Louise: preparing for an active retirement with Numan’s Weight Loss Programme

Louise (49), wanted to be “fabulous at 50” but hit a roadblock when it came to her weight. With a big holiday to Grenada in the Caribbean on the horizon, she knew she needed a change. 

We spoke to her about how Numan’s Weight Loss Programme has set her up for success. 

Can you tell us about your background and what led you to start the Weight Loss Programme?

I’m a typical busy woman with a husband and two kids. I also work as a teacher. From a weight loss point of view, my biggest thing has always been losing the baby weight from my second child. My youngest is now nearly 18, and this is the first time I’ve lost what feels like my baby weight. I've yo-yoed up and down for years, but this time it feels different. 

How did you find out about Numan and our Weight Loss Programme?

I was looking into Wegovy and read a lot about it. The fact that the NHS now prescribes it for weight loss gave me confidence. My husband also read about other potential benefits in an article, so it seemed promising. 

I didn’t want to go with something I hadn’t heard of. I also had heard of Numan through Facebook and saw that you offered the programme at a reasonable price, which included counselling and app support. That was appealing to me.

Did you try any other methods to lose weight, like changing your diet or exercising?

Yes, I’ve tried many things. Some were too restrictive, leaving me hungry and with low energy levels. I do exercise, like running weekly, and enjoy Pilates and yoga, but it’s always been diet that affects my weight more. I’ve tried other weight loss plans and low-carb diets, which work temporarily but not long-term. 

I had some success with a programme after my first pregnancy. There was some counselling with that, which I found really helpful. They also had group counselling sessions, and that support was essential for me alongside the diet. However, I don't know if the weight would have stayed off since I got pregnant again right after.

One of the things I particularly like about the Numan programme is the online messaging with Amy. She contacts me two or three times a week.

How has the Numan programme been different for you?

The biggest difference has been the medication reducing my appetite and the support from Amy. I now eat smaller portions and feel satisfied. I drink more water, which helps with feeling full. The programme has helped me establish better routines, like having breakfast regularly and eating more balanced meals throughout the day.

Did you have any hesitations about starting?

Only that it was an injection, which made me anxious at first. But after the first couple of times, it became routine. It’s not painful at all. I felt a bit nauseous in the afternoons initially, but drinking plenty of water helped. I haven’t had any side effects since then, even when increasing the dose.

What was your biggest motivation for starting the programme?

We booked a big holiday to Grenada in the Caribbean for next year - I didn’t want to look back at photos and feel unhappy with myself. I knew I needed something to help me lose weight effectively. 

Can you tell us more about your relationship with Amy and how she helps you?

Amy’s prompts help me self-analyse and stay focused on my goals. She encourages me to reflect on my eating habits and make better choices. Her support has been crucial in helping me stay on track. I think having the coaching and the app has been an important part of my success. The regular monitoring and support keep me committed and motivated.

How long did it take for you to start seeing results?

It’s been a gradual process, which is good. I did hit a plateau for about five to six weeks, but I’ve started losing weight again. I’ve been on the programme for about six months and have lost over 6kg.

Have there been any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced?

Initially, I was very strict with myself when I went out. I would just have a salad and water, avoiding a glass of wine with my meal. This led to a sense of missing out. But now, I allow myself to enjoy a couple of glasses of wine and something nice to eat. I might opt for a smaller dish to save a couple of hundred calories, but I don't restrict myself too much when going out. I've realised that one indulgent day isn't going to ruin everything. 

Has your weight impacted your confidence or how you feel about yourself?

Probably a little bit, especially when it came to clothing and how I looked. I didn't really enjoy shopping for clothes and tried to avoid it. I rarely bought new stuff. Now, it's quite a joy to put something on and think, "this fits nicely." I was less confident about my appearance, but now I feel better. 

Looking to the future, do you have any goals for maintaining or improving your health further?

There are a couple of new activities I avoid due to my weight. For example, the kids at school go rock climbing, and there was an opportunity for staff to join in. In the past, I would have said no because I was self-conscious about my appearance. But now, I'd like to try climbing again without worrying about how I look.

I used to do a lot of kayaking, trampolining, and other activities, but I've been less active the older I’ve got. I'm planning to retire in about seven or eight years, hopefully early, and I want to be physically fit to enjoy more exciting activities.

That sounds like a great plan. Is there anything else you’d like to share about the programme?

It’s been really good for me - but I know it’s about changing my lifestyle and maintaining the weight loss long-term rather than a quick fix. The support from Numan, especially from Amy, has been crucial in helping me stay on track and feel more confident. With their help, I'm well on my way to being fabulous at 50.