Definitive Guide

Weight Loss: How to Lose Weight Safely and Effectively

If you’re looking to lose weight, you’re not alone. Millions of people start their weight loss journey every year, often unsure where to begin or what really works. This guide is designed to give you a clear, evidence-based overview of how weight loss happens, why it can be so challenging, and which approaches are proven to help.

Whether you’re just getting started or struggling to make progress, you’ll find support, practical advice, and medical insight here.

Diet & Hydration

Exercise & Activity

Medications

Bariatric Surgery

Understanding weight loss: how it works

At its core, weight loss happens when you burn more energy (calories) than you take in. This is known as a calorie deficit.

But it’s not just about numbers. Hormones, genetics, medications, mental health, and even sleep all play a role. That’s why there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for weight. That’s why it’s important to take a holistic, sustainable approach that is designed with you in mind.

If you haven’t had any success with a calorie deficit approach then keep reading for more weight loss techniques that might be better suited to you.

To find out more about a calorie deficit approach to weight loss, check out the video below.

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There are many ways to lose weight, but the following chapters are the key pillars that form the foundation of most successful weight loss plans.

Diet and Hydration

It will come as no surprise that what you eat and drink plays a central role in managing your weight.

  • Focus on whole, minimally processed foods like vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats.
  • Avoid ultra-processed foods high in sugar, refined carbs, and additives.
  • Watch portion sizes and consider tracking your intake for awareness.
  • Stay hydrated – sometimes thirst is mistaken for hunger.
  • Limit sugary drinks and alcohol, which are high in calories but low in nutrition.
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There’s no one perfect diet, but consistency, balance, and creating a sustainable calorie deficit is key. To find out more, visit our Diet hub.

Exercise and Physical Activity

Being active can boost your metabolism, support fat loss, and improve overall health.

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, such as  brisk walking or cycling.

If you can, try to include strength training 2x/week to preserve muscle and improve body composition.

Even small changes help. Taking the stairs, walking after meals, or standing more during the day all count.

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Exercise also improves mood, sleep, and motivation: which are all super helpful for successful weight loss.

Medication

Medical treatments may be recommended for people with a BMI of 30+ (or 27+ with a weight related health condition like type 2 diabetes or PCOS) and who have a history of unsuccessful weight loss attempts

Prescription weight loss medication can help by:

  • Reducing appetite and cravings
  • Improving blood sugar control
  • Helping you feel fuller for longer

These treatments are most effective when combined with healthy lifestyle changes, and they’re available through Medicspot following a free online clinical assessment.

You can also use the calculator below to see how much weight you could lose with the help of medication.

See how much you could lose

Based on the results of a peer-reviewed clinical study of 806 participants.

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Most weight loss medication requires a prescription but some are available over the counter. Explore all weight loss medication here.

Bariatric Surgery

In some cases, surgical treatment may be the best option for people with severe obesity.

  • Procedures like gastric bypass or gastric sleeve surgery alter the digestive system to:
  • Reduce the amount of food you can eat.
  • Change how your body absorbs calories.

Surgery is typically considered for patients with:

  • A BMI of 40+, or 35+ with related health conditions.
  • Repeated unsuccessful weight loss attempts.

 

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Although it can be highly effective, bariatric surgery also carries risks, and requires lifelong lifestyle changes and follow-up care. Find out more here.

Common weight loss challenges

Weight Loss FAQ's

When (and how) to get help with weight loss

If you’ve tried to lose weight without success, or if food, cravings, or energy levels are affecting your quality of life it may be time to speak to a doctor.

Getting medical support doesn’t mean you’ve failed, it’s a sign you’re ready to succeed. At Medicspot, our team can help you by:

  • Understanding your health and weight loss options
  • Prescribing safe and effective medications if appropriate
  • Offering guidance and follow-up support

 

Check if you are eligible

Say goodbye to yo-yo diets. Say hello to sustainable weight loss.