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UK Government Urges Brits To Lose 5lbs To Save The NHS Money

UK Government Urges Brits To Lose 5lbs To Save The NHS Money

Boris Johnson lost a stone and now thinks the public should shed some weight too

Amelia Ward

Amelia Ward

UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock has advised overweight Brits should lose five pounds in order to save the NHS money.

The government are to set out a strategy for helping with healthy eating and exercise. Measures taken will include ending confectionery displays at checkouts - something which Tesco has done since 2014 - and the banning of junk food adverts on TV before 9pm.

Matt Hancock wrote in The Telegraph: "If everyone who is overweight lost five pounds it could save the NHS over £100 million over the next five years.

"And more importantly, given the link between obesity and coronavirus, losing weight could be lifesaving."

The PM also spoke out on Friday about how he believes his own weight affected his coronavirus diagnosis, suggesting the healthier and fitter of his colleagues fared better because of it.

Speaking to BBC News, he said: "One thing, by the way, that I think did make a difference - for me and for quite a few others - is the issue, frankly, of being overweight.

Boris Johnson says he has 'always struggled with his weight'.
PA

"And that's why we need to tackle our national struggle with obesity."

Some of the other changes due to be brought in included a ban on 'buy one, get one free' promotions on unhealthy snacks in supermarkets. Restaurants will also have to display calorie content for menus, with a consultation set to discuss doing the same for alcohol.

There will also be more focus on NHS weight loss services, with a 12-week weight loss app to be revealed, similar to the classic Couch To 5k running app.

Confectionery at supermarket checkouts could be banned.
PA

The Prime Minister said: "Losing weight is hard but with some small changes we can all feel fitter and healthier.

"If we all do our bit, we can reduce our health risks and protect ourselves against coronavirus - as well as taking pressure off the NHS."

However, one study suggests that putting nutritional information on menus doesn't make much of a difference when it comes to people making healthier choices, and indeed can be damaging to those suffering with eating disorders.

Featured Image Credit: PA