Success Stories

A weight loss programme that works!

I’ve tried all sorts of diets, exercise DVDs and just starving myself, but haven’t found anything that really helps lose weight in the long run. I didn’t feel comfortable seeing a doctor about it, so I was pleased to discover that my local pharmacy offered a weight management programme.

I thought it would be worth a try (as I’ve tried everything else!) but was still a bit nervous about having to discuss it in front of everybody at the counter. So it was a huge relief to find that they now have consultation rooms where you can have a chat in private.

After a few measurements and a quick blood test to check my glucose levels, the pharmacist gave me some great advice on how just making small changes to my diet and lifestyle would help me to lose 5% of my weight in a year. He also gave me a diary, to keep track of my goals, along with a booklet and an appointment card. I now have meetings with them once a month to check on my progress and to discuss whether there’s anything else I need to do to stay on track.

It’s been six months now and the free advice and support has been a great help in shedding the pounds. Fingers crossed my struggles with my yo-yoing weight are finally over thanks to the pharmacy’s weight loss programme.

Developing healthy eating habits can be the key to successful and permanent weight loss for some people as they learn to break bad habits and take control of their diets. Once you have made the necessary changes you will find that you begin only eating when you are hungry and make more time to enjoy your food.

When you skip or starve yourself you’re having a negative effect on weight loss attempts. Firstly your body will begin saving rather than burning calories to ensure enough energy during the fast. Secondly the weight you do lose is likely to be muscle and muscle burns calories. The more muscle tone you lose the fewer calories you burn.

Eating boosts your metabolism due to the energy required for the digestion and absorption or the meal. Therefore when you skip a meal you’re slowing down your metabolic rate until you eat next – burning fewer calories.

I’m too tired to exercise at the end of the day
Don’t leave it until the end of the day to be active. Look for opportunities throughout the day to make subtle changes to your lifestyle such as using the stairs instead of the lift, taking a brisk walk at lunchtime, parking further away from the shops etc. Strangely enough you may find this makes you feel more energetic and less tired.

What can my pharmacist do to help?
Your pharmacist will be able to provide advice on the best weight loss programme for your health needs. Whether you are looking at weight loss products, guidance on making the transition to a healthy diet or monitoring your progress, your pharmacy team can provide the support to help you reach your goal.

Which pharmacy is offering the service?
Our online Pharmacy finder will help you find the most convenient store location by showing those stores offering the service near your home or work postcode – whichever suits you best.

How do I maintain my weightloss?
Having achieved your goals you need to make the transition from losing weight to maintaining your weight. To make this transition here are some top tips

1. Stay realistic – be happy with your achievement
2. Check your weight once or twice a week
3. Don’t feel guilty about eating certain foods / overeating occasionally
4. Manage stress or confront problems rather than eating, sleeping or wishing them away
5. Gain support from family, friends, a club or a health professional such as your local pharmacist

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