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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Chia for Weight Loss — What Works in the UK
Chia seeds are often promoted for weight loss due to their high fibre and protein content, which may support feeling fuller for longer. However, chia alone is unlikely to produce significant weight loss without broader dietary and lifestyle changes. For adults seeking evidence-based weight management in the UK, prescription medication options like Mounjaro and Wegovy are available following clinical assessment. This guide covers both natural approaches and NHS-approved weight loss medication, helping you understand what's available for your weight management journey.
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Calculate Your BMI Instantly
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.
Chia Seeds and Weight Loss — Evidence and Reality
Chia seeds are high in soluble fibre (approximately 10g per 28g serving) and contain plant-based protein, which may help you feel fuller after meals. Some studies suggest that adding chia to a balanced diet can support modest weight loss when combined with calorie reduction and exercise.
However, chia seeds alone do not cause weight loss — they work only as part of a reduced-calorie diet. Eating chia without adjusting overall calorie intake is unlikely to help. The NHS emphasises that sustainable weight management requires a combination of reduced-calorie eating, increased physical activity, and behaviour change.
- Chia seeds provide approximately 138 calories per 28g serving
- High fibre content may reduce hunger if consumed with adequate water
- Most studies show modest benefits (typically 1–2kg over 12 weeks)
- Results vary significantly between individuals
- Chia works best as part of a balanced diet, not as a standalone solution
Clinically BackedWeight Loss
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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 — Evidence-Based Alternatives
For adults with a BMI of 30 or above (or BMI 27–29.9 with weight-related health conditions), prescription weight loss medications are available in the UK. Check your personal BMI using our free BMI calculator above to see if you may be eligible.
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) are GLP-1 medications licensed for weight management. Clinical trials showed average weight loss of 15–21% body weight, though individual results vary significantly. Both are prescription-only and require a clinical assessment. Access through NHS specialist services or private prescribing with a UK-licensed healthcare professional.
Our GLP-1 weight loss calculator can help you explore potential weight loss outcomes at different doses 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.
Will chia seeds alone help me lose weight?
Chia seeds may support weight loss as part of a calorie-controlled diet, but they won't cause weight loss on their own. You must also reduce overall calorie intake and increase physical activity. The NHS recommends a sustainable approach combining dietary changes, exercise, and behaviour change for lasting results.
How much chia should I eat for weight loss?
A typical serving is 28g (about 2 tablespoons) mixed into water, yoghurt, or porridge. This provides approximately 10g of fibre. Start with smaller amounts (1 tablespoon daily) and drink plenty of water, as consuming too much fibre too quickly can cause stomach discomfort. Always consult your GP if you have digestive conditions.
Are prescription weight loss injections available on the NHS in the UK?
Yes. Mounjaro and Wegovy are available through NHS specialist tier 3 weight management services, but access varies by region and waiting lists can be lengthy. You'll need a GP referral and assessment of eligibility. Private prescribing is also available through UK-licensed healthcare professionals following an online clinical assessment.
What's the difference between Mounjaro and Wegovy for weight loss?
Both are prescription-only once-weekly injections. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a dual GIP+GLP-1 agonist; Wegovy (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 agonist. Clinical trials showed Mounjaro may produce slightly higher average weight loss (15–21% vs ~15%), but individual results vary. A prescriber will assess which is more suitable for you.
How do I find out if I'm eligible for prescription weight loss treatment in the UK?
Start by calculating your BMI using our free BMI calculator on this page. If your BMI is 30 or above (or 27–29.9 with weight-related conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure), speak to your GP about referral to specialist weight management services. A prescriber will assess your individual health before recommending treatment.
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.