Weight Loss

Overview

Managing weight is one of the most common health concerns in the UK. Carrying extra weight can affect both physical health and confidence, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and joint problems. But the good news is that even modest weight loss — around 5–10% of your body weight — can bring real health improvements, from boosting energy levels to reducing strain on your body.

At SwiftMedi, all treatments are prescribed by UK-registered prescribers after a quick online consultation. Medicines are dispensed from our UK-registered pharmacy and delivered discreetly to your door, often the next day. Losing weight isn’t just about the scales — it’s about feeling more in control of your health, building confidence, and enjoying life to the fullest.

Symptoms

Being overweight or obese is not an illness in itself, but it can contribute to:

• Tiredness or low energy
• Breathlessness during daily activity
• Joint or back pain
• Poor sleep or snoring
• Reduced confidence or self-esteem

Many weight-related health risks, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or insulin resistance, may not cause obvious symptoms but can still have long-term effects.

Diagnosis

Doctors usually check weight using Body Mass Index (BMI), which compares weight to height. A BMI of 25–29.9 is considered overweight, while 30 or above is classed as obese. Carrying extra weight around the stomach (measured by waist circumference) further increases health risks.

Blood tests may also be used to check for conditions linked to weight, such as diabetes or thyroid disorders.

Treatments

Effective weight management is about finding the right support. Options include:

• Lifestyle changes – improving diet and increasing daily activity are the foundation of weight control. Even small changes can add up.
• Structured support – group programmes, apps, or behavioural therapy can help with motivation and accountability.
• Medication – treatments such as Wegovy, Mounjaro, Saxenda, and Orlistat may be prescribed alongside lifestyle changes. These work by reducing appetite, slowing digestion, or preventing fat absorption.
• Surgery – for severe obesity, procedures such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy may be considered.

At SwiftMedi, licensed weight loss treatments are available following a simple online consultation. Our prescribers carefully review your health and medical history to ensure your chosen treatment is safe and appropriate. Once approved, your medicine is delivered quickly and discreetly — so you can get started without delay.

Prevention

Maintaining a healthy weight is often easier than losing weight after it’s been gained. Helpful strategies include:

• Eating balanced meals with whole foods, lean protein, and plenty of fruit and veg
• Reducing processed foods, sugar, and alcohol
• Staying active with regular movement, not just structured exercise
• Getting enough sleep and managing stress, which both affect appetite and metabolism

Misconceptions

There are many myths around weight loss, including:

“Carbs make you fat” – weight gain is caused by excess calories, not one food group.

“Skipping meals helps” – this often backfires, leading to overeating later.

“Medication is a quick fix” – treatments like Wegovy or Mounjaro work best alongside lifestyle changes.

FAQ

How quickly will I lose weight?
Safe, sustainable weight loss is around 0.5–1kg (1–2lbs) per week. Crash diets often lead to weight regain.

Do I need medication to lose weight?
Not always. Lifestyle changes can be enough, but for some people, prescription medicines provide the extra support needed to achieve results.

Is it safe to use weight loss injections?
Yes — treatments such as Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Saxenda are approved, clinically proven, and safe when prescribed under medical supervision.

Can losing weight improve my health?
Yes. Even small reductions can lower blood pressure, improve blood sugar, ease strain on joints, and reduce the risk of serious illness.