GP weight loss advice

[piechuck]

Has anyone ever gone to their GP and asked for help losing weight?

I'm just wondering what help they can actually give. I'm v aware of what I need to do to lose weight, and currently v motivated through MFP, but worrying about if/when the motivation drops off, what then?

[Emz449]

It wasn't my GP, but when i went for my pill check the nurse basically said i needed to lose weight or i wouldn't be able to continue with the contraception i was currently on. I was directed to this website www.nhs.uk/livewell/loseweight/Pages/Loseweighthome.aspx and told that if that didn't work then a referral to weight watchers or slimming world could be given. To be honest i was so embarrassed that my weight had reached that point it spurred me into action and i'm 3 stone lighter

[piechuck]

Thanks Emz, I can imagine that would be enough of a kick to do something, wonder if the GP has anything else to add to 'advice'? (I suppose I'm thinking drugs, or feeding clinics - that kind of thing)

[Emz449]

I suppose it would depend on your need really, how long you've been dieting for, if it's been successful and how much you have to lose etc.

I started a thread called 'MFP to lose weight' and there are a fair few of us who are on there posting daily updates of how we're getting on. Feel free to come and join us, everyone has their ups and downs but I find it very motivational and supportive so you would be more than welcome

[Ishtar2410]

About 15 years ago I asked for help and was referred to the nurse, who weighed me and gave advice on a healthy diet. It wasn't very successful, but perhaps I didn't want to lose weight as much as I thought.

Depending on where you live, your GP can offer vouchers for Weight Watchers or Slimming World - there are quite a few people with NHS referrals at the WW meeting I go to.

Might be worth asking.