Simon’s Digital Weight Management Journey

Simon has been attending the NHS Digital Weight Management Programme with Xyla Health & Wellbeing and has seen some amazing changes since starting his journey. He has been happy to share with us some of his experiences and results.

What have you found useful about the Wellbeing Way App?

Whereas most health apps are obsessed with counting calories and telling you to do stuff, this app lets you set your own goals and educates you as to how to achieve what you have set out to do. It gives recipe ideas, modules to give you more knowledge on how to achieve your goals and makes everything easy and clear to understand.

What do you find useful about your coaching calls with your Registered Healthcare Professional? Have you felt supported throughout the process?

The support calls gave me the confidence that I was doing it right and going about things in the right way. Personally, my mobility isn’t the best at times and Sarah supported me and gave me the ghee up when I needed it, letting me know rest is important too.

What changes did you make to your lifestyle, e.g. exercise routine, dietary, habits…?

I have cut out lots of sugary/fatty snacks and replaced them with fruit/nuts/healthy alternatives. I havetried to do daily walks (mobility permitting). I also haven’t been eating quite so much meat and not only has that had a positive effect on my weight, it has also stopped some of my stomach issues (from my arthritis).

Have you accessed any local services (i.e. leisure centres, exercise on referral) due to this programme?

Unfortunately, due to money issues, I can’t really afford to use leisure centres, but I have been making the most of the local parks and walking round them on a daily basis.

What is your favourite part of the programme, why?

The support phone calls. Sarah really bolstered my confidence to keep on even when I was struggling. It was great getting positive feedback and I enjoyed our 15min calls.

What challenges did you face with the programme, and how did you overcome them?

My mobility and fatigue have been my biggest challenges. I invested in some good knee supports so I was able to keep walking and knowing when to rest when the fatigue hit. I always describe my energy levels like a jug of water that must last a week, if I drink it all on the first day, I wouldn’t be able to drink for the rest of the week. So, I have to balance out my energy levels over the week, so the days I do more are offset by the days I can’t do as much.

What changes have you seen in any measurements that have been taken? E.g. HBa1c, waist measurement, weight, clothes size etc…

I was pleasantly surprised that with relatively little effort my weight has gone down. Was really happy that just with some extra walking and minimal change in my diet I managed to lose 4-5kg.

Would you, or have you, recommended the programme to others? Why?

I would definitely recommend the programme to others. I think the education is just as important as the end results, because it gives you the tools to be able to continue sticking to your goals and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

What would you say to those who are thinking about joining the programme?

Trust in the programme and in your own ability to be able to achieve your goals. It guides you on your journey instead of dragging you by the ear.

Are there any other comments you wish to make about your experience?

The programme has really helped me focus on being able to better myself and to stick to my goals. It’s been surprisingly enjoyable.

To find out more about the NHS Digital Weight Management programme, click here.

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