'Weight loss drugs can't replace power of group support', expert says

Leader Live

2 days ago

That is the opinion of a Slimming World manager who has been running classes in Flintshire for a number of years.
Tracey Evans says such clubs are needed more than ever amid the growing popularity of weight loss medication.
While the arrival of weight loss injections like Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro have changed the weight management landscape, Tracey Evans, who manages groups in Flintshire and runs groups in Buckley, says the drugs will never replace weight-loss methods based on lifestyle changes, like Slimming World can.
Tracey became a Slimming World member 16 years ago. After having two children, she gained weight and was struggling to lose it alone.
Slimming World expert Tracey Evans. (Image: UGC) She says: 'While, of course, we know and our members are living proof that lasting weight loss can be achieved without drugs, we also understand that when you're desperate to lose weight, it can be tempting to try something new that promises instant results.
"The truth is though there's no magic bullet – losing weight and maintaining that weight loss requires change. Weight loss drugs need to go hand-in-hand with making changes to your diet, activity and mindset. They're not a replacement for those changes."
Tracey says Slimming World's approach is focused on helping its members to make lasting changes, rather than achieving a quick fix.
She said: 'Our healthy eating plan encourages members to eat nutritious, everyday food so they lose weight without deprivation, and we have an activity programme that helps members increase how much and how often they move, at their personal pace.
"In our groups, members get behaviour change support which helps them to understand themselves more deeply as a slimmer and change the way they think about food, activity and their weight.
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"With over 55 years' expertise in helping people lose weight and transform their lives, we believe Slimming World offers the very best package there is when it comes to helping people to adopt healthy habits for life.
"That's why we're committed to offering support to everyone, including providing wraparound care for members who are taking weight loss drugs alongside attending Slimming World.'
Currently 64 million people in the UK are living with overweight and obesity.
Tracey says: 'Many people join our groups after trying to lose weight beforehand, often alone and unsuccessfully. They understand they need support because it isn't easy – and it's even harder on your own.
"Whether you're using weight loss medication or have had surgery, lasting change needs real support. My members form strong friendships in group, and there's nothing quite like the motivation and accountability that comes from losing weight with others who understand the challenges.
"Being part of a group helps you to stay on track and committed until the changes you're making become everyday habits.
'While I wouldn't ever judge someone for going down the route of weight loss injections. I didn't choose that option because I feel confident that I've learned how to make changes I can keep up forever – so I'll never go back to the old me.
'I've changed the way I think about food and the expertise shared at group has helped me to see where and why my previous attempts at losing weight didn't work.
"Now I know my triggers, I can spot when something might have the potential to send me off track and put a plan in place to protect my weight loss. I'm so grateful to Slimming World.'