Weight Loss FAQs

See Also: Are you overweight? - Healthy weight loss - Popular weight loss products

What is a healthy weight?

There is no exact definition of a healthy weight as we all come in different shapes and sizes. There are, however, guidelines that we can use to determine whether we are a healthy weight or not. The two most common methods are calculating a persons BMI (Body Mass Index) or taking a waist measurement.

Your BMI is a measurement of your weight against your height; Express Chemist has a convenient BMI calculator that you can use to calculate yours. Generally, a healthy BMI is considered to be between 18 and 25. A BMI of 25-30 is considered overweight, while a BMI of 30 or above is considered obese. For more information on your BMI, please see our section below.

Ideal waist measurements differ for men and women. An inactive lifestyle and poor diet can lead to fat building up around our waist. This excess of fat around the middle is linked with an increased risk of developing diabetes and heart disease, as well an increased risk of high cholesterol and associated conditions such as a heart attack or stroke.

The waist measurement is taken at the waists narrowest point, which is just below the lower ribs and above the waist. The measurement should be taken after exhaling. A measurement greater than 37" (94cm) for men and 32" (80cm) for women is considered overweight and puts you at greater risk of the conditions mentioned above. Measurements above 40" (102 cm) for men and 35" (94cm) increase this risk significantly.

For further information on BMI, waist circumference and other methods of body measurement, please visit our determining body weight page.

Do I need to lose weight?

If your BMI or waist measurement is above the healthy range then yes, you should lose some weight. Please bare in mind that many different factors affect a persons weight. The methods mentioned above are not an exact science but are generally considered to be good way of making an initial assessment.

If you need to lose some weight, then you should consider taking Alli. Alli is a clinically validated pharmacy treatment (the first available over the counter in the UK) that can help you to lose weight by reducing the amount of dietary fat absorbed by your body. In conjunction with a healthy exercise and diet program, Alli can help you lose 1lb for every 2lb that you lose by yourself.

Why should I lose weight?

If you are overweight then you are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, back pain, joint problems, insomnia, respiratory problems, high blood pressure and some cancers, particularly of the breast, colon and prostate. As mentioned above, an excess of fat around the midriff can indicate an increased risk of high cholesterol and the conditions associated with it, chiefly heart attacks and strokes.

Being overweight may also have a psychological effect. It can affect our self esteem, making us feel unattractive and making us less likely to socialise or lead an active lifestyle.

What is the best way to lose weight?

This is a commonly asked weight loss question. The truth is that there is no 'best way' to lose weight. Indeed, there are several ways you can lose weight, but the important thing is to ensure that you lose weight healthily and at a pace that is right for you.

Drastic diets and excessive exercise regimes won't do your body much good. It is best to begin slowly, setting yourself realistic achievable goals and taking everything a step at a time. Eating more healthily and increasing your daily activity levels is always a good start. Don't try and cut calories straight away, this will leave you hungry and unmotivated. Instead, just make healthy substitutions; skimmed milk instead of full-fat, nuts and fruit instead of biscuits and chocolate, water instead of canned drinks. The same goes with exercise; walk instead of drive, take the stairs and not the lift and take a daily stroll.

A pedometer is a good way of counting your daily steps. Find your average and try and add an extra 1000 steps a day. If you find yourself prone to cravings then take a look at our range of appetite suppressants. A product like Alli, which has been clinically proven and validated, can help you lose weight in combination with a regular exercise and diet program.

What does BMI mean?

BMI stands for Body Mass Index. It is calculated by dividing your weight by your height. As mentioned previously in this article, we have a handy BMI calculator on our site that can calculate both metric and imperial measurements.

BMI calculations don't differentiate between muscle and body fat, so some people, particularly those who are muscular or athletic, may find themselves in a high BMI category even though they have very little body fat. If this is the case, a better method of determining body fat content would be recommended.

If you would like to read more about BMI and other methods of assessing your body, please visit our determining body weight page.

Is there a miracle weight loss treatment?

There is no such thing as a miracle weight loss treatment or cure. There are many products out there promising just this but these should always be approached with caution; weight loss has become big business and there are many companies out there happy to make money selling false promises. Losing weight takes determination, willpower and effort, quick fix solutions are never a good idea and it is best to find a healthy and sustainable way of looking after ourselves.

If you are serious about losing weight responsibly and adopting a healthier lifestyle, then there are products that may help you achieve your weight loss goals. We have a list of popular weight loss products that we believe will be of real benefit to you and your weight loss program. Products on the list include green tea extract, a natural metabolism booster, plus a multivitamin and an Omega 3 oil supplement to help your body get the nutrients it needs.

Our biggest recommendation is Alli, the first pharmacy-licensed weight loss treatment to be made available over the counter in the UK. Alli is clinically validated, so it makes no promises that can't be backed up. It has had a lot of press so you may have read about Alli in the news. Please visit our Alli page where you will find further information and advice about this product.