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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Healthy Cake Recipes for Weight Loss — And UK Weight Management Options
Healthy cake recipes can fit into a weight loss plan when made with reduced sugar and fat, but sustainable weight management in the UK often involves a combination of approaches. For adults struggling with weight, prescription weight loss medication may be available through the NHS or private prescribing. This guide explores lighter cake options alongside evidence-based UK weight management solutions, including GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy, which are approved for eligible adults seeking professional support.
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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.
Prescription Weight Loss Options Available in the UK
Three main prescription weight management medications are licensed in the UK for adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or 27 and above with weight-related health conditions:
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide) — a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, injected once weekly. Clinical trials showed average weight loss of 15–21% of body weight over 72 weeks when combined with dietary changes and increased physical activity.
- Wegovy (semaglutide) — a GLP-1 receptor agonist, also injected once weekly. STEP trial data demonstrated average weight loss of approximately 15% of body weight at the highest dose.
- Saxenda (liraglutide) — a daily GLP-1 injection, with average weight loss of around 5–8% of body weight. All three medications work by reducing appetite, increasing feelings of fullness, and helping regulate blood sugar. Individual results vary significantly, and these medications are prescribed alongside dietary changes and exercise, not as replacements for lifestyle modifications.
Check your BMI using our free BMI calculator above to see if you might be eligible for prescription weight management options.
Clinically BackedWeight Loss
No appointments. No waiting rooms. Just care — from a UK-regulated online pharmacy.
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 vs Private Weight Loss Treatment in the UK
NHS access: Available through specialist tier 3 weight management services following a referral from your GP. Availability varies significantly by region, and waiting times can be lengthy in many areas. Your GP can discuss whether you meet eligibility criteria for NHS specialist services.
Private access: GLP-1 weight loss medications are available through private online prescribing following a clinical assessment with a UK-licensed prescriber. This route does not require NHS referral and offers more immediate access, though medications are self-funded. Whether you choose NHS or private weight management support, professional guidance ensures medication is used safely and effectively alongside healthy eating, physical activity, and behavioural changes for sustainable weight loss results.
- 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.
Can cake be part of a weight loss diet?
Yes, in moderation. Lighter cake recipes using less sugar, reduced-fat ingredients, and smaller portions can fit into a weight loss plan. However, sustainable weight loss also depends on overall calorie intake, physical activity, and consistent healthy habits. For some people, prescription weight loss medication prescribed by a healthcare professional may provide additional support.
Who is eligible for prescription weight loss medication in the UK?
Adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or 27 and above with weight-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnoea, may be eligible. Your GP or a licensed prescriber will assess your individual circumstances to determine suitability. Lower BMI thresholds may apply for people of South Asian, Chinese, Black African, or Black Caribbean heritage.
How much weight can I expect to lose with Mounjaro or Wegovy?
Clinical trials showed average weight loss of 15–21% of body weight with Mounjaro and approximately 15% with Wegovy. However, individual results vary significantly based on genetics, lifestyle factors, and adherence to healthy eating and exercise. Our free GLP-1 weight loss calculator can help you estimate potential outcomes at different doses.
Can I get weight loss injections on the NHS?
Yes, Mounjaro and other GLP-1 medications are available through NHS specialist weight management services in some areas. However, availability varies by region and waiting times can be long. Your GP can refer you to local tier 3 weight management services to explore options. Private prescribing offers an alternative with faster access.
Do I need to change my diet if I take Mounjaro or Wegovy?
Yes, prescription weight loss medications work most effectively alongside dietary changes and increased physical activity. These medications reduce appetite and help you feel fuller, making it easier to eat less, but they do not replace the need for healthy eating habits and regular exercise for sustainable, long-term weight management results.
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.