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
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Beetroot for Weight Loss — What the Evidence Shows
Beetroot is a nutrient-rich vegetable that some people believe supports weight loss, but the evidence for beetroot as a standalone weight loss tool is limited. Whilst beetroot contains beneficial compounds like betalains and nitrates, sustainable weight loss requires a comprehensive approach combining diet, physical activity, and in some cases, prescription medication. If you're struggling with weight management in the UK, prescription weight loss options are now available for eligible adults alongside lifestyle changes. Let's explore what beetroot can offer and what evidence-based alternatives exist.
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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.
Beetroot's Nutritional Profile and Weight Loss Claims
Beetroot is low in calories (approximately 43 kcal per 100g raw) and high in fibre, making it a nutritious addition to a balanced diet. The vegetable contains betalains (antioxidant pigments), nitrates, and folate, which support general health and may improve blood flow and exercise performance. However, no strong clinical evidence demonstrates that beetroot specifically accelerates weight loss beyond what a reduced-calorie diet provides.
Beetroot does contain fibre (2.4g per 100g), which supports satiety and digestive health—both helpful for managing a calorie deficit. Some small studies suggest beetroot juice may improve exercise performance, potentially supporting physical activity capacity. However, beetroot alone will not create the calorie deficit needed for sustainable weight loss. The key to effective weight management is consistently consuming fewer calories than you burn, alongside increasing physical activity.
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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.
UK Prescription Weight Loss Options for Eligible Adults
If you're overweight or obese and haven't had success with diet and exercise alone, prescription weight loss medications are available in the UK for eligible adults. These include Mounjaro (tirzepatide), Wegovy (semaglutide), and Saxenda (liraglutide)—all GLP-1 or dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist injections that help reduce appetite and support feeling fuller after smaller meals.
You may be eligible if you have a BMI of 30 or above, or 27 or above with weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or cardiovascular disease. Access to prescription weight loss treatment is available through NHS specialist services or private prescribing following a clinical assessment. Your GP can discuss whether this option is suitable for your individual circumstances and refer you to appropriate services.
[Content continues from above]- 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.
Does beetroot actually help with weight loss?
Beetroot is nutritious and low in calories, making it a healthy diet addition, but there's no strong evidence that beetroot specifically causes weight loss beyond what a calorie deficit provides. It supports general health through fibre and antioxidants, which can aid a weight loss plan, but it's not a weight loss tool on its own.
What prescription weight loss medications are available in the UK?
Mounjaro (tirzepatide), Wegovy (semaglutide), and Saxenda (liraglutide) are all UK-licensed for weight management. These are once-weekly or daily injections that work by reducing appetite. They're prescription-only and require a clinical assessment and medical supervision. Individual results vary, typically showing 15–21% average weight loss in clinical trials.
Who is eligible for prescription weight loss medication in the UK?
Adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or 27 or above with weight-related health conditions (diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease), may be eligible. Eligibility is assessed individually by a prescriber or NHS specialist service. Your GP can advise whether you meet criteria for your area.
Should I use beetroot instead of seeking medical help for weight loss?
Beetroot is a healthy food but not a substitute for evidence-based weight management. If you're struggling with weight, speak to your GP about all options—lifestyle changes, dietary support, and in some cases, prescription medication. A personalised approach works best.
How can I find out if I'm eligible for weight loss treatment in the UK?
Start by speaking to your GP, who can assess your BMI, health history, and eligibility for specialist weight management services. You can also use our free BMI calculator to understand your current BMI category, then discuss options with your healthcare provider.
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.