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
Healthy Smoothie Ideas for Weight Loss
Smoothies can be a convenient way to include fruits, vegetables, and protein in your diet while managing weight — but it depends on ingredients and portion sizes. Many people ask whether smoothies alone support sustainable weight loss. While nutritious blending is helpful alongside a reduced-calorie diet, UK adults with a BMI of 30 or above (or 27+ with weight-related health conditions) may also be eligible for prescription weight loss medication. This guide covers both smoothie strategies and the wider weight management uk options available through your GP.
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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.
Prescription Weight Loss Options in the UK
If you're focused on losing weight in the UK, several prescription weight loss medication options are available for eligible adults. These work alongside healthy eating and physical activity — not instead of them.
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide) — A once-weekly injection that activates two natural hormone pathways (GIP and GLP-1). Clinical trials showed participants lost an average of 15–21% body weight over 72 weeks.
- Wegovy (semaglutide) — A once-weekly GLP-1 injection. Clinical data showed average weight loss of around 15% body weight alongside lifestyle changes.
- Saxenda (liraglutide) — A daily GLP-1 injection, the longest-established weight loss injection in the UK.
All are prescription-only and require a clinical assessment. Eligibility: Adults with BMI 30+, or BMI 27–29.9 with weight-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnoea.
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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 vs Private Access — How to Find Out If You're Eligible
Weight loss medication is available through two routes in the UK. NHS access is through specialist tier 3 weight management services — your GP can refer you, though waiting times vary significantly by region. Private access is available through registered online prescribers following a clinical consultation, without needing an NHS referral.
To find out whether you're eligible, calculate your BMI using our free BMI calculator above, then speak with your GP about your options. They can discuss whether prescription medication, lifestyle support, or both are right for you. Even modest weight loss (5–10% of body weight) can improve blood pressure, blood sugar, and overall health.
- 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 smoothies alone help me lose weight?
Smoothies can support weight loss when made with whole fruits, vegetables, and protein — but portion control matters. A calorie deficit of around 500 kcal daily typically results in about 0.5 kg weekly loss. High-sugar commercial smoothies may hinder progress. Combine smoothies with a balanced diet and, if eligible, discuss prescription options with your GP.
Am I eligible for prescription weight loss medication in the UK?
You may be eligible if you have a BMI of 30 or above, or BMI of 27–29.9 with a weight-related health condition (diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnoea, or heart disease). Calculate your BMI using our free tool above, then ask your GP about referral to specialist weight management services or private prescribing options.
What's the difference between Mounjaro and Wegovy?
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) activates two hormone pathways (GIP and GLP-1), whilst Wegovy (semaglutide) activates one (GLP-1). In clinical trials, Mounjaro showed slightly higher average weight loss (15–21% vs 15%), but individual results vary significantly. Both are once-weekly injections. Your prescriber will recommend the most suitable option based on your health.
How quickly can I expect weight loss with GLP-1 medication?
Weight loss typically becomes noticeable after 4–8 weeks of treatment at a therapeutic dose. The NHS recommends a safe rate of 0.5–1 kg per week. Most people see significant results over 6–12 months. Results vary by individual, medication, dose, and how well you follow dietary and activity guidance alongside treatment.
Can I use smoothies whilst taking weight loss medication?
Yes. Protein-rich, lower-sugar smoothies can fit well into a weight loss plan alongside GLP-1 medication. GLP-1 injections often reduce appetite, so smaller smoothies with whole fruits, Greek yoghurt, and protein powder work well. Avoid high-calorie blended drinks with added sugars or full-fat milk, and track portions. Your GP or dietitian can advise you further.
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.