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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High Protein Eating Plans for Weight Loss in the UK
A high protein eating plan can be an effective approach to weight management in the UK, helping you feel fuller for longer and preserve muscle mass during weight loss. While dietary changes are important, many eligible adults can combine this approach with prescription weight loss medication such as Mounjaro or Wegovy, alongside support from the NHS or private weight management services. This guide explains how protein-focused eating works, who may qualify for medication support, and how to discuss your weight loss goals with 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.
How High Protein Eating Supports Weight Loss
A high protein eating plan helps weight loss in several evidence-based ways. Protein increases satiety, meaning you feel fuller for longer after eating, which naturally reduces overall calorie intake. It also has a higher thermic effect than carbohydrates or fat — your body uses more energy to digest protein, slightly boosting calorie burn. Additionally, protein helps preserve muscle mass during weight loss, which is important because muscle supports your metabolism.
The NHS recommends a balanced approach: include lean proteins like chicken, fish, eggs, lentils, and beans at each meal. Aim for approximately 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily if actively losing weight. Combine this with reduced overall calorie intake — typically a 500 kcal daily deficit supports steady loss of approximately 0.5 kg per week. However, sustainable weight loss also requires increased physical activity and behavioural changes. You can use our free BMI calculator to check your starting point, then track progress over time with our progress tracker.
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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.
Prescription Weight Loss Medication Available in the UK
For eligible adults, prescription weight loss medication can support dietary changes like high protein eating. Three medications are currently licensed for weight management in the UK: Mounjaro (tirzepatide), Wegovy (semaglutide), and Saxenda (liraglutide). These GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist medications may help reduce appetite and food cravings, making it easier to stick to your eating plan.
Eligibility typically requires a BMI of 30 or above, or 27 or above with weight-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. Access in the UK is available through NHS specialist weight management services or private online prescribing following a clinical assessment. Our GLP-1 weight loss calculator can help you estimate potential results when combining medication with 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.
Can I combine high protein eating with weight loss injections like Mounjaro?
Yes. High protein eating plans work well alongside GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy. The medication helps reduce appetite, making it easier to maintain your protein-focused eating plan. Always combine medication with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for best results. Your prescriber will provide specific dietary guidance.
How much protein should I eat daily for weight loss?
For active weight loss, aim for approximately 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily. This varies based on your activity level, age, and muscle mass. Your GP or a registered dietitian can recommend a personalised amount. Our BMI calculator and progress tracker can help you monitor whether your approach is working for you.
Is the NHS high protein diet for weight loss the same everywhere in the UK?
No. The NHS offers tiered weight management support that varies by region. Tier 1 includes self-help and digital tools. Tier 2 offers primary care interventions. Tier 3 provides specialist multidisciplinary services where medication may be prescribed. Availability and specific dietary recommendations differ by local area. Ask your GP about what's available in your region.
How do I find out if I'm eligible for prescription weight loss medication in the UK?
Start by speaking with your GP about your weight loss goals and health. Your GP can assess your BMI and any weight-related health conditions, and either prescribe medication through the NHS (if available in your area) or refer you to a private prescriber. You can check your BMI instantly using our free BMI calculator to have this conversation.
What's the difference between NHS and private weight loss medication access?
NHS access is through specialist tier 3 services with a GP referral, though availability and waiting times vary significantly by region. Private access is available through GPhC-registered online pharmacies following an online clinical assessment, without needing a referral. Both require a prescription from a UK-licensed prescriber. Your GP can advise which route is suitable 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.