IMPACT OF COVID WEIGHS HEAVY ON BRITS

Brits urged to seek help tackling lockdown weight gain

Research published today reveals the impact of lockdown on the nation's health, with UK adults claiming to have gained an average of almost 10 pounds since the arrival of Covid-19. But as almost three quarters (72%) of those surveyed also report feeling more stressed and anxious, it is important ‘to be kind to yourself’, say Well Pharmacy.

The research commissioned by Well Pharmacy, the UK’s largest independent pharmacy, of 2,000 people suggests up to 23 million UK adults have put on weight during lockdown, whilst almost two thirds (64%) say they have drunk more alcohol.

Top reasons given include comfort eating, less exercise, being trapped indoors and stress according to research by Well Pharmacy. Of those who have put on weight during the pandemic, 40% say it will make them reluctant to bare their bodies on the beach this summer and 73% say they are keen to shed some pounds to improve their health and self-esteem.

Amul Mistry, Pharmacist from Well Pharmacy said: “The results of our research are concerning. Having worked on the frontline throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, I have seen first-hand the impact this pandemic has had on the nation’s mental health. Over the last 12 months, people have not had access to the same support and local groups that would usually help them on their weight loss journey.

“By the time patients come to us for advice on their weight loss journey, they are looking for more solutions and additional support. We urge everyone to come and get professional guidance and support whatever that might look like. Whether it is suggesting Food Replacement Programmes such as Lipotrim, or providing one to one consultations and advice, or in some cases prescribed medication.”

On the positive side, one in six adults have managed to lose weight during lockdown, and a strong-willed 24 per cent actually cut down on alcohol. 73% say they are keen to lose some excess weight to improve their health and self-esteem.

Amul Mistry, from Well Pharmacy added: “Obesity is a risk factor for serious health conditions, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes, but also with a higher risk for Covid-19 complications, meaning it has never been more important to manage and maintain a healthy weight.”

Well Pharmacy have put together their weight loss top tips:

1. Sign up to Government initiatives to help you get active, such as Couch to 5k.
2. Share your goals with friends and family so that they can support you on your weight loss journey.
3. Balance is key to a healthy lifestyle. Carbs and fats are not your enemy – you can still enjoy them all in moderation.
4. Set yourself daily goals, no matter how big or small. Small steps are also progress.
5. Make sure you drink enough water – our bodies need 2.5 litres a day Water not only keeps your body hydrated but can help make you feel fuller and encourage you to eat less.

As lockdown restrictions begin to ease, Well Pharmacy wants to support people struggling to manage their weight and has launched a new private healthcare service for obese and overweight patients.

Medication is prescribed alongside increased movement and activity which helps patients maintain results with the ongoing guidance and support from pharmacists throughout your weight loss journey. For more information on the Medicated Weight Management Service offered by Well Pharmacy, please visit: https://www.well.co.uk/health-services/medicated-weight-management-service

Ends

Editors notes

Research of 2,000 UK adults was conducted by Atomik Research. The research fieldwork took place on 9th – 13th April 2021. Atomik Research is an independent creative market research agency that employs MRS-certified researchers and abides to MRS code. 

Well Pharmacy is the UK's largest independent pharmacy chain.