Diet and Weight

If you are overweight you have a higher risk of a number of health conditions. Often getting to and maintaining a healthy weight takes changes to diet and physical activity habits. This is not something that individuals have to do alone. Local support services are available to support getting to and maintaining a healthy weight which has many benefits.

• Decreased risk of a number of health conditions
• Improved mobility
• Decreased joint pain
• Positive impact on mental health
• Reducing the risk of developing some types of dementia

Use open discovery questions to make the most of conversations by recognising an opportunity to discuss health and wellbeing.

Acknowledge the response by using healthy conversation skills such as active listening, reflecting or showing empathy. This will allow for a joint understanding of the support a person needs.

Take appropriate action to either give information, signpost to a local service or refer them yourself. Remember that the solution must be person centered and they must want to change.

Across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland there are services in place to support those looking to manage their weight.

There is a weight management services website for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, supported by the local integrated care system and NHS England.

Service information has been collated for adult weight management services in the city and counties with information to support referrals and continuing professional development for healthcare professionals.

For members of the public there are links to wellbeing hubs, which can support people to find opportunities for weight management and other healthy lifestyle behaviours such as smoking and sexual health.

What are the health benefits of losing weight? www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/lifestyle/what-are-the-health-benefits-of-losing-weight/

Tips on how to start losing weight www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-weight/start-losing-weight/

Kickstart your health with Better Health www.nhs.uk/better-health/?WT.mc_ID=Google&

Easy ways to eat well and move more as a family https://www.nhs.uk/change4life