The UK's most complete GLP-1 guide
Every Question Answered. Every Side Effect Explained.
- How GLP-1 medications work
- Mounjaro vs Wegovy compared
- Injection instructions
- Side effects & solutions
- What to eat on treatment
- FAQs answered
Free tracker included with every download this week
Are Potatoes Healthy For Weight Loss?
Potatoes are a staple in UK diets, but whether they support weight loss depends on preparation and portion size. Boiled or baked potatoes are nutrient-dense and relatively low in calories, making them suitable for weight management when prepared without added fats. However, fried chips and roasted potatoes with butter are calorie-dense and less helpful for weight loss. For those struggling with weight management, prescription options like Mounjaro and Wegovy are now available in the UK alongside dietary changes. Your GP can advise whether medication might support your goals.
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Enter your height and weight below. Supports both imperial (stone & lbs) and metric (kg). Results include NHS category, healthy weight range, and ethnicity adjustments.
What Is BMI and Why Does It Matter?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is the most widely used screening tool for assessing whether your weight falls within a healthy range. Used by the NHS, GPs, and weight management services across the UK, BMI provides a quick snapshot of your weight relative to your height. The formula is simple: your weight in kilograms divided by your height in metres squared (kg/m²).
While BMI isn't a perfect measure — it doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, or fat distribution — it remains the standard first step in identifying potential weight-related health risks including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and certain cancers.
The NHS also recommends adjusted thresholds for people of South Asian, Chinese, or Black African heritage — a BMI of 23 or above is classified as overweight, and 27.5 as obese. Our calculator includes this adjustment as a one-click toggle.
Potatoes and Weight Loss: The Evidence
Potatoes themselves are not inherently unhealthy for weight loss. A medium boiled potato contains around 100 calories and provides fibre, potassium, and vitamin C. Studies show that boiled potatoes rank highly on the satiety index, meaning they help you feel full for longer — beneficial for reducing overall calorie intake.
The key factor is preparation method. Fried potatoes (chips, crisps) contain 150–200+ calories per 100g due to added oil. Mashed potatoes with butter and cream can double the calorie content. Conversely, boiled, baked, or steamed potatoes with minimal added fat fit well into a weight loss plan. For weight management in the UK, combining a balanced diet with physical activity remains the foundation — though for eligible adults, GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy can provide additional support when prescribed by a healthcare professional.
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How It Works
Three simple steps to understand your weight and take action.
Enter your height and weight in our free calculator. Get your BMI, NHS category, healthy weight range, and ethnicity-adjusted thresholds instantly.
If your BMI suggests you're overweight or obese, explore our GLP-1 calculators to project potential weight loss on Mounjaro or Wegovy.
Use our progress tracker to log your weight weekly, visualise your journey with charts, and stay motivated — all stored privately in your browser.
Free Weight Loss Tools & Guides
Everything you need to understand your weight, explore medication options, and track your progress — completely free.
NHS Weight Loss Support and Prescription Options
If you're finding dietary changes alone challenging, prescription weight loss medication is now available in the UK. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) are GLP-1 receptor agonists licensed for weight management in adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or 27+ with weight-related health conditions. In clinical trials, these medications helped participants lose an average of 15–21% of their body weight — though individual results vary. Access is available through NHS specialist weight management services or private prescribing following clinical assessment. Use our free GLP-1 weight loss calculator to explore potential outcomes, and speak to your GP about eligibility and whether medication might support your weight loss journey alongside lifestyle changes.
- Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Up to 22.5% body weight loss (SURMOUNT-1)
- Weekly injection, dose escalation over 20+ weeks
- Available via private prescription in the UK
- Doses: 2.5mg → 5mg → 7.5mg → 10mg → 12.5mg → 15mg
- GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Up to 15–17% body weight loss (STEP trials)
- Weekly injection, 5-step dose escalation
- NHS & private prescription available
- Doses: 0.25mg → 0.5mg → 1mg → 1.7mg → 2.4mg
Mounjaro vs Wegovy: Head-to-Head
A side-by-side comparison of the two most popular GLP-1 weight loss medications available in the UK.
| Feature | Mounjaro | Wegovy |
|---|---|---|
| Drug class | Dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist | GLP-1 agonist |
| Active ingredient | Tirzepatide | Semaglutide |
| Avg. weight loss | 15–22.5% | 12–17% |
| Key trial | SURMOUNT-1 (2022) | STEP 1 (2021) |
| Max dose | 15 mg weekly | 2.4 mg weekly |
| Escalation period | 20–32 weeks | 16–20 weeks |
| Administration | Weekly injection (pen) | Weekly injection (pen) |
| NHS availability | Private prescription only | NHS & private |
| Approx. private cost | £150–£250/month | £150–£300/month |
| Common side effects | Nausea, diarrhoea, constipation | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea |
Data sourced from SURMOUNT-1 and STEP 1 clinical trials. Costs are approximate and vary by provider. Always consult a prescriber.
Am I Eligible for Weight Loss Medication?
In the UK, eligibility for GLP-1 weight loss medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy is based on your BMI and overall health profile.
- BMI of 30 or above (obese)
- Age 18 or over
- No contraindicated conditions
- Committed to lifestyle changes
- BMI of 27 or above
- Plus type 2 diabetes
- Or high blood pressure
- Or obstructive sleep apnoea
Use our BMI calculator to check whether your BMI falls within the eligible range.
How We Built These Tools
Every calculator and guide on myweightcheck is built with accuracy and transparency in mind. Our BMI calculator uses the standard WHO formula with NHS-aligned category thresholds. Our GLP-1 projections are modelled on published clinical trial data from SURMOUNT and STEP studies.
All data stays on your device. We don't require sign-ups, and we don't store your health information on any server. Your progress tracker saves data locally in your browser using localStorage, so only you can see it.
We're based in the UK and our tools are designed specifically for UK users — supporting stone & lbs by default, referencing NHS guidelines, using NICE-approved medication data, and linking to GPhC-registered pharmacies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about BMI, weight loss medications, and our free UK tools.
Are potatoes good for weight loss?
Boiled or baked potatoes are fine for weight loss — they're low in calories (~100 per medium potato) and promote satiety. The problem is preparation: fried chips and buttered mashed potatoes are calorie-dense. Prepare potatoes without added fats and they fit well into a weight management plan.
What's the best way to prepare potatoes for weight loss?
Boil, bake, or steam potatoes without added butter or oil. Season with herbs, spices, or a small amount of low-fat dressing. Avoid frying, roasting in oil, or loading with cream and butter. Portion control also matters — aim for a medium-sized potato rather than oversized portions.
How can I tell if I'm eligible for prescription weight loss medication in the UK?
You may be eligible if you have a BMI of 30 or above, or 27+ with weight-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnoea. Speak to your GP about referral to specialist weight management services, or consult a UK-licensed prescriber for a private assessment.
What's the difference between Mounjaro and Wegovy for weight loss?
Both are GLP-1 medications licensed for UK weight management. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist; Wegovy (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 agonist only. In trials, Mounjaro showed slightly higher average weight loss (~20% vs ~15%), but individual results vary. Your prescriber will advise which is most suitable.
Do I have to stop eating potatoes if I'm taking weight loss medication?
No. Mounjaro and Wegovy work best alongside balanced nutrition and physical activity — not strict food elimination. Potatoes can remain part of your diet when prepared healthily. The medications help reduce appetite and cravings, making it easier to maintain a calorie deficit sustainably.
Ready to take control of your weight loss journey?
Start with a free BMI check, explore your GLP-1 options, or begin tracking your progress today. No sign-up. No cost. Just results.