Hi, I’m Ravi, a doctor working at WW and I’m taking over the WW UK blog this week to give some insight to our healthcare schemes across the UK and the benefits the WW weight-loss programme can provide to members.
WW Health works with Public Health and the NHS to tackle unhealthy lifestyles and weight in local communities, offering a FREE 12-session programme in major areas across the country. One such area is Hampshire, who in line with their Healthy Weight Strategy, have partnered with WW to support residents who are at risk of ill health and unhealthy weight. From a healthcare perspective, I find that this programme is very beneficial as it offers people who may not normally be able to join WW, access to the service for free for 12 sessions. In Hampshire, the goal is to support members to lose 5% of their initial body weight and this can have significant health benefits such as:
- Lowered cholesterol levels
- Improved blood sugar control
- Reduced aches and pains
- Improved mobility
- Improved sleep
- Reduced risks of cardiac disease
- Reduced risk of certain cancers
There is nothing better than seeing the positive impact the programme has on members' lives.
Meet one of our members
Ty Gould from Basingstoke, Hampshire was diagnosed with Dilated Cardiomyopathy, a weakened heart that can lead to heart failure. He was managing it with medication but in 2016, Ty suffered a sudden cardiac arrest and had to have a pacemaker fitted. Ty’s BMI had contributed to his condition, therefore his consultant suggested he lose 5 stone and referred him to WW. Being male, Ty was sceptical about the programme so thought he would do the free 12-week programme and then move on.
However, he persisted and in 10 months lost 5st 7lb! He is now physically fitter than ever and in a much better place.
Tys journey is very interesting because it shows the positive benefits of WW and how it has changed his life. It has helped prolong his life expectancy and there have been conversations about turning off his pacemaker which would be amazing. He has acquired the tools to maintain this lifestyle going forward and a new mindset.
"I'm the healthiest I've been for 30 years! My heart function is back to normal and the weight loss is a major factor in this. Life is good!"
To find out if you have a scheme in your area, email us: on referral@weight-watchers.co.uk with your postcode.