Support for large weight loss

[Bungiecat]

I am 42 and am about to talk to my GP about my weight issue and wonder if anyone has any ideas of what things I should be asking at the consultation

[GoogleMe]

Ask what programmes of support they can offer, any referral schemes locally especially exercise on prescription, mindfulness courses and whether there is anything that, for reasons other than simply being overweight (which isn't one), there is any activity you should avoid.

The NHS provide several excellent programmes of support you can access independently:

nhs.uk/Livewell/weight-loss...

itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast... (also available as an app but I would recommend the podcasts as more technically robust... if you choose to join the Health Unlocked C25K forum you will also get excellent support) The programme in itself will not burn lots of calories but will provide you with a tool that really helps with losing weight in a more holistic way. (I was obese when I started it, took me two years to get to healthy BMI but I have maintained a healthy BMI for several years now)

itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast... The Strength and Flexibility podcast is similar to C25K but rounds it out

Lots of other sensible weight loss resources on the NHS Choices website.

I'd also suggest ensuring that any mental health issues are raised with your GP, especially anything that might be underpinning eating that led to the overweight, and that you plan your approach with an eye to positive mental health ie increasing activity, getting outdoors, perhaps being social, meditation/relaxation/mindfulness techniques (I found very gentle yoga on YouTube - Ekhart Yoga, accessible and helpful)

One other thing... it is a tremendously positive sign that you have posted this on the Healthy Eating forum, you are obviously thinking along the right lines. Good luck with it all

[buddymac48 in reply to GoogleMe]

What a great post.

[Zest]

Hi Bungiecat ,

I can't add to anything that has already been suggested, and just wanted to say that I hope your consultation goes well.

In the meantime, wishing you a good weekend.

Zest

[BadHare]

My GP is unusually clued up on nutrition, & advised me to eat a pale I diet & cut out inflammatory foods.

Try eating only clean foods, ie, nothing processed. Sometimes changing what, when & how you eat can be more effective than cutting calories. Restrictive eating times could be beneficial to you if cutting back doesn't help.

Check out Michael Mosley & Chris Kresser's websites for good advice.

Mel

[GoogleMe in reply to BadHare]

The problem with terms like 'clean eating' is similar to that when people talk about 'being good' about food. It loads eating up a whole load of baggage.

[Silver_Fairy]

May be worth asking for thyroid tests if you have tried and failed to lose weight.

[Sharshargabor]

I also approached my GP about weight loss, and the obvious benefits of working towards having a healthy BMI. She referred me via the 'G.P. Referral scheme' to the local leisure centre for guided exercise. It's a great scheme and it really motivatated a lifestyle change and transformation in me.