Kim's story

How much weight have you lost and how long did it take?

I started at the beginning of lockdown and lost 9 and a half stone over 2 years. Then in the summer of 2023 I stopped tracking, thinking I could do it without the support of Nutracheck. But I quickly began to fall back into old habits and started gaining some of the weight back. In January 2024, I realised that if I didn't get back on it I would've gained all my weight again so that's when I began tracking and attending the gym 4-5 times a week. Just after lockdown when we were allowed to exercise outside, I started attending my local Clubbercise class once or twice a week and I still attend the class now. They really helped me gain some confidence once I started losing weight. Now in total I have lost 10st 7lbs147lbs66.6kg.

What prompted your decision to lose weight?

My decision came at the beginning of the pandemic. This was because although I knew that I needed to lose weight, I thought being at home and not at work, I would gain more and I was also worried that having such a high BMI would mean that if I did catch Covid then I might have been affected more.

How did you hear about Nutracheck?

I heard about Nutracheck on Facebook. I joined a couple of groups and then I downloaded the app.

Has your weight stayed fairly consistent over the years, or have you always had to manage it?

I have always struggled with my weight, joining slimming clubs numerous times since I was 15 but found that they didn't help in the long-term because they are very restrictive.

Have you experienced any health improvements?

My health has improved massively. I no longer get out of breath just walking up the stairs and I exercise regularly now which I enjoy because I find it easier without the excess weight. I have more energy which helps me with my job that involves looking after children with additional needs and I can take my own children swimming without worrying about what I look like or being too tired.

How easy was it to fit the changes you made into your lifestyle?

I found it easy to fit the changes into my lifestyle because I didn't have to cut anything out. If I'm invited out for a meal or if I fancy chocolate or sweets I just plan it into my day. But I have found that I don't crave them as often anymore and I also find that I struggle to eat bigger portions now.

What was the most difficult thing?

I think the most difficult thing was trying to get my head around being able to eat anything without feeling guilty! With other slimming clubs I was taught from a young age that certain foods were bad but I've learnt over the years that everything is ok in moderation. They also taught me that certain foods are allowed in an unlimited amount which is also not good because that didn't teach me about portion control. I also found it difficult to stay on track once I stopped using Nutracheck.

How do you feel now compared to before?

I feel the healthiest I have ever been. I can now go into a shop and buy clothes or online knowing they will fit. I don't have to go to plus size shops anymore and I'm no longer embarrassed doing simple things like going swimming with my children or going out with my friends.

Any notable milestones to report?

Losing 10 and a half stone is the best milestone I can think of! I never thought I could do it and I'm so proud of myself for achieving it.

What 3 tips would you give to anyone who has weight to lose?

1. Don't set your calories too low because you will lose weight quicker at first and then once your body gets used to it, you can gradually lower them.
2. Don't be disheartened by gains especially if you're a woman because of hormonal changes. There are lots of factors to weight gains including eating a bigger meal the night before or even exercise can cause a small gain at first because of the water retention.
3. Lastly, take pictures because even if the scales aren't showing a loss, pictures will. If you're having a tough time they are great to look back on to show you how far you've come.