Secret slimmers: more than half of dieters have tried to lose weight 'in secret' – over fears of being judged or failing, reveals UK survey

New research, led by the UK's largest weight-loss organisation Slimming World, has revealed over half (57%) of slimmer's have dieted 'in secret' – many because of fears of being judged or failing.

The study of 2,000 adults who are trying to slim down found that even of those who are open about losing weight, 83% have embarked on a weight loss attempt on their own.

Dr Jacquie Lavin, Special Advisor on the Science of Weight Management at Slimming World, said: "Worries about our weight and the decision to start a weight loss journey can feel deeply personal, so it's natural to think that a private approach might be best. And for lots of people the idea of admitting you need help or joining a group can be daunting. Losing weight isn't easy, though, and going it alone is especially hard. Slimming World members say that it's the shared motivation, plus feeling valued, cared for and understood, which act as a powerful and positive incentive to lose weight, and to keep going if you're struggling. This is often missing from weight loss attempts that we embark on alone and it's what makes joining a Slimming World group so effective.

"Making the decision to lose weight and improve your health is a positive step and absolutely not something people should ever feel embarrassed about. These findings show people should embrace the encouragement and support of losing weight with others, even if that means stepping out of their comfort zones. They'll be sure of a warm welcome at a Slimming World group.

"The power of the peer support members give one another is what sets Slimming World apart. Members become part of a community, which helps them to realise that they're not alone in the challenges they face. That's combined with a personalised approach which helps every member discover more about themselves as a slimmer, identify their own pitfalls and danger zones, and create plans to overcome them. As well as following the healthy eating plan which enables you to still eat the foods you love and become more active at your own pace, members are encouraged to dig deep into what motivates them, and to set realistic weekly goals to help them achieve their weight loss targets. 

"The accountability of attending a weekly group is also key. In this survey, 90% of these members said the private weekly weigh-in was a key factor in helping them lose weight successfully, while for 81% it's the eating plan and for 73% it's the support from other members

If you want support you will find your local slimming World group at Hadleigh Town hall with Kate who can be contacted on 07535650168