How much have you lost or gained during lockdown?

Posted on May 27, 2020 by Sally-Anne Turner

Our research has revealed that weight gain has been one of the country's biggest worries since lockdown measures were introduced to combat coronavirus. The unprecedented nature of the pandemic, combined with stay-at-home orders, disrupted routines, and heightened anxiety levels, created a perfect storm for weight management challenges across the United Kingdom. As people found themselves confined to their homes, often with limited access to their usual exercise routines, social activities, and structured daily schedules, the impact on physical health became increasingly apparent.

We surveyed over 2,000 UK adults (including many of our customers) and found that putting on weight/overeating was cited by 38% of respondents as their main concern (aside from catching coronavirus). It was by far the most popular answer, ranking higher than money (11%), not seeing family or friends (11%) and mental health (9%). This striking statistic reveals that for more than a third of the population, concerns about their physical health and weight management were at the forefront of their minds during one of the most challenging periods in recent history. The fact that weight concerns outpaced even financial worries demonstrates just how significantly the lockdown experience affected people's relationship with food and their bodies.

Yet despite these concerns, 75% said they'd been eating more because of the stress of the current situation and 74% admitted to having put on weight. This creates a troubling paradox: people were worried about gaining weight, yet the circumstances of lockdown made it incredibly difficult to maintain healthy eating habits. The stress of uncertainty, the disruption to normal routines, the constant proximity to kitchen cupboards whilst working from home, and the emotional toll of isolation all contributed to increased food consumption. Our survey also found that on average, people in the UK have put on nearly half a stone (6lb) since March, when lockdown measures were announced by the UK government. This represents a significant shift in the nation's collective health profile in a relatively short period of time.

Regional Variations in Lockdown Weight Gain

In Birkenhead, 22% of respondents said they had put on more than a stone, with an average weight gain of 7 lbs. The Birkenhead area, which is home to one of our Bodyline clinics, showed particularly high levels of weight gain, suggesting that local factors such as access to outdoor spaces, socioeconomic conditions, and community support networks may have played a role in how different areas coped with lockdown restrictions. St Helens and Stoke residents also had an average weight gain of 7 lbs, indicating that certain regions across the Northwest and Midlands experienced similar challenges in maintaining their weight during this difficult period.

Crosby, Warrington and Stockport residents gained an average of 6 lbs, with 10% of Crosby gaining over a stone since lockdown began in March. These areas, whilst still showing significant weight gain, fared slightly better than some neighbouring regions. The variation between different locations highlights how individual circumstances, local amenities, and community resources can influence health outcomes during times of crisis. Warrington, home to another of our clinic locations, demonstrated the typical national pattern of weight gain, with residents facing the same challenges of disrupted routines and stress-related eating that affected the entire country.

In Shotton and Wilmslow, the average weight gain was 5 lbs, with 10% of Shotton residents putting on over a stone since the beginning of isolation. Whilst these areas showed slightly lower average weight gains compared to other regions we surveyed, the fact that one in ten people still gained over a stone demonstrates that no community was immune to the weight management challenges posed by lockdown. The differences between regions may reflect varying levels of access to green spaces for exercise, different housing situations affecting activity levels, and diverse socioeconomic factors that influenced both stress levels and food choices during this period.

Understanding the Psychology Behind Lockdown Eating

Factors behind the huge number of us overeating included boredom (55%) and stress/anxiety (23%). The boredom factor cannot be understated – with entertainment options severely limited, social activities cancelled, and many people furloughed or working reduced hours, food became one of the few readily available sources of pleasure and distraction. The act of cooking, eating, and trying new recipes provided structure to otherwise monotonous days and offered a sense of control when so much felt uncertain. For many people, the kitchen became the centre of daily life, and the boundaries between mealtimes blurred as snacking became an almost constant activity.

The stress and anxiety component reveals another dimension to lockdown weight gain. Food has long been recognised as a coping mechanism for emotional distress, and the pandemic provided unprecedented levels of anxiety for most people. Worries about health, job security, family members, and the unknown future created a constant background of stress that many people unconsciously tried to soothe through eating. Comfort foods, often high in sugar, fat, and calories, provided temporary relief from these difficult emotions, creating a cycle where stress led to eating, which then led to guilt and further stress about weight gain.

Beyond boredom and stress, other factors contributed to lockdown weight gain. The disruption to normal sleep patterns affected hunger hormones, making people feel hungrier throughout the day. The lack of social accountability – no longer needing to dress for work or see colleagues daily – meant that weight gain could happen more gradually without the usual social cues that might prompt action. Working from home placed people in constant proximity to their kitchens, making it far too easy to graze throughout the day. The closure of gyms, swimming pools, and sports facilities removed important outlets for physical activity, whilst anxiety about going outside reduced even simple activities like walking.

The Obesity and COVID-19 Connection

Being overweight has now been identified by scientists as a risk factor for developing more severe symptoms with coronavirus. According to the health survey for England, 28.7% of the UK population is classed as obese, with a further 35.6% being overweight but not obese. This means that nearly two-thirds of the UK population fall into weight categories that may increase their vulnerability to severe COVID-19 outcomes. The scientific evidence linking obesity to worse coronavirus outcomes became increasingly clear as the pandemic progressed, with studies showing that people with higher body mass indexes were more likely to require hospitalisation, intensive care treatment, and mechanical ventilation if they contracted the virus.

The mechanisms behind this increased risk are complex and multifaceted. Excess weight can impair immune function, making it harder for the body to fight off infections effectively. Obesity is associated with chronic low-level inflammation throughout the body, which may exacerbate the inflammatory response triggered by COVID-19. Carrying extra weight can also compromise lung function and make breathing more difficult, which becomes particularly problematic when dealing with a respiratory virus. Additionally, obesity is often accompanied by other health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease, all of which further increase the risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes.

This scientific evidence added another layer of anxiety for many people during lockdown. Those who were already concerned about their weight now had an additional, potentially life-threatening reason to worry. Yet paradoxically, the very circumstances that made weight loss more urgent also made it more difficult to achieve. This created a challenging situation where people felt trapped between their concerns about their health and their inability to control their eating in the stressful lockdown environment.

Bodyline's Response to the Crisis

Sally-Ann Turner, Bodyline's managing director, said, "The results of this survey confirm our belief that health and wellbeing are top priorities for most people at the moment, especially as scientists are finding more links between obesity and the most severe COVID-19 symptoms. As weight gain and overall health are obviously real worries for large sections of society, I was to stress that the team and I have over 17 years' experience of helping thousands of people achieve their weight-loss goals and lead healthier lives."

"Many of our clients have a very difficult relationship with food. They come to us having tried many other pathways to losing weight, all of which have failed. As they've started making headway with their weight loss (some for the first time in their lives), they were then forced into lockdown, so it's understandable why so many of them are worried about being set back." This concern was particularly acute for clients who had been making excellent progress with their medical weight loss programmes before the pandemic struck. For many of these individuals, their success with Bodyline represented a breakthrough after years or even decades of unsuccessful attempts to lose weight through other methods. The prospect of losing that hard-won progress was deeply distressing.

The psychological impact of lockdown on people with weight management challenges cannot be overstated. For individuals who had been working with our clinical team to develop healthier relationships with food, address emotional eating patterns, and establish sustainable lifestyle changes, the sudden disruption of lockdown threatened to undo months of careful work. The removal of their regular clinic appointments, the loss of face-to-face support from our nurses, and the return to an environment where old habits could easily resurface created a perfect storm for relapse.

Adapting Services for a New Reality

Throughout the coronavirus crisis Bodyline has very quickly adapted its services to launch a brand-new Bodyline Flex and Bodyline Home programmes, so we can continue to provide services via remote consultations and a direct to the door delivery service of our range of medications. This rapid adaptation was crucial in ensuring that our existing clients could continue their treatment without interruption and that new clients who needed support during this challenging time could access our services safely from home.

The Bodyline Flex programme was designed specifically to meet the needs of clients during lockdown and beyond. This innovative service combines the expertise and personalised care that Bodyline is known for with the convenience and safety of remote consultations. Clients can have video or telephone appointments with our experienced nurses, receive the same thorough assessment and ongoing monitoring that they would in clinic, and have their prescribed medications delivered directly to their door. This means that geographical location is no longer a barrier to accessing specialist weight loss support, and clients across the entire UK can benefit from our services.

The Bodyline Home programme took this concept even further, providing a comprehensive at-home weight loss solution that includes everything clients need to succeed. From the initial consultation through to ongoing support and prescription renewals, every aspect of the service was redesigned to work seamlessly in a remote format. Our clinical team developed new protocols for conducting thorough assessments via video call, ensuring that we could maintain our high standards of care even when we couldn't see clients face-to-face. We invested in secure technology platforms that protected client confidentiality whilst enabling effective communication between clients and their dedicated nurses.

These new programmes also incorporated additional support resources to help clients navigate the unique challenges of losing weight during lockdown. We developed new guidance on managing stress eating, staying active at home, and maintaining motivation when normal routines had been disrupted. Our nurses provided practical advice on meal planning when supermarket shelves were empty, finding ways to exercise in small spaces, and coping with the emotional challenges of isolation. This holistic approach recognised that successful weight loss during such an unprecedented time required more than just medication – it required comprehensive support that addressed all aspects of clients' lives.

The Importance of Medical Supervision in Weight Loss

Sally-Ann ended: "We've worked hard to adapt and also create a new programme to keep our services accessible to existing customers during the outbreak. As a result of this we're hoping to reach a lot more people in the future as lockdown measures are eased." The development of these remote services not only helped our existing clients but also opened up new possibilities for reaching people who might not have been able to access our clinics previously due to distance, mobility issues, or time constraints.

In addition to being the one of the UK's leading prescription weight loss company, Bodyline is also CQC regulated, recognising our absolute dedication to client safety. This regulation by the Care Quality Commission sets us apart from many other weight loss services and provides crucial reassurance to clients that they are receiving care that meets the highest standards. CQC regulation means that our clinics and services are regularly inspected and must meet stringent requirements around clinical governance, staff qualifications, safety protocols, and quality of care. This level of oversight is particularly important when dealing with prescription medications for weight loss, as these treatments require proper medical assessment, ongoing monitoring, and expert clinical judgment.

Our status as a CQC-regulated provider means that every client receives a thorough medical assessment before starting treatment. Our nurses review medical history, current medications, and any health conditions that might affect treatment decisions. Blood pressure is checked, and we assess whether prescription weight loss medication is appropriate and safe for each individual. This careful screening process ensures that we only prescribe treatments that are suitable and that we can identify any potential risks before they become problems. Throughout treatment, clients receive regular monitoring to track their progress, manage any side effects, and adjust their treatment plan as needed.

The importance of this medical supervision became even more apparent during the pandemic. With people spending more time at home and potentially experiencing higher levels of stress and anxiety, having professional support from qualified healthcare practitioners was invaluable. Our nurses were able to help clients distinguish between normal side effects of medication and symptoms that might require medical attention, provide advice on managing health conditions whilst losing weight, and offer reassurance during an uncertain time. This level of care simply isn't available from over-the-counter weight loss products or unregulated online services, highlighting the value of choosing a properly regulated provider like Bodyline.

Looking Forward: Lessons from Lockdown

Following the guidance of the government, we have re-opened our doors across eight sites (excluding Shotton) and will operate by appointment only. Customers are encouraged to use the Bodyline Flex and Bodyline Home treatment plans with remote prescription options. This hybrid approach, combining the option of in-person appointments for those who prefer them with the convenience of remote services for others, represents the future of healthcare delivery. The pandemic accelerated changes that were already beginning to happen in healthcare, demonstrating that many services can be delivered effectively remotely whilst maintaining high standards of care.

The experience of lockdown has taught us important lessons about weight management and healthcare delivery. We've learned that flexibility is crucial – people need services that can adapt to their changing circumstances rather than rigid programmes that only work under perfect conditions. We've discovered that remote support can be just as effective as face-to-face appointments when delivered properly, opening up new possibilities for reaching people who might otherwise struggle to access care. We've seen that people are capable of remarkable resilience and can succeed with their weight loss goals even in the most challenging circumstances when they have the right support.

For individuals who gained weight during lockdown, it's important to approach the situation with compassion rather than judgment. Weight gain during such an unprecedented time was a normal response to abnormal circumstances. The key now is to move forward without guilt or shame, recognising that sustainable weight loss is a journey that may include setbacks. What matters is having the support and tools to get back on track. Our range of treatment options can help address the weight gained during lockdown whilst also building the skills and habits needed to maintain a healthy weight long-term.

The Role of Prescription Weight Loss Medication

For many people who struggled with weight gain during lockdown, prescription weight loss medication can provide crucial support in getting back to a healthy weight. Medications like Phentermine work as appetite suppressants, helping to reduce hunger and control cravings. This can be particularly valuable for people who developed patterns of stress eating or emotional eating during lockdown, as the medication helps to break the cycle of constant food thoughts and cravings that make it so difficult to stick to a healthy eating plan.

Other treatment options include medications that work through different mechanisms to support weight loss. The key is finding the right treatment for each individual's circumstances, taking into account their medical history, lifestyle, and weight loss goals. This is where the expertise of our clinical team becomes invaluable. Our nurses have extensive experience in matching clients with the most appropriate treatment and providing the guidance needed to use these medications safely and effectively. They can explain how each medication works, what to expect in terms of results and potential side effects, and how to integrate the treatment into a comprehensive weight loss plan.

It's important to understand that prescription weight loss medication is not a standalone solution. These treatments work best when combined with healthy eating, regular physical activity, and behavioural changes that address the underlying factors contributing to weight gain. At Bodyline, we provide comprehensive support that goes beyond just prescribing medication. Our nurses offer nutritional guidance, advice on increasing physical activity, strategies for managing stress and emotional eating, and ongoing motivation to help clients stay on track. This holistic approach recognises that successful, sustainable weight loss requires addressing all aspects of health and lifestyle.

Moving Forward After Lockdown

As society continues to adapt to life after lockdown, many people are reassessing their health priorities and looking for effective ways to address the weight they gained during this challenging period. The good news is that with the right support and treatment, it is entirely possible to lose the lockdown weight and establish healthier habits that will last long-term. The experience of the pandemic has highlighted the importance of maintaining good health and the impact that excess weight can have on overall wellbeing and disease risk.

For those considering starting a weight loss programme, there has never been a better time to take action. The flexibility of our remote services means that you can access expert support from the comfort of your home, fitting appointments around your schedule without the need to travel to a clinic. Whether you're looking to lose the half stone gained during lockdown or you have a larger amount of weight to lose, our experienced team can develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs and circumstances.

Book a no-obligation consultation at Bodyline Clinic to discuss how our medical weight loss programmes can help you achieve your health goals. During your consultation, one of our qualified nurses will take the time to understand your weight loss history, discuss your concerns and goals, and explain which treatment options might be most suitable for you. There's no obligation to proceed with treatment after the consultation – it's simply an opportunity to gather information and make an informed decision about your health.

Why Choose Bodyline for Your Weight Loss Journey

With over 17 years of experience in medical weight loss, Bodyline has helped thousands of people across the UK achieve their weight loss goals and improve their health. Our success is built on a combination of clinical expertise, personalised care, and comprehensive support that addresses all aspects of weight management. Unlike commercial slimming clubs or fad diets that offer one-size-fits-all approaches, we recognise that every person's weight loss journey is unique and requires an individualised treatment plan.

Our team of experienced nurses brings a wealth of knowledge and understanding to every client interaction. They've seen firsthand what works and what doesn't when it comes to sustainable weight loss, and they use this experience to guide clients towards success. They understand the challenges people face – the emotional aspects of weight loss, the practical difficulties of changing long-standing habits, the frustration of slow progress, and the fear of regaining weight. This understanding, combined with their clinical expertise, enables them to provide support that is both medically sound and emotionally supportive.

As a CQC-regulated provider, we maintain the highest standards of clinical care and safety. Every aspect of our service, from the initial consultation through to ongoing monitoring and support, is designed with client safety and wellbeing as the top priority. We use only licensed medications that have been proven safe and effective, and we ensure that every client receives thorough medical assessment before starting treatment. Our nurses are trained to identify any potential risks or contraindications and to provide appropriate advice and monitoring throughout treatment.

Find out more here or call 0845 491 8750 to speak to a member of our friendly team. They can answer any questions you have about our services, explain how the treatment process works, and help you book your initial consultation. Taking that first step towards addressing your weight can feel daunting, but our team is here to make the process as straightforward and supportive as possible. Whether you gained a few pounds during lockdown or you've been struggling with your weight for years, we're here to help you achieve lasting change and improve your health for the long term.

The challenges of lockdown may have led to weight gain for many people, but they also provided an opportunity to reassess priorities and recognise the importance of maintaining good health. As we move forward, the lessons learned during this difficult period can inform a more thoughtful, sustainable approach to weight management. With the right support, professional guidance, and evidence-based treatment, it's entirely possible to not only lose the weight gained during lockdown but to establish healthier patterns that will support long-term wellbeing. The team at Bodyline is ready to support you on this journey, combining clinical expertise with compassionate care to help you achieve your health goals and feel confident in your body once again.