Latest news with #SecondNature
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
UK heatwave BBQ warning to keep weight loss goals on track
If you're worried about the impact of summer socialising on your waist line, nutritionist Robbie Puddick has 10 easy ways to stay on track at your barbecues, picnics and hotel buffet When it comes to summer dining and parties, balance really is key. And, by adding healthier options alongside our favourite foods, it can make these occasions something to look forward to rather than worry about. But this isn't about restriction and calorie-counting (our approach at Second Nature, an NHS -backed healthy eating plan focuses on giving our body everything it needs to thrive). Here are my tips for eating enough protein, fat and fibre to help you feel full for longer so you're not reaching for sugary snacks between meals. These are principles you can apply at barbecues, picnics and even at the all-inclusive buffet at your hotel resort. Bon appetit! 1 Master the balanced BBQ plate Summer BBQs often focus heavily on meat and refined carbohydrates, but creating a more balanced plate will help you achieve your health goals while still enjoying your favourite foods. Aim to fill half your plate with vegetables; try grilling vegetable skewers, corn on the cob, or foil packets of mixed veg alongside your proteins. For the protein portion (about a quarter of your plate), opt for meat, fish, or plant-based options like grilled tofu or meat alternatives such as veggie sausages. Urgent salad and fruit warning to anyone eating common items in hot countries If you're including a starchy carbohydrate like potato salad or a burger bun, keep it to a quarter of your plate (roughly the size of one closed fist). This balanced approach ensures you're getting a variety of nutrients while still enjoying classic BBQ favourites without feeling deprived. 2 Create super summer salads Summer salads don't have to be boring side dishes. To create a satisfying main meal, start with a variety of colourful vegetables for different nutrients and textures. Add a good source of protein, such as grilled chicken, leftover grilled meats from the BBQ, canned fish, feta cheese, or chickpeas. Include a portion of fats such as avocado, nuts, seeds, or olive oil dressing, which helps your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the vegetables. Consider adding complex carbohydrates, such as quinoa, brown rice, or sweet potatoes, for sustained energy. This approach transforms a simple side salad into a balanced, nutritious meal that will keep you satisfied for hours. 3 Mix your own marinades Many shop-bought marinades contain surprising amounts of added sugar. Creating your own marinades gives you control over ingredients while adding incredible flavour. Mix olive oil with lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a Mediterranean option, or try yoghurt with spices for a tandoori-style marinade. Acidic ingredients like vinegar, citrus juice, or yoghurt not only add flavour but also tenderise meat. 4 Choose the right cooking method Different cooking techniques can transform both the taste experience and nutritional profile of our favourite dishes. Grilling creates a delicious smoky flavour to vegetables and proteins alike, perfect for outdoor cooking. Light steaming helps vegetables retain their vibrant colours and crisp textures, making them more appealing on the plate. Air-frying can create wonderfully crispy results for foods like homemade chips or vegetable fritters. Quick stir-frying in a small amount of quality extra virgin olive oil preserves the satisfying crunch of vegetables while developing complex flavours. Slow roasting intensifies the natural sweetness in vegetables like peppers, tomatoes, and courgettes. These cooking methods aren't about restriction but rather about enhancing the natural qualities of your ingredients, making nutritious foods more delicious and satisfying. 5 Snack smart Hot weather can disrupt normal meal patterns and lead to increased snacking. Prepare by having nutritious options readily available. Keep a container of chopped vegetables and hummus in the fridge for quick access. Freeze yoghurt drops by piping small dots of Greek yoghurt onto baking paper and freezing; these make refreshing, protein-rich treats. Homemade ice lollies made with smoothies offer a healthier alternative to store-bought versions. A small handful of mixed nuts provides protein and healthy fats to keep you satisfied. Having these options prepared in advance makes it easier to make nutritious choices when hunger strikes, even on the hottest days. 6 Drink mindfully The British culture around alcohol often encourages overconsumption, which can have a knock-on impact on our health in the long term. But we can enjoy alcohol in moderation and enjoy our social events. If you choose to drink, alternate alcoholic beverages with water to stay hydrated and consume less overall. Wine spritzers (wine with sparkling water) reduce alcohol content while maintaining the social experience. Clear spirits with low-sugar mixers, such as soda water and fresh lime, generally contain fewer calories than creamy cocktails or sugary premixes. Be wary of 'healthy' cocktails as they many contain large amounts of free sugars from fruit juices. Remember that guidelines recommend not exceeding 14 units weekly, spread across several days, with alcohol-free days in between. 7 Go to parties with a plan Summer parties present a particular challenge for balanced eating. Having a small meal containing protein and fibre, such as Greek yoghurt and berries, before attending can help prevent arriving overly hungry. When at the event, first survey all available options before filling your plate, allowing you to make conscious choices rather than automatically taking everything. Position yourself away from the food table during conversations to prevent mindless grazing. Remember that occasional indulgences are a normal part of enjoying social gatherings; a single event won't derail your health, so focus on enjoyment and connection rather than food perfection. Balance is achieved across days, weeks, and months, rather than within every meal or event. 8 Freeze your fruit Frozen fruits offer convenience, affordability, and preserved nutrients as they're frozen at peak ripeness. For a simple dessert, blend frozen bananas for a creamy ice cream alternative with natural sweetness and no added sugar. Frozen berries can be partially thawed and added to yoghurt for a refreshing snack. Try freezing grapes for nature's 'sweets' that take longer to eat, helping with mindful consumption. Frozen fruit also makes smoothies naturally cold without diluting with ice. Since frozen fruit is pre-prepared and lasts for months, it removes preparation barriers when fresh produce might spoil quickly in summer heat, making healthy choices more convenient. 9 Make your breakfast the night before Traditional hot breakfasts often lose appeal during summer. Overnight oats offer a cooling alternative that preserves the nutritional benefits of porridge, simply combine oats with milk or yoghurt and let them sit in the fridge overnight. Adding protein, such as Greek yoghurt or a spoonful of nut butter, can help us feel fuller for longer. Smoothie bowls with added unsweetened protein powder, nuts, and seeds provide a refreshing, nutrient-dense option. Preparing these options the night before means we don't have to rush around in the morning and provides nutritious options when we're short on time. These approaches ensure you're not skipping breakfast, which research shows can impact energy levels and food choices throughout the day. 10 Batch cook for busy days Summer often brings spontaneous activities that can disrupt meal routines. Batch-preparing core components on the weekend creates flexibility while maintaining a nutritious diet. Cook extra portions of protein, such as chicken breasts or hard-boiled eggs, to add to salads or sandwiches. Prepare a large batch of mixed roasted vegetables that can be eaten cold or reheated. Wash and chop the salad ingredients, then store them separately with kitchen towels to absorb moisture, thereby extending their freshness. Cook and freeze portions of whole grains, such as brown rice or quinoa, that can be quickly defrosted. This preparation enables you to quickly assemble balanced meals when opportunities for outdoor activities arise, supporting both your health goals and ability to enjoy the longer days.
Daily Mirror
4 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
I'm a nutritionist - eat what you want without cutting calories with my easy hacks'
Expert Robbie Puddick reveals 10 ways to enjoy the summer's barbecues, picnics and all-inclusive buffets and still reduce hunger and boost energy levels As the long sunny summer rolls on, so does the national pastime of firing up the barbecue, dining al fresco or taking some picky bits to the park for a picnic. And who doesn't enjoy eating tasty food and having a drink with friends and family? But, it's also these situations, when we're offered endless food choices or we're out of our usual routine, that can lead us to overeat as we don't want to feel as though we are 'missing out'. The good news is that, with a few tweaks, the food we enjoy while having fun can be delicious and won't compromise our health. When it comes to summer dining and parties, balance really is key. And, by adding healthier options alongside our favourite foods, it can make these occasions something to look forward to rather than worry about. But this isn't about restriction and calorie-counting (our approach at Second Nature, an NHS -backed healthy eating plan focuses on giving our body everything it needs to thrive). Food is information. And, if we send the right signals to our brain with what we're eating, it will respond by lowering our hunger and boosting our energy levels. Our approach ensures you're eating enough protein, fat, and fibre to help you feel fuller for longer, so you're not having to reach for sugary snacks between meals. Here are some top tips for summer eating. READ MORE: Urgent salad and fruit warning to anyone eating common items in hot countries 1 Master the balanced BBQ plate Summer BBQs often focus heavily on meat and refined carbohydrates, but creating a more balanced plate will help you achieve your health goals while still enjoying your favourite foods. Aim to fill half your plate with vegetables; try grilling vegetable skewers, corn on the cob, or foil packets of mixed veg alongside your proteins. For the protein portion (about a quarter of your plate), opt for meat, fish, or plant-based options like grilled tofu or meat alternatives such as veggie sausages. If you're including a starchy carbohydrate like potato salad or a burger bun, keep it to a quarter of your plate (roughly the size of one closed fist). This balanced approach ensures you're getting a variety of nutrients while still enjoying classic BBQ favourites without feeling deprived. 2 Mix your own marinades Many shop-bought marinades contain surprising amounts of added sugar. Creating your own marinades gives you control over ingredients while adding incredible flavour. Mix olive oil with lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a Mediterranean option, or try yoghurt with spices for a tandoori-style marinade. Acidic ingredients like vinegar, citrus juice, or yoghurt not only add flavour but also tenderise meat. 3 Create super summer salads Summer salads don't have to be boring side dishes. To create a satisfying main meal, start with a variety of colourful vegetables for different nutrients and textures. Add a good source of protein, such as grilled chicken, leftover grilled meats from the BBQ, canned fish, feta cheese, or chickpeas. Include a portion of fats such as avocado, nuts, seeds, or olive oil dressing, which helps your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the vegetables. Consider adding complex carbohydrates, such as quinoa, brown rice, or sweet potatoes, for sustained energy. This approach transforms a simple side salad into a balanced, nutritious meal that will keep you satisfied for hours. 4 Choose the right cooking method Different cooking techniques can transform both the taste experience and nutritional profile of our favourite dishes. Grilling creates a delicious smoky flavour to vegetables and proteins alike, perfect for outdoor cooking. Light steaming helps vegetables retain their vibrant colours and crisp textures, making them more appealing on the plate. Air-frying can create wonderfully crispy results for foods like homemade chips or vegetable fritters. Quick stir-frying in a small amount of quality extra virgin olive oil preserves the satisfying crunch of vegetables while developing complex flavours. Slow roasting intensifies the natural sweetness in vegetables like peppers, tomatoes, and courgettes. These cooking methods aren't about restriction but rather about enhancing the natural qualities of your ingredients, making nutritious foods more delicious and satisfying. 5 Drink mindfully The British culture around alcohol often encourages overconsumption, which can have a knock-on impact on our health in the long term. But we can enjoy alcohol in moderation and enjoy our social events. If you choose to drink, alternate alcoholic beverages with water to stay hydrated and consume less overall. Wine spritzers (wine with sparkling water) reduce alcohol content while maintaining the social experience. Clear spirits with low-sugar mixers, such as soda water and fresh lime, generally contain fewer calories than creamy cocktails or sugary premixes. Be wary of 'healthy' cocktails as they many contain large amounts of free sugars from fruit juices. Remember that guidelines recommend not exceeding 14 units weekly, spread across several days, with alcohol-free days in between. 6 Snack smart Hot weather can disrupt normal meal patterns and lead to increased snacking. Prepare by having nutritious options readily available. Keep a container of chopped vegetables and hummus in the fridge for quick access. Freeze yoghurt drops by piping small dots of Greek yoghurt onto baking paper and freezing; these make refreshing, protein-rich treats. Homemade ice lollies made with smoothies offer a healthier alternative to store-bought versions. A small handful of mixed nuts provides protein and healthy fats to keep you satisfied. Having these options prepared in advance makes it easier to make nutritious choices when hunger strikes, even on the hottest days. 7 Go to parties with a plan Summer parties present a particular challenge for balanced eating. Having a small meal containing protein and fibre, such as Greek yoghurt and berries, before attending can help prevent arriving overly hungry. When at the event, first survey all available options before filling your plate, allowing you to make conscious choices rather than automatically taking everything. Position yourself away from the food table during conversations to prevent mindless grazing. Remember that occasional indulgences are a normal part of enjoying social gatherings; a single event won't derail your health, so focus on enjoyment and connection rather than food perfection. Balance is achieved across days, weeks, and months, rather than within every meal or event. 8 Freeze your fruit Frozen fruits offer convenience, affordability, and preserved nutrients as they're frozen at peak ripeness. For a simple dessert, blend frozen bananas for a creamy ice cream alternative with natural sweetness and no added sugar. Frozen berries can be partially thawed and added to yoghurt for a refreshing snack. Try freezing grapes for nature's 'sweets' that take longer to eat, helping with mindful consumption. Frozen fruit also makes smoothies naturally cold without diluting with ice. Since frozen fruit is pre-prepared and lasts for months, it removes preparation barriers when fresh produce might spoil quickly in summer heat, making healthy choices more convenient. 9 Make your breakfast the night before Traditional hot breakfasts often lose appeal during summer. Overnight oats offer a cooling alternative that preserves the nutritional benefits of porridge, simply combine oats with milk or yoghurt and let them sit in the fridge overnight. Adding protein, such as Greek yoghurt or a spoonful of nut butter, can help us feel fuller for longer. Smoothie bowls with added unsweetened protein powder, nuts, and seeds provide a refreshing, nutrient-dense option. Preparing these options the night before means we don't have to rush around in the morning and provides nutritious options when we're short on time. These approaches ensure you're not skipping breakfast, which research shows can impact energy levels and food choices throughout the day. 10 Batch cook for busy days Summer often brings spontaneous activities that can disrupt meal routines. Batch-preparing core components on the weekend creates flexibility while maintaining a nutritious diet. Cook extra portions of protein, such as chicken breasts or hard-boiled eggs, to add to salads or sandwiches. Prepare a large batch of mixed roasted vegetables that can be eaten cold or reheated. Wash and chop the salad ingredients, then store them separately with kitchen towels to absorb moisture, thereby extending their freshness. Cook and freeze portions of whole grains, such as brown rice or quinoa, that can be quickly defrosted. This preparation enables you to quickly assemble balanced meals when opportunities for outdoor activities arise, supporting both your health goals and ability to enjoy the longer days.
Daily Record
25-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Doctor shares ‘rare but serious' Mounjaro side effect and how to recognise it
It can result in patients having to come off the medication. Mounjaro has been taking the world by storm since it began rolling out on the NHS earlier this year. Around 220,000 patients are to be prescribed the weight loss drug over the next three years. But as with any medication, Mounjaro doesn't come without its side effects. Common consequences of taking the drug include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and constipation, which around one in 10 people taking the jab will experience. While these common symptoms can be managed, there are also side effects of the weight loss medication that are much more rare and can do significantly more harm. Dr Ethan Melillo, who often shares health advice to his 550K TikTok followers, has warned in one of his videos of a 'rare but serious' side effect of Mounjaro- acute pancreatitis. The doctor said: "Whenever I'm counselling a patient about [Mounjaro], I do mention this because it is a rare but it is a serious side effect." And the health professional's claim is backed by Mounjaro manufacturers, who list pancreatitis as one of the drug's most severe side effects. Here's everything you need to know. What is pancreatitis? The NHS explains that acute pancreatitis is a condition where the pancreas (a small organ behind the stomach that helps with digestion) becomes inflamed over a short period of time. Most people with acute pancreatitis start to feel better within about a week and have no further problems. But some people with severe acute pancreatitis can go on to develop serious complications. Acute pancreatitis can develop into chronic pancreatitis, which is when the organ becomes permanently damaged from inflammation over many years. How does Mounjaro cause pancreatitis? Health website Second Nature explains that Mounjaro mimics the hormones which affect our hunger levels and the pancreas. While the drug primarily affects insulin levels in the body to improve blood sugar levels, it also activates receptor cells in the small ducts of the pancreas. When Mounjaro binds to these receptors, the cells can grow slightly, narrowing the small ducts that drain digestive enzymes out of the organ. Very rarely, this can lead to a backup of digestive enzymes, triggering inflammation and causing acute pancreatitis. The official medication guide for Mounjaro lists pancreatitis as a severe side effect of taking the medication. It says: "Stop using MOUNJARO and call your healthcare provider right away if you have severe pain in your stomach area (abdomen) that will not go away, with or without vomiting. You may feel the pain from your abdomen to your back." What are the symptoms of pancreatitis? Pancreatitis effects less than one in 100 people who take Mounjaro, but it's important to know the signs as the condition can be dangerous. The NHS lists symptoms of pancreatitis as: suddenly getting severe pain in the centre of your tummy (abdomen) feeling or being sick a high temperature of 38C or more (fever) Article continues below The doctor continued: "I tell patients that if you experience any pain in your stomach that radiates to your back to let me know right away and then we can discuss stopping the medication. "Your doctor may also do bloodwork as well on an annual basis, just to make sure that you're tolerating the medication." Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
Scottish Sun
18-06-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
We've spent thousands on ‘Mounjaro makeovers' – it's the king of fat jabs but it left us with shocking side effect
WITH Mounjaro users shedding nearly double the amount of weight compared to its other counterparts, it's no wonder the injection is being dubbed the 'king' of fat jabs. But with such drastic results, it's becoming all too common for users to experience side effects they may never have expected - and when that happens, you get yourself booked in for a £10,000 'Mounjaro makeover'. 8 Abbie Rose, 28, started taking Mounjaro in December but was stunned at the shocking side effect 8 Abbie says the fat jab helped her achieve her dream body - but she still had to go under the knife 8 Claire Wilson, stomach pictured, was left with an abundance of loose skin after losing three stone on Mounjaro After injecting the wonder drug for mere months and watching the weight drop off stone by stone, Brits up and down the country are feeling healthier and sexier. But when the fat is gone and all but stretched skin remains, many will feel disheartened at not having achieved their dream body with a quick fix. Mounjaro users are more likely to experience saggy, excess skin compared to those using other brands of fat jabs because of rapid weight loss, according to cosmetic surgeons. Mum-of-three Claire Wilson was one of them - shedding three stone on Mounjaro, she was left with an abundance of loose skin around her middle, which she just couldn't stomach. She told The Sun how the fat jab completely changed her life when she hit 13st after turning 40. But it wasn't the end of her weight loss journey as she'd hoped - and she decided to go under the knife for a £10,000 'Mounjaro makeover' to achieve her dream figure. The makeover is a combination of cosmetic procedures sought by patients to remove excess skin after rapid weight loss. Claire had four pounds of flabby skin removed, finally hit her goal weight of 9st and cried with joy when she looked in the mirror for the first time. The 43-year-old from Swansea told Fabulous: 'I've spent decades hating my body. 'But I burst into tears the second I saw my new, flat stomach. Mounjaro Weight Loss injection from Ozeias Se Silva Known As Ozzy Tudo 'I used to hate my reflection and looking at myself but the second I had the surgery and saw how different I looked, I just couldn't believe it. It's changed my life.' 'King' of fat jabs Mounjaro - dubbed the "King Kong" of weight loss jabs - helped people shed significantly more weight than it's rival Wegovy, research published in the New England Journal of Medicine found. Though both drugs were effective for weight loss, Mounjaro not only helped people shed more pounds, but they also lost more inches around their waist. Mounjaro's active ingredient is tirzepatide, while Wegovy's is semaglutide - the same active drug in diabetes jab Ozempic. One study, by weight loss programme Second Nature, found that Mounjaro users experienced a 21.4% reduction in body weight, while Ozempic patients saw a 11.2% reduction over a 40 week period. I've had three children so like lots of mums I ended up with loose skin but losing weight on Mounjaro it became even more evident. Claire Wilson Dr Darren Smith, a New York cosmetic surgeon, explained how the rapid weight loss from Mounjaro can contribute to excess skin laxity. Explaining the trend, which is rising in popularity in the US, he told his Instagram followers: 'The term 'Mounjaro Makeover' is increasingly popular, and this is a term I use to describe any combination of operations that we're performing to help you get rid of extra skin that you're seeing after weight loss with Mounjaro. 'In many cases, patients that are using Mounjaro and losing a significant amount of weight over a very short period of time might experience even more significant skin laxity than patients that are doing it with Ozempic. 'Patients on Mounjaro are often achieving nearly bariatric surgical levels of weight loss, and these patients are having operations similar to those patients after bariatric surgery to get rid of extra skin.' 'I hated my excess skin' Claire weighed 13st at her heaviest and while she would have liked to work off her weight gain in the gym, like she had done in the past, she noticed her metabolism slowed down when she hit 40. She says: 'I've gained and lost around three stone three or four times in my life. 'I'd ended up around 13st but I'm only 5ft 2in and when I tried to exercise and diet the weight off this time around, I simply couldn't.' Claire began researching fat jabs and decided to try Mounjaro. She added: 'I saw so many people on social media losing over 9lbs a week. I was keen to try it for myself.' Claire started using the jabs in May 2024 and the weight began to drop away at a rapid rate. 8 Mum-of-three Claire, stomach pictured, spent thousands on a 'Mounjaro Makeover' and had four pounds of flabby skin chopped off 8 Like Claire, Abbie also had a makeover which consisted of a tummy tuck, muscle repair and liposuction 8 Abbie reveals she was 'over the moon' after seeing the results of her makeover She says: 'It was amazing. It totally changed my appetite. I was on a 2.5mg dose to begin with, which went up to 5mg. That was my maximum dose which I'm still on now. It's a maintenance dose I take every two weeks to keep my appetite low." But by September of that year, she noticed that her excess skin was becoming an issue. 'I've had three children so like lots of mums I ended up with loose skin but losing weight on Mounjaro it became even more evident,' she says. 'I absolutely hated it, which is when I started thinking about a Mounjaro makeover. 'I spent over £1,000 on Mounjaro and then saved £10,000 to have tummy tuck surgery. 'I hated the excess skin and what I looked like, my self-esteem was terrible and it affected every area of my life.' Claire's surgery last month - after she hit her target weight of nine stone - was the culmination of 13 months of weight loss. I'm so happy with the new body I have, getting rid of my flabby tummy has changed my life Claire Wilson Her surgeon, Iain Whitaker; professor of Plastic Surgery, and The Welsh Representative on BAAPS Council, performed a 'fleur de lys' surgery with a horizontal and vertical incision before removing around 4lbs(1.75kg) of Claire's excess skin. She says: 'I couldn't believe the amount of skin they removed, there was so much, the video (taken by the medical team) was incredible when I first saw it, around 1.75kg of skin was removed. 'I've been in a bit of discomfort but the recovery has been incredible. I'm still bound at the moment to help reduce scarring but then the surgery was only recently. 'My recovery is ongoing but I'm so happy with the new body I have, getting rid of my flabby tummy has changed my life.' Claire says she can't wait to get into a bikini this summer. She adds: 'It's incredible how much my confidence has changed. 'Having a Mounjaro makeover has completely changed how I feel about myself. I feel sexier than I have in years and have had loads of compliments from friends.' 'Easy way out' Meanwhile, Abbie Rose, 28, started taking Mounjaro in December and credits it with helping her achieve her dream body. The mum of three from Shropshire says: 'I was a size 12 and weighed 11 stone 9lbs. 'I think there can be some negativity around weight loss injections but they're amazing. 'I think if they help people and give them their confidence back, that's amazing.' But, like Claire, she was left with extra skin around her stomach, so she booked in with Professor Whitaker to help her hit her ideal weight of 9st 7lbs. She says: 'My Mounjaro makeover consisted of a tummy tuck, muscle repair and liposuction, it was £9,000. 'It was uncomfortable but manageable when it came to the pain and the recovery. I was over the moon when I first saw my results. The Mounjaro Makeover can remove skin from anywhere with the most common areas being the abdomen, arms, breasts, or thighs – or a combination Professor Whitaker 'I spent £300 on Mounjaro injections and the Mounjaro makeover isn't something I went into with my eyes closed. 'I spoke to lots of friends and family about it and they were supportive of my decision and knew it was something I had wanted for a long time, around seven years.' Claire agrees - despite having received negativity, she says she simply couldn't have achieved the body she has now by exercise and diet alone. She told The Sun: 'It's easy for people to say Mounjaro and Mounjaro makeovers are cheating and are the easy way out. 'But I've battled with my weight for years and, thanks to the injections and Professor Whitaker, I'm at the exact weight I want to be, and I have a body I've always dreamed of having.' Professor Whitaker says a patient should be at or near their target weight, with a BMI around 25 or lower, before considering surgery. He says: 'That ensures the skin is looser and the fat thickness is reduced, which reduces tension on the closure, better blood supply, reduced complications and leads to better results. 8 She took the plunge once she hit her ideal weight of 9st 7lbs 8 Abbie says her friends and family were supportive of her choice to get the makeover 'Surgery is most successful when the weight is stable. Some people may still have a bit to lose post-surgery, but they've already done the hard work.' He adds: 'The hashtag #mounjaromakeover started in the US but like a lot of trends, it's come to the UK. Now dozens of women have shared their Moujaro makeovers online." Mounjaro is approved for weight loss in the UK, while Ozempic is only approved for type 2 diabetes. Gemma Collins and Jeremy Clarkson are two of the Brit stars who have admitted using Mounjaro, while Sharon Osbourne, Amy Schumer and Oprah Winfrey have discussed their Ozempic journeys. Prof Whitaker adds: 'The Mounjaro Makeover can remove skin from anywhere with the most common areas being the abdomen, arms, breasts, or thighs – or a combination. 'Each has its pros and cons, but the abdomen is by far the most common and the area I'm asked for when it comes to Mounjaro Makeovers the most.' Everything you need to know about fat jabs Weight loss jabs are all the rage as studies and patient stories reveal they help people shed flab at almost unbelievable rates, as well as appearing to reduce the risk of serious diseases. Wegovy – a modified version of type 2 diabetes drug Ozempic – and Mounjaro are the leading weight loss injections used in the UK. Wegovy, real name semaglutide, has been used on the NHS for years while Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a newer and more powerful addition to the market. Mounjaro accounts for most private prescriptions for weight loss and is set to join Wegovy as an NHS staple this year. How do they work? The jabs work by suppressing your appetite, making you eat less so your body burns fat for energy instead and you lose weight. They do this my mimicking a hormone called GLP-1, which signals to the brain when the stomach is full, so the drugs are officially called GLP-1 receptor agonists. They slow down digestion and increase insulin production, lowering blood sugar, which is why they were first developed to treat type 2 diabetes in which patients' sugar levels are too high. Can I get them? NHS prescriptions of weight loss drugs, mainly Wegovy and an older version called Saxenda (chemical name liraglutide), are controlled through specialist weight loss clinics. Typically a patient will have to have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, classifying them as medically obese, and also have a weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure. GPs generally do not prescribe the drugs for weight loss. Private prescribers offer the jabs, most commonly Mounjaro, to anyone who is obese (BMI of 30+) or overweight (BMI 25-30) with a weight-related health risk. Private pharmacies have been rapped for handing them out too easily and video calls or face-to-face appointments are now mandatory to check a patient is being truthful about their size and health. Are there any risks? Yes – side effects are common but most are relatively mild. Around half of people taking the drug experience gut issues, including sickness, bloating, acid reflux, constipation and diarrhoea. Dr Sarah Jarvis, GP and clinical consultant at said: 'One of the more uncommon side effects is severe acute pancreatitis, which is extremely painful and happens to one in 500 people.' Other uncommon side effects include altered taste, kidney problems, allergic reactions, gallbladder problems and hypoglycemia. Evidence has so far been inconclusive about whether the injections are damaging to patients' mental health. Figures obtained by The Sun show that, up to January 2025, 85 patient deaths in the UK were suspected to be linked to the medicines. Prof Whitaker says surgery after large weight loss on Mounjaro is honestly the only option. 'The reality is, once you've lost that kind of weight, no matter what anyone says, it's unlikely you can bring the abdominal muscles back together through physio or exercise alone. And you certainly can't remove the excess skin without surgery. 'The idea that injections, lasers, suction, or radiofrequency devices can meaningfully tighten that skin after this volume of weight loss is, frankly, complete nonsense. 'None of those approaches are effective for the kind of skin laxity we're talking about here. The only real solution is surgery.'
Daily Mirror
17-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
'I looked healthy but GP said I was pre-diabetic - a weird change reversed it'
Will McKechnie thought he was healthy because he exercises seven times a week and doesn't drink or smoke A grandad who exercised seven times a week was shocked when a health MOT revealed he was pre-diabetic - and has revealed the unusual change he made to reverse the disease. Dance teacher Will McKechnie, 66, was active and weighed 11st 13lb, and easily slipping into a size medium shirt, he wasn't worried about his health and ate what he liked. But an NHS 'over 60s MOT' included a blood test and revealed he had an average blood sugar level of 44 mmol/mo - indicative of pre-diabetes. He had no idea his nightly Yorkie bar and packet of crisps was putting him in danger because he "looked healthy" from the outside. Grandfather-of-four Will from Lytham St Annes, Lancashire, ditched the snacks but also changed the way he ate, with great success. Instead of wolfing down his dinner, packing in as much as he could in a meal, he now chews slowly and says it makes him feel more full. And it now takes 40 minutes to eat his lunch - wholemeal chicken sandwiches. In nine months his blood sugar was down to normal - 41 mmol/mo. He weighs 10st 2lb after losing 1st 11lb pounds, lost two inches off his waist, and switched to size small shirts. Dad-of-five Will said: "I was so shocked and worried to hear I was pre-diabetic. I was petrified at the idea that I might be starting to get poor health. Before I heard that I just thought everyone sometimes has a bit of high blood sugar. "And before that, before the blood test, I honestly thought I was really fit and healthy. When he said it wouldn't be reversible over 48 I was terrified. Now I feel very very lucky that I had the test. I'm so much fitter and stronger and have enormous amounts of energy." Will, who looks after his 18-month grandson alongside teaching two dance classes each week, thought it didn't matter what he ate because his weight was good and he was strong - just months earlier he'd been dancing seven times a week. He had the test in May 2023 but only found out he was pre-diabetic when his GP looked over the results a year later, during a different appointment. His breakfast now consists of fruit, and a typical dinner is boiled eggs, roasted peanuts, celery, cherry tomatoes, carrots and cucumber. He's lost the sugar cravings that used to dominate his days, he said, and no longer has to dart into the nearest shop to find his chocolate fix. Will, quit smoking in 1986 and alcohol in 2012, used an app called 'Second Nature' provided on the NHS to help him overhaul his diet. Will said: "I loved eating Yorkie bars and crisps, and ice cream. I just have a very occasional treat now, and much smaller. I'm very determined, if I set my mind to doing something I'll do it, and I'm going to get my blood sugar even lower. "Even if you have to pay for it it's worth getting your blood sugar checked routinely. It's much much better to find out. And if you're addicted to eating sugar just try to cut it down. I'm so relieved I had that test. It has changed my life and made me so much fitter."
