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Willowmed
Health library

Dietetics

Weight management

A steady, sustainable approach, and why crash diets tend to rebound.

5 min read

What it is

Weight is influenced by genetics, sleep, stress, medicines, hormones and life circumstances, not willpower alone. Rapid restrictive diets usually lose muscle along with fat and are difficult to sustain, which is why weight often returns. A slower approach built on habits you can keep tends to hold, and improves blood pressure, glucose and joint pain along the way.

What to look for

Weight creeping up gradually over years rather than suddenly

Weight gain alongside fatigue, cold intolerance or hair changes can point to a thyroid issue worth testing

Sensible things to do at home

  • Eat regular meals; skipping usually leads to larger portions later
  • Protein and vegetables at each meal help you feel full for longer
  • Aim for movement most days, including some resistance work to protect muscle
  • Prioritise sleep — short sleep reliably increases appetite
  • Track habits rather than only the scale

When to see us

  • You want a structured plan with follow-up rather than a one-off diet sheet
  • Weight is affecting joints, breathing, sleep or blood sugar
  • Unintentional weight loss — this always needs a medical assessment

To book, phone the practice on 058 813 2777 or send us a message. In an emergency, go to the nearest emergency department or call 10177.