How does Slimming World work?
Slimming World is a weight loss programme that focuses on healthy eating and lifestyle changes. It operates on the principle of food optimisation, where participants are encouraged to make healthier food choices while still enjoying a wide variety of foods.
Here’s a general overview of how Slimming World works:
- Food Optimisation: Slimming World uses a system called “Food Optimising” to guide participants in making healthier food choices. The programme categorises foods into three groups: Free Foods, Healthy Extras, and Syns.
- Free Foods: These are low-calorie, nutritious foods that you can eat freely without counting or weighing them. Examples include fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, eggs, pasta, rice, potatoes, and more. These foods form the foundation of your meals.
- Healthy Extras: These foods provide essential nutrients and are measured in controlled amounts. They include dairy products (like milk and cheese) and whole grains (like bread and cereal). The quantities vary depending on your individual needs.
- Syns: These are foods that are higher in calories or less nutritious. They are assigned a “Syn” value, and participants are allocated a certain number of Syns per day to use on these foods. It allows for flexibility and treats without completely eliminating them from your diet.
- Food Optimising Plan: Slimming World provides a range of resources and support to help you plan and track your meals. They have a list of Free Foods and Healthy Extras to choose from, along with recipes and meal ideas. The aim is to create balanced and satisfying meals while controlling portion sizes.
- Group Support: Slimming World offers group support meetings where members can come together to share their experiences, get advice, and receive guidance from a trained consultant. These meetings are supportive and non-judgemental, fostering a sense of community and accountability.
- Activity: While not the primary focus, Slimming World also encourages regular physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle. They promote finding activities that you enjoy and can incorporate into your routine.
