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
Does Coconut Oil Help with Weight Loss?
Coconut oil is often promoted as a weight loss aid, but the scientific evidence is limited and mixed. While coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that some studies suggest may slightly boost metabolism, it's calorie-dense at around 120 calories per tablespoon. For effective weight management in the UK, NHS guidance focuses on creating a calorie deficit through balanced nutrition and physical activity. If you're looking to lose weight, understanding the real science behind dietary choices—and exploring proven methods—matters more than relying on any single food or oil.
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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.
What Does the Science Say About Coconut Oil?
Research into coconut oil and weight loss shows modest and inconsistent results. A few small studies suggest MCTs in coconut oil may increase energy expenditure slightly and improve feelings of fullness, but these effects are typically very small—often just 10–20 calories per day—and unlikely to produce meaningful weight loss on their own.
- One 2015 study found coconut oil may help reduce waist circumference in overweight adults, but the effect was marginal
- Other studies show no significant advantage over other oils for weight loss
- Coconut oil is still high in saturated fat and calories, just like other oils
- The NHS does not specifically recommend coconut oil as a weight loss tool
The bottom line: coconut oil alone will not cause weight loss. Weight loss requires a sustained calorie deficit, which means consuming fewer calories than you burn. No single food or oil can override this fundamental principle.
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.
What Actually Works for Weight Loss in the UK?
Proven weight management approaches include dietary changes, physical activity, and—when appropriate—prescription medication. The NHS recommends losing weight at a rate of 0.5–1 kg per week for sustainable results. Start by calculating your current BMI using our free BMI calculator, then work with your GP to set realistic goals.
For prescription weight loss support, your GP may refer you to specialist services, or you can explore private options like GLP-1 weight loss injections (Mounjaro or Wegovy). These prescription medications work alongside lifestyle changes and may help you lose an average of 15–21% of body weight according to clinical trials. Try our GLP-1 weight loss calculator to understand what prescription options might mean for you, and speak to your GP about what's right for your situation.
- 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.
Is coconut oil actually bad for weight loss?
Coconut oil isn't inherently "bad," but it won't help you lose weight on its own. At 120 calories per tablespoon, it's calorie-dense like any oil. For weight loss, focus on overall calorie intake rather than specific foods. A balanced diet with whole foods, lean proteins, and vegetables—combined with physical activity—is far more effective.
Can MCTs in coconut oil boost metabolism?
Some research suggests MCTs may increase energy expenditure very slightly, but the effect is minimal—around 10–20 calories per day. This is far too small to create meaningful weight loss. Sustainable weight loss requires a consistent calorie deficit of around 500 kcal per day, which coconut oil cannot provide alone.
Should I avoid coconut oil if I'm trying to lose weight?
You don't need to avoid coconut oil entirely, but it shouldn't be relied upon as a weight loss tool. If you enjoy using it, use it sparingly in cooking and account for the calories in your daily intake. Focus instead on evidence-based methods like balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and—if needed—speaking to your GP about prescription options.
What's the best way to actually lose weight in the UK?
The NHS recommends: creating a calorie deficit (500 kcal/day for ~0.5 kg/week loss), eating balanced meals with whole foods, increasing physical activity, and staying consistent. If you have a BMI of 30 or above (or 27+ with weight-related health conditions), ask your GP about specialist weight management services or prescription weight loss options.
Are there better alternatives to coconut oil for weight loss?
Rather than focusing on specific oils, prioritise overall diet quality. Use herbs and spices for flavour instead of extra oil. If you need additional support beyond lifestyle changes, prescription weight loss medications like GLP-1 injections (available through NHS specialist services or private prescribing) have strong clinical evidence. Consult your GP to explore what's appropriate for you.
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.