Call for Weight Watchers on NHS to boost fat fight

A major study conducted in the UK, Germany and Australia showed that a year-long Weight Watchers programme was far more beneficial than helpful doctor’s advice.

Obese and overweight patients referred to the programme lost twice as much weight as those offered “standard care”. Experts say the results support the idea of health services providing publicly-funded commercial slimming programmes.

However, the cost effectiveness of the courses still needs to be assessed.

Commercial weight loss schemes are already offered to many NHS patients, usually lasting around 12 weeks.

They have been criticised by some as being “quick fix” solutions with little long-lasting benefit.