
NHS Digital Weight Management Programme
This is only suitable for you if you are over 18, with diabetes, high blood pressure or both and you have a BMI over 30, or over 27.5 if from Black, Asian or ethnic minority background (as we know people from these ethnic backgrounds are at an increased risk of conditions such as Type 2 diabetes at a lower BMI)
You will also only be eligible to take part in the NHS Digital Weight Management Programme if you have a smartphone, tablet or computer with internet access.
NHS Advice
NHS Weight Loss Strategies
Evidence has shown that weight loss can be more successful if it involves other strategies, alongside diet and lifestyle changes.
This could include things like:
- setting realistic weight loss goals – if you're obese, losing just 3% of your original body weight can significantly reduce your risk of developing obesity-related complications
- eating more slowly and being mindful of what and when you're eating – for example, not being distracted by watching TV
- avoiding situations where you know you may be tempted to overeat
- involving your family and friends with your weight loss efforts – they can help to motivate you
- monitoring your progress – for example, weigh yourself regularly and make a note of your weight in a diary
Getting psychological support from a trained healthcare professional may also help you change the way you think about food and eating. Techniques such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can be useful.
To read more NHS weight loss advice, click here.