ISLAND SLIMMING WORLD CONSULTANTS SAY CLUBS ARE ‘NEEDED MORE THAN EVER’

Award-winning Slimming World consultants on the Isle of Wight say slimming groups remain vital, despite the rising popularity of weight loss medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro.

Kim Street and Hayley Perry, who were recently recognised at the Slimming World Oscars with Gold and Diamond awards, believe lifestyle-based approaches offer longer-term results than medication alone.

Kim, who has lost 4.5 stone since joining in 1999, said:

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“There’s no magic bullet – weight loss and maintenance require lasting change. Drugs can support that journey, but they’re not a replacement for it.”

A University of Oxford study recently found that people who stop taking weight loss drugs typically regain the weight within a year, with full weight regain expected in under two years without ongoing lifestyle changes.

Hayley said Slimming World’s approach focuses on healthy eating, increased activity, and behaviour support:

“We help members eat well without deprivation, build sustainable activity into their routines, and change their thinking around food and weight.”

According to Slimming World’s research:

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• 89% of members say they lose weight while getting the nutrients they need
• 85% were surprised they could still eat foods they loved
• 77% now make healthy meals the whole family enjoys
• 76% feel proud to be passing on healthy habits
• 56% were surprised by how quickly they lost weight

A poll of 2,000 UK adults found 69% would be unlikely to take weight loss drugs. Concerns included impacts on diet, nutrition, and a love of food.

Kim added:

“Many people come to us after trying to lose weight alone. The support, accountability and friendships formed in group make a real difference.”

Kim and Hayley are part of a 9-strong Slimming World consultant team helping members across the Isle of Wight.