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If you have a question about Slimming World or Food Optimising, you may find a speedy answer by using our searchable FAQ's. Use the drop down box below to select a category or type a keyword in the search box. (You will need to type in full words.) Please note: we’re unable to respond to any queries that are answered within our FAQ section.
A: It's the most incredibly user-friendly system of slimming ever. With Food Optimising, you lose weight without hunger and without the obsessive need to note every food you eat. 
A: Yes you can. You'll probably find that you'll eat it less of it in time and quite soon you'll find you don't actually want it as much as you used to, but eating for wellness and well-being means being able to have a bit of what you fancy. 
Q: Are there any recipe books available? A: Yes. Slimming World published an extensive range of recipe books. They are all available in groups from your Slimming World Consultant.
Q: Can my children Food Optimise too? A: While it's fine for children aged five and over to eat the same healthy meals as you do while Food Optimising, younger children, especially under-twos, should not have reduced fat dairy foods: Give them full-fat yogurts, spreads, milk and fromage frais. As children's stomachs are quite small, too much high fibre food may fill them up without providing all the nutrients they need, so don't give them high-bran cereals, crispbreads etc. As with adults, depriving children of favourite treats like crisps and sweets can be counter-productive. But try to avoid giving sugary, salty or fatty snacks every day and always have lots of healthy alternatives to offer.
Q: Where can I buy Slimming World magazine? A: If you are a member you can purchase Slimming World magazine from your Consultant at a discount. Otherwise it is available from your newsagent (ask them to order you a copy if they don't already have a copy in stock) or take out a subscription via our free Credit Card Hotline: 0800 131 3150 (9am-5.30pm Mon-Fri)
Q: Where is my nearest Slimming World group? A: Tell us your postcode a list of your nearest groups will appear on your screen. EITHER click here to send us your postcode online and we'll email you back straightaway with details, OR telephone: 0844 897 8000 [calls charged at national rate].
Q: Do I have to exercise to lose weight successfully? A: We encourage you to combine healthy eating with an active lifestyle. Being active can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure as well as help protect against osteoporosis and diabetes. It can have positive effects on mood, self-esteem, stress and anxiety levels, and improve sleep, energy levels and general fitness. However, Food Optimising doesn’t rely on you sweating every evening at the gym or training for the marathon from day 1! Food Optimising properly without exercise will result in a weight loss – we guarantee it! Food Optimising with exercise will bring even greater results. For further information, have a browse through our Body Magic section
Q: I’m still hungry. Can you help? A: It can be difficult getting over that ‘diet’ feeling (Dare I Eat That?), but trust in the power of Food Optimising. Be encouraged to eat, eat, eat until you’re full and completely satisfied. There really is no need to go hungry with Food Optimising because of the huge range of completely Free and unlimited foods that are available. When you next go shopping, plan in advance and make sure you stock your cupboards with plenty of Free Foods, fill up your fruit bowl with your favourites and perhaps some new Free fruit (don’t forget, bananas and grapes are Free and great for nibbling on!), and pile your plate high at meal times. If a recipe is Free but says it serves 4, don’t feel restricted by that. If you want to eat the whole pan of chilli, dish of pasta or two steaks instead of one – feel free!
A: At Slimming World we recognise that to lose weight healthily and comfortably, and to sustain that weight loss, slimmers need and want to eat lots of 'real' food, not diet food! A plate of food when you are Food Optimising will certainly be full - as full as you like - but it is what it is filled with that will help you lose pounds, not pile them on.
A: As well as all the Free Foods, every day we ask you to choose measured portions of 'Healthy Extras' - more long lists of foods that boost your fibre, vitamins and minerals, especially calcium. These can include wholemeal bread, high-fibre breakfast cereals, soups, and dairy products, and again you'll find there are a wide variety of foods to choose.
A: Syns are Slimming World's effective alternative to calorie or fat counting, designed to make sure you can enjoy your favourite treats every day, from chocolate and cake to ice cream and alcohol. All food that isn't Free has a Syn value - you simply choose how to spend your Syn allowance each day.
Q: Does Slimming World run groups outside the UK? A: Slimming World have groups throughout the UK, in the Republic of Ireland and now in Dallas, Texas. We don't currently have groups outside these areas as we would not be able to train, monitor and support Managers and Consultants to the degree necessary to give our members the service they deserve. We would therefore be jeopardising Slimming World's excellent reputation of which we are so proud.
Q: How much does it cost to attend group in the Republic of Ireland? A: Just €9.00 to join and €9.00 weekly – a total of just €18.00 to pay on your first night! Keep an eye on the website home page for information about our super special offers. They alternate between LESS THAN HALF PRICE MEMBERSHIP (a super saving of €10) and BECOME A MEMBER AND GET YOUR FIRST WEEK FREE (a saving of €9.00!)
Q: How do I find the Syn value of food? A: There are several ways to find out Syn values.
Q: I have diabetes. Can I still Food Optimise? A: Yes. Food Optimising provides a healthy, balanced diet. Diabetes UK suggests that people with diabetes follow the same healthy, balanced diet recommended for the population as a whole. In general it is recommended that people with diabetes base meals and snacks around plenty of starchy foods. This is easily achieved when Food Optimising.
Q: Do I have to eat all my Healthy Extras every day? A: It won't affect your weight loss if you don't take all your Healthy Extra choices. However, the Healthy Extra section is there to ensure a balanced diet, so from a health point of view we recommend that you enjoy all your Healthy Extras each day.
Q: Can I really eat as much Free Food as I want? A: Yes, you really can! The stroke of genius behind Food Optimising is its concept of completely unrestricted 'Free Foods'. With Food Optimising your appetite becomes your limit - rather than the number of points/calories you're 'allowed' with other, restrictive plans.
Q: Do your websites provide a message board or forum for members? A: We have researched the use of forums and message boards on a variety of websites (slimming and otherwise) in depth over the last several years. Although many of the messages posted are generally supportive, the misuse of these boards is sadly evident. Some of this is done completely out of awareness – e.g. helpful hints about Food Optimising, if the basic information is incorrect, can send a member way off track; reading comments intended to be supportive can be interpreted very differently, especially if our self-esteem is already low.
Q: The sample menus are too filling. Do I have to eat everything suggested? A: Not at all, no. If you become full, whether you’re enjoying a delicious Food Optimising recipe or a nutritious sample menu, feel free to stop eating.
A: No, the benefits of exercise are even greater as we get older. Activity can be enjoyable and beneficial for people of all ages. It can help us feel younger and fitter.
Q: There is no group near me. Is there a diet I can follow at home? A: At the heart of Slimming World's success is the warm and friendly atmosphere of our groups and the support of our caring Consultants. Joining a weekly support group is the very best way to lose weight - in the company of a group who can help and support you.
A: Just £4.95 per week, plus £10 to join. Keep an eye on the website home page for information about our super special offers. They alternate between HALF PRICE MEMBERSHIP (a super saving of £5) and BECOME A MEMBER AND GET YOUR FIRST WEEK FREE (a saving of £4.95!)
Q: How much does the magazine cost? A: The magazine is priced £2.65 per issue (€4.02 in the Republic of Ireland), and group members get a discount when they buy the magazine from their Consultant. If you live in the UK a subscription costs £15.00 for seven issues per year. Eire and Europe £24.10, Overseas £36.05.
A: Children aged 11-15 can join for free if they are accompanied by a parent/guardian. As well as our member books, our young members receive specially written books to help them make positive lifestyle changes, with the support of their family and with GP recommendations as guidelines for their progress.
Q: Do you do a recipe book that caters for one person? A: Most of our recipes are for four people. You could divide the ingredients, or freeze extra portions. We don't emphasise portion control - simply have as much of each dish as you like. We want you to feel comfortable with our healthy eating system for the rest of your life. Because all our recipes are either very low in Syns or Free, you can have as much as you want without feeling restricted by someone else's idea of how big your portion should be.
A: Indeed you can. It's the same reason as why it's OK to eat chocolate.
Q: Will Food Optimising suit me? A: Only if you're human! Seriously though, we've tried to think of who it wouldn't suit and it just doesn't compute. That's because it's like asking 'Will eating suit me?'
A: Food Optimising is as simple and easy to follow as it is to use. Beneath this simplicity and ease of use is an extremely sophisticated and well researched system that, quite literally, optimises food usage for the slimmer.
A: We suggest menus, although you don't have to follow them! You'll find a sample 7-day menu here. You can Food Optimise using your own menus or use ours.
Q: Do I have to cook separate meals for myself while I'm slimming? A: No, the whole family can benefit! Meals based on rice, pasta, potatoes, or lean meat and fish, with plenty of fruit and veg, are great for everyone's health. It's fine for children aged five and over to eat the same healthy meals as you do. Slimming World magazine is packed with great recipe ideas every issue and Slimming World's website also features dozens of delicious recipes and food ideas that are perfect for everyone.
Q: I've lost weight and would love to share my success, how can I be included in a magazine feature? A: We're always pleased to hear from people who've lost weight by Food Optimising. If you'd like the chance to inspire others with your success, please complete the "Tell us your Slimming Success Story!" page, available in every issue of Slimming World magazine.
Q: Do you do exercise in the group? A: No, however we encourage you to combine healthy eating with an active lifestyle. Being active can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure as well as help protect against osteoporosis and diabetes. It can have positive effects on mood, self-esteem, stress and anxiety levels, and improve sleep, energy levels and general fitness. However, Food Optimising doesn’t rely on you sweating every evening at the gym or training for the marathon from day 1! Food Optimising properly without exercise will result in a weight loss – we guarantee it! Food Optimising with exercise will bring even greater results.
Q: I’m a target member but don’t go to a group. How do I get the password? A: While you're at target (or 3lbs either side), and your Consultant knows this, they may provide the password. Please contact your Consultant to agree a mutually convenient method of receiving the password, for example via text or email.
Q: I have asthma. Should I still exercise? A: The combination of activity and Food Optimising leading to weight loss can help improve asthma and reduce the need for medication.
Q: Is it OK to eat several small meals during the day rather than a large breakfast, dinner and lunch? A: Of course. Food Optimising is a wonderfully healthy and nutritious way of eating that can fit in with your lifestyle. If you prefer to eat several small meals, enjoy them. Filling up on Free Food whenever you’re hungry is a great way to keep on track for a great weight loss next week.
A: The best place to find out more about Food Optimising's Free Food is one of our warm, friendly groups. As part of your membership you will receive a Food Optimising book which lists hundreds of Free unbranded foods. Best of all, these are normal, everyday foods that you'll love, your family will love and your pocket will love too!
Q: When following Green or Original should I have one or two Healthy Extra ‘a’ choices each day? A: It’s totally up to you. If you feel that you’re eating plenty of Free Foods rich in calcium e.g. low fat cottage cheese, low fat fromage frais, then one ‘a’ choice will be enough to keep you healthy. If you’re not having many calcium rich foods at all e.g. you take your tea or coffee black, you don’t have many calcium rich free foods, then go for two - it certainly won’t damage your weight loss.
Q: I have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Is Slimming World’s Food Optimising suitable for me? A: Yes, Food Optimising is ideal for women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. We have discussed PCOS with medical and dietetic experts who inform us that, in general, it is recommended that people with PCOS follow the same sort of healthy diet and lifestyle changes recommended to the population as a whole. That is to limit fat (especially saturated fat), sugar and salt intake, and include plenty of fruit, vegetables and starchy carbohydrate food. Weight loss can certainly be of real benefit. Food Optimising is based on these current healthy eating guidelines, and is an ideal way to eat a balanced diet, lose weight and maintain your new weight long term.
Q: How do I know how many Syns to have? A: For steady weight loss most people enjoy around 10 to 15 Syns a day, though this varies with height, weight and lifestyle. Your Consultant will help you decide your individual Syn allowance.
A: Treatment with thyroxine helps correct a slow metabolic rate and prevent further weight gain. Although thyroxine treatment will not induce any weight loss by itself, once treatment has started just Food Optimise as normal and you'll soon see the weight coming off.
A: Absolutely! To stick to Food Optimising 100%, it’s worth keeping a stock of Free Foods handy to snack on – it certainly makes the vending machine less appealing if you have your favourite Free Foods to hand! And if you like to snack on food that isn’t Free, keep track of your Healthy Extras and Syns or try to find Free alternatives.
Q: I still can’t log on even after trying all your log on solutions, what do I do now? A: If you have tried all our solutions and are still having problems accessing the website or section, we recommend you contact the manufacturer of your security software package. You’ll need to ask them how to enable cookies for our website, www.slimmingworld.com
Q: I have high blood pressure. Should I exercise? A: High blood pressure doesn’t have to extinguish your good intentions! Regular activity can help reduce blood pressure and, along with a change in eating habits, is recommended for people with mild hypertension. By Food Optimising you are already on the road to lower blood pressure. Including daily walking, swimming or cycling in your routine provides an even more effective way of getting back in control. If you build up gradually in your walking programme the risks of it triggering any incident are extremely low and much lower than if you did not bother to exercise at all. If you are on medication for high blood pressure we recommend you discuss your exercise plans with your doctor.
Q: I am a vegan, is Food Optimising suitable? A: Absolutely! Unlike many other diets or eating plans, the generosity and flexibility of Food Optimising means it is suitable for practically every dietary requirement or preference. The good news is, because it allows you to choose the foods you wish to eat, it is easy to incorporate any specific requirement or preference.
Q: I've missed an issue of the magazine. Can I buy back issues? A: Sorry, back issues of the magazine aren't available to buy.
Q: Is any advice available outside of the group? A: Support in between groups comes free of charge by telephoning your Consultant, or one of the many successful slimmers in our Lifelines system. If staying in your armchair is what you choose to do, please be aware that you are not giving yourself the best chance of success. The magic that happens in a Slimming World group begins by simply being physically there, no anonymity, and feeling the love and trust build. It's a warm, safe place to be and all this is the first of the building blocks of your success. If you are in a position where it really is impossible for you to attend a group, then there are ways that we at Slimming World do our level best to help.
Discover more here
Q: I'm pregnant, can I still come to my group? A: Yes, with the support of your midwife. Slimming World's Food Optimising system provides a healthy, well-balanced diet and an ideal way to prevent excess weight gain when pregnant. We have developed a policy with the support of the Royal College of Midwives in which we ask you to get your midwife's consent to continue attending your group. Your Consultant will give you a Weight Management form for your midwife to sign and you must bring this with you to your group and get it signed at each check-up throughout your pregnancy. This will ensure your Consultant can support you in managing your weight in the way that is totally safe for you and your baby.
Q: Is Slimming World's Food Optimising book available to buy? A: Slimming World’s Food Optimising book, isn’t available for purchase as a single item. It's only available by becoming a Slimming World group member, or a bodyOptimise online member.
A: Unequivocally yes! Excitingly yes! Food Optimising has been helping slimmers succeed for over 35 years, and has been researched thoroughly. But don’t just take our word for it…read what some of our fantastically successful slimmers say about a system that help them achieve their goals…
Q: Are there any Slimming World groups in the Republic of Ireland? A: Yes! We currently have groups in County Donegal. Click here for the list of groups in the area. As we expand in the Republic of Ireland you’ll find groups opening up throughout the country. Telephone 01 656 9696 for further group information.
A: Food Optimising takes account of
Using these principles, Food Optimising creates, without distressing hunger, an energy (calorie) deficit which causes the body to draw on its own stores of body fat and convert this to energy.
Q: How do I get the password for LifelineOnline? A: Your Slimming World Consultant will give out the password each week at your group meeting. The group password is only available from your Consultant.
Q: Can I still come to Slimming World while breastfeeding? A: Once your baby is 6 weeks old and you've had your post-natal check-up, you are welcome to return to your group, but we ask you to check first with your midwife or doctor. Your body needs extra energy and calcium while you are breastfeeding and we recommend you increase your Healthy Extra choices. Your Consultant will be able to show you the recommendations and booklet in your group.
Q: I'd like to run a group, how do I go about it? A: We are delighted to encourage members who've successfully lost weight with us to develop new roles with Slimming World. Helping others to shed the misery of excess weight as a Slimming World Consultant is such a rare and special job. And of course it requires a special person - one who genuinely cares about the health and happiness of others. With 20 million overweight people in the UK alone, Slimming World Consultants have the opportunity to make a real difference to the quality of life of millions of slimmers. For more information click here, call Penny at Slimming World Head Office on 01773 546384 or talk to your Consultant.
Q: I am a vegetarian, will the diet be suitable? A: Yes - you can choose from all the vegetables, grains, pulses, pastas, and beans you can possibly imagine! Add cheese or soya products, nuts and seeds and you will find that Food Optimising is a vegetarian’s dream.
Q: I have diabetes. Will Body Magic suit me? A: Yes. Regular activity is an important part of the management of type 2 diabetes. It helps the body respond better to insulin and improves glucose control. Activity can improve insulin sensitivity independent of any weight loss, but of course, losing weight through exercise too brings even greater benefits.
A: Hifi bars, Slimming World's high fibre cereal bars are only available from Slimming World groups.
Q: Is Food Optimising expensive? A: Food Optimising can be as cheap or as expensive as you want to make it. Take another look through the Free Food list. A lot of Free Foods including potatoes, pasta, eggs, beans, tinned tomatoes and frozen vegetables like beans, corn, leeks, spinach, carrots and swede can all be bought very cheaply.
Q: Do you offer a home visit service? A: No, but your Consultant is always only a phone call away. We also encourage members to use 'Lifelines' - the phone numbers of friends and other members you can contact for support when you need it.
Q: I'm on HRT, will I still be able to lose weight? A: We have many, many members who are losing weight successfully while on HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy). While some women feel taking HRT may have slowed their weight loss, it has not prevented them from losing weight and there is absolutely NO convincing evidence that HRT causes weight gain.
A: There's plenty of evidence that being too rigid means you're more likely to give up and put your weight back on and that allowing yourself to be a little more flexible is the key to long term success. If 10 Syns a day is where you need to be on a regular basis, but sometimes it's just too tight for comfort, it's far better to allow yourself extra Syns every now and again without the punishment of compensating the next day. Never again will you be able to accuse yourself of 'blowing it' just because you needed a few more Syns on the odd day or two.
Q: How can I Syn my home-made recipe? A: The best way to work out the Syn value for any homemade recipe is to 'Syn' each individual ingredient used from the Syns Section in your Food Optimising Book.
A: Certainly, you can still Food Optimise. You may want to make some adjustments to your Healthy Extra choices. Ask your Consultant for more information.
Q: Why are some fruits Free when raw, but have a Syn value when cooked, juiced or pureed? A: While fruit in its natural form is bulky, filling and often time-consuming to eat, in cooked or liquidised form it is a very effective way of adding a lot of extra energy (calories) in a non-bulky and non-filling way. Consider eating an orange. Peeling, breaking up the segments and eating just one orange can be a lengthy process. Now think about the juice that orange would produce – it contains a similar number of calories, yet it’s gone in a gulp – in fact it takes 8 oranges to make a small glass of orange juice and it’s not filling in the slightest! It’s all about getting the most (optimum) satisfaction from your foods with Food Optimising. We count juiced and cooked fruit as Syns to protect your weight losses.
Q: I can't get to a group, can I join online? A: Absolutely! bodyOptimise, our online membership is a great solution for you and it’s a great time to join to take advantage of our special offer - which means a saving of at least £19.95 on your first three month subscription!
Q: I’m expecting a baby. Should I exercise? A: Pregnancy doesn’t have to mean inactivity and for most pregnant women, regular activity will be highly beneficial. Being fit is an advantage both in the pregnancy and recovery period.
Q: Can I take my toddler along to Slimming World with me? A: Do bring your child with you to the group if you cannot make other childcare arrangements. Your Consultant will appreciate it if you let her know and if you can bring some toys, colouring books or story books to amuse your child during the group. Many daytime groups have lots of young parents as members, and these will often have toys provided.
Q: Is it women-only, or can men join? A: Men are very welcome, both as members and as Consultants. Men love our generous eating plan - they do very well on it. Browse through some of our success stories or read about some of the couples who've Food Optimised together - see how Slimming World suits them - and how much they were able to eat!
A: That depends on how much you want to lose. Steady weight loss of 1 to 2lbs per week is recommended in government health guidelines. Sometimes people with a lot of weight to lose will have a more rapid weight loss in the first few weeks. You could lose up to 1 stone/14lbs in five weeks, 2 stones/28lbs in ten weeks.
A: Everything! And if you're thinking of this as a diet, then you're in for a treat. It's a way of eating for life - in every sense of the word. Diets don't work! Eating in a way that looks after your physiological and psychological needs does. In other words, eating healthily, enjoying what you eat and being satisfied is the only sane alternative to dieting. Food Optimising is that sane alternative. Have a look at our sample 7-day menu – you might be surprised by just how much you can eat!
Q: What is Quark? Where can I buy it? A: Quark is a skimmed milk soft cheese and is found in most major supermarkets in the chiller department along with cottage cheese, cheese etc.
Q: How do I register for LifelineOnline? A: LifelineOnline is our exclusive members-only website.
Q: How can I subscribe to the magazine? A: You can contact our free credit card hotline on 0800 131 3150 (9am-5.30pm Mon-Fri) The prices are as follows:-
A: It's at the heart of a Slimming World group, the most important part of the support, inspiration and motivation unique to Slimming World. It's the time when everyone in the group can share their successes, their problems and discover solutions together. Research shows slimmers are more successful when part of a supportive group.
Q: Will I get muscly if I start exercising? A: The last thing we want is to create a country full of Gladiator lookalikes! Whilst intense activities like regular, repetitive weight training can build muscle (if you’ve got plenty of testosterone), moderately intense activity will tone muscle and reduce body fat. Rather than having bulging biceps, you’ll end up with a firmer, beautifully defined body.
Q: Is there a special offer if I join with my family? A: Yes! Join with 4 other members of your family (or friends/colleagues) and you'll all receive your first week free!
Q: What is Slimming World’s Extra Easy plan? A: You might have heard about our famous Green and Original (or Red) eating plans… and now Food Optimising has become Extra Easy – giving members even more choice, more flexibility and more Free Food than ever before!
Q: What is Slimming World on Referral? A: Slimming World on Referral is a partnership scheme between health professionals and Slimming World, providing overweight patients with effective, long-lasting weight loss support.
Q: I'm looking for a specific recipe. Can you help? A: Unfortunately, we are unable to send out recipes by fax, email or post.
Q: Does Fybogel need to be counted as Syns? A: Fybogel does not have a Syn value. Medical advisors have informed us that because fybogel is not absorbed into the body it does not provide any energy, and therefore it does not need to be counted as Syns.
Q: Will drinking plenty of water improve my weight loss? A: Contrary to popular belief, drinking water doesn’t magically speed up weight loss or increase your metabolic rate. Feelings of thirst, however, are often mistaken for feelings of hunger so drinking a glass of water rather than a packet of crisps can allay that feeling (of course, with Food Optimising, you can reach for some Free Food or count Syns without worrying about adding inches!). Water also keeps you hydrated and lubricated, so it’s important to include around 6-8 glasses or 1½-2 litres of fluids a day (that includes low calorie squash, juices, tea and coffee.)
Q: I lead a very active social life - Is it possible to Food Optimise too? A: Absolutely! Losing weight with Slimming World certainly doesn’t mean leading a hermit’s existence. Like you, we love our food and social life – we believe long-term success only comes when you can eat, enjoy and lose weight! Ask your Consultant for more information, or logon to LifelineOnline's 'useful features' section.
A: The best place to find out more about Food Optimising's Healthy Extras is one of our warm and friendly groups. As part of your membership you will receive a Food Optimising book which lists dozens of Healthy Extras.
Q: I want to stop smoking, but I'm scared of putting on weight, can you help? A: We most certainly can! Many ex-smokers tend to eat more as a substitute for smoking and through a new-found enjoyment of taste! Food Optimising (where you can eat MASSES of Free Food) together with the support and encouragement of a Slimming World group really can help. May we suggest that you find your nearest group right away!
Q: Why change the spelling of Sins to Syns? A: Over the years the word ‘Sins’ has been much loved but greatly debated. We wanted a new word unique to Slimming World. The word ‘Syns’ is short for ‘synergy’ and reflects the many ‘synergystic’ effects of Slimming World’s unique methods. The definition of synergy is:
Q: How are Healthy Extras decided? A: The foods listed as Healthy Extras help to ensure that you get everything you need for a healthy, balanced diet by providing a daily intake of foods rich in fibre and calcium, vitamins and minerals.
Q: I've reached my target - how do I maintain my weight? A: To maintain your weight you can still follow the Food Optimising system. If you find you are still losing weight we do suggest that you increase your Healthy Extra B choices. You could try two or more extra a day to start with, but if you gain weight reduce to one. If you are still losing weight increase to three or four until you find your personal maintenance level, as it varies from one person to another.
Q: Have Green and Original days been replaced? A: No, not at all! Food Optimising offers members even more choice!
A: bodyOptimise is Slimming World's online weight loss program that's perfect for:
Q: Will exercising help my weight loss? A: Becoming more physically active can certainly help you tone and get fitter whilst slimming, and help your weight loss.
Q: What is Team Fun Tech? I'm quite shy, it's not audience participation is it? A: It's a way of having fun in the group (and getting support, motivation and often learning more about food and healthy eating at the same time)! Usually the group is split into two teams with a little light-hearted competition based on weight loss and food ideas. You can just watch and enjoy the fun, or shout out your answers along with the rest - you certainly won't be put under the spotlight.
Q: I am trying to register but it keeps telling me there is a problem with my email address A: If you share your e-mail address and the person you share it with has already registered for LifelineOnline, you will need to use a different e-mail address. The website recognizes each member by their individual e-mail addresses so it won’t let a second person register with the details. If you would like an e-mail address specifically for the purposes of using LifelineOnline Yahoo (http://www.yahoo.co.uk) and Hotmail (http://www.msn.com) both supply free e-mail addresses.
Q: Which is better - Original or Green? A: Both choices are equally effective for weight loss and we find there is no difference in our members’ rate of weight loss whether they prefer the Green or Original choice. Along with Slimming World’s famous Green and Original choices we now have Extra Easy - giving members even more choice, more flexibility and more Free Food than ever before!
Q: Will I have to make drastic changes to the way I eat? A: Make no mistake, even though there is nothing you cannot eat, you will be making changes to your eating patterns. It just won't have the associated pain and anxiety you may have come to expect from ‘dieting’ - because you won't be going hungry and you won't be checking / weighing / measuring / assessing every food you eat for its calorie / points content. That really is pure, old-fashioned, unenlightened, misinformed thinking and the best way to fail long-term. This isn't opinion, this is well-documented, evidence-based fact.
A: Absolutely not! Any slimming system that leaves you hungry is destined to fail. That's one of the reasons why having a limited number of calories / points fails again and again. Once you've run out of points, you have no choice but to go hungry or 'break' your diet. It's important to understand that you didn't fail, the diet failed you. Free Foods are an integral part of Food Optimising, and yes, you can eat as much of these foods as you like. When you become a member, you will gain access to a list of hundreds of Free Foods online, and tons of information to help ensure that you never go hungry again.
Q: What happens when I reach the weight I wish to be? Can I still go to my group to check my weight? A: Yes, we'd love to see you each week! So much so, that as a Target Member you will come to your group ABSOLUTELY FREE as long as you stay within 3lbs of your Personal Target Weight.
Q: Can I have extra Syns if I exercise? A: We believe the best way to manage your weight healthily is to combine a healthy weight-reducing diet with physical activity. We wouldn't recommend you 'cancel out' any of your Syns or use exercise as a means of allowing yourself more Syns. Rewarding for exercise by allowing yourself more Syns can result in poorer weight loss as it is human nature to overestimate how much energy you burn through exercise and very easy to overcompensate if you eat in reward for exercise.
Q: Where can I get a food diary from? A: Food diaries are only available from your Slimming World Consultant (during the first 4 weeks of membership, while you're learning to Food Optimise, or as a motivation tool as and when you need it) or in electronic format on our members' website, LifelineOnline. If you're a member of a Slimming World group, please ask your Consultant for the password and click the link on the homepage to register
A: Free2Go is a specially created healthy eating plan based on Food Optimising for younger members, aged 11-15. It includes a huge list of unlimited Free Foods and fibre and calcium-rich Healthy Extras for optimum health and satisfaction. Free2Go – with the help of fully trained Consultants – helps young members reduce the less healthy options by discovering cool swaps and healthy recipes. Our young members receive specially written books to help them make positive lifestyle changes, with the support of their family and with their doctor's recommendation as guidelines for their progress.
Q: I have IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), can I still lose weight? A: Yes, Food Optimising is an ideal way to eat a healthy diet to lose weight. Many of our members with IBS have found the condition and their general health have improved significantly since beginning to Food Optimise. IBS is a very common condition (around one-third of the population are likely to suffer from it at some time) however, the term IBS covers a number of conditions and there is no single cause or treatment for it. Food Optimising allows you to choose the foods you want to eat, so you will be easily able to avoid or limit any foods you find aggravate your IBS symptoms. As with all medical conditions we recommend that you consult your doctor and always follow any treatment suggested by your doctor or hospital.
Q: I'm pregnant, can I still Food Optimise? A: Yes, with the support of your midwife. Slimming World's Food Optimising system provides a healthy, well-balanced diet and an ideal way to prevent excess weight gain when pregnant. We have developed a policy with the support of the Royal College of Midwives in which we ask you to get your midwife's consent to continue attending your group. Your Consultant will give you a Weight Management form for your midwife to sign and you must bring this with you to your group and get it signed at each check-up throughout your pregnancy. This will ensure your Consultant can support you in managing your weight in the way that is totally safe for you and your baby.
A: If the product now only has a low Syn value and you continue to count it as Free Food and you’re still losing weight, then there’s no logical reason not to continue. However, if your weight loss slows or stops you may need to review your overall Syn count. Sometimes what we could ‘get away with’ in the earlier days changes as we lose more and more weight.
Q: Syns formula A: There isn't a particular formula for calculating Syns (if only it was that simple!), which is one of the reasons why we invented the Online Syns Calculator. The Calculator takes in to account all of the nutrition information, as well as considering if the product contains any Free Food;
Q: Why don't you have weekly sample menus? A: At Slimming World, we encourage members to achieve long-term success by discovering how to fit Food Optimising into their daily routine. Unlike many "diets" it is easy to Food Optimise and still enjoy your favourite food and drink. Whilst we supply a sample menu to help new members and visitors to the site, we encourage Food Optimisers to become relaxed and comfortable with their new pattern of eating. For many members' rigidly adhering to a sample menu will make for miserable meal times, and will eventually become intolerable.
Q: Do you have any advice for getting rid of loose skin? A: We are aware of some members finding they have excess or loose skin after quite large weight losses, although this does vary from person to person and can depend on the amount of elasticity in the person's skin.
Q: Do you have any advice for getting rid of loose skin? A: We are aware of some members finding they have excess or loose skin after quite large weight losses, although this does vary from person to person and can depend on the amount of elasticity in the person's skin.
Q: What is a Countdown Course? A: It's a way of making a commitment to your weight loss plan by paying for six or twelve weeks at once. You'll find full details here.
A: With Food Optimising you eat until you're satisfied. You're actively encouraged to eat, as opposed to not eat. You're actively encouraged to fill your plate with normal, everyday foods that will satisfy the heartiest appetite. And the foods that we'll be asking you to choose first are also the foods that will give you maximum protection against cancer, heart disease, strokes, diabetes, high blood pressure and a whole range of health problems that are caused by poor nutrition.
Q: What is Vecon and where can I buy it? A: Vecon is a really versatile concentrated vegetable stock that is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. We've used it in lots of recipes, as it's Free on all Food Optimising choices. Vecon is available in most health food shops such as Holland & Barrett.
Q: How do I access Syns Online? A: Syns Online is only available to members of a Slimming World group, via LifelineOnline, or members of our online slimming programme, bodyOptimise.
Q: The navigation on the left doesn't work A: If you experience any problems with the navigation, please use the text links at the bottom of each page to navigate between sections.
Q: Is Food Optimising the same as Food Combining? A: No, Food Optimising is very different to food combining. Food combining is an extremely restrictive way of eating, which dictates that proteins and carbohydrates must not be eaten together in the same meal. The fact that many foods have both carbohydrates and proteins in them, goes some way to show how daft this way of eating really is. This bears no resemblance to Food Optimising where members have the freedom to choose from hundreds of Free Foods, including lean meat, fish and poultry, pasta, rice and grains, vegetables and fruit. Members enjoy favourites such as spaghetti Bolognese, curry and rice and cottage pie… and experience sensational slimming results!
A: Tell your Consultant in advance and you won't have to pay for missed weeks. You are allowed to miss six weeks without charge in any year for holidays and illness. If you are on holiday in the UK you will be welcome to sign in as a visitor at your nearest group.
Q: I've been prescribed Xenical. Can I still attend a group? A: We are not aware of any reason why you should not be able to continue attending your group and following Food Optimising whilst taking this medication.
Q: Is Slimming World's Original choice the same as Atkins? A: No. Our dietary system, Food Optimising, is based on current healthy eating guidelines, and is an ideal way to eat a balanced diet and lose weight. Food Optimising allows members the freedom to choose what they eat, when they eat and how often they eat. There is little or no weighing and no calorie counting involved whatsoever.
Q: I have high cholesterol. Do I need to Food Optimise differently? A: Having too much cholesterol in your blood can increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke, the good news is that one of the many health benefits our members report is a reduced cholesterol level.
Q: How do I access Syns Online? A: Syns Online is only available to members of a Slimming World group, via LifelineOnline, or members of our online slimming programme, bodyOptimise.
Q: Do you produce ready meals? A: We don’t produce ready meals, however, you can use ready meals from any supermarket when Food Optimising. Over 39,000 Syn values of branded foods are available on Syns Online or you can use the online Syns calculator for products not yet listed on Syns Online.
Q: Can I pay for groups for a friend? A: Yes, you can buy six and twelve-week Gift Vouchers , with or without membership. (UK only)
Q: Is it similar to anything else I might have tried? A: Food Optimising is unique. It’s an approach to eating that is nutritionally and psychologically unparalleled and completely effective for long term weight loss.
Q: I keep getting a message telling me that LifelineOnline is for members only - I am a member! A: We've discovered that some PC software is creating a small problem for a few members. One of these is Zone Alarm, which is personal firewall software and we have found a fix for this; please select privacy>site list and uncheck the third party web bugs setting.
Q: When printing out pages, information gets chopped off! A: To print normal web pages from the website, we recommend that you set your printer to print in landscape mode and normal quality on A4 sized paper. If, in this format, the edges are being cut off, please check your margin settings and reduce them slightly. Your printer’s instruction manual should show you how to change these settings; I’m afraid we’re unable to provide assistance.
A: Usually an hour and a half.
Q: I have a food allergy. Can I continue to Food Optimise? A: Yes, unlike many other diets or eating plans, the generosity and flexibility of Food Optimising means it is suitable for practically every dietary requirement or preference. The good news is, because it allows you to choose the foods you wish to eat, it is easy to incorporate any specific requirement or preference.
Q: I have a wheat intolerance. Can I Food Optimise? A: Food Optimising does cater for members requiring a gluten or wheat-free diet. Unlike many other diets or eating plans, the generosity and flexibility of Food Optimising means that it is suitable for practically every dietary requirement or preference.
Q: If my membership is paid for, do I have to pay for the recipe books? A: When you join a Slimming World group, you'll receive the exclusive Food Optimising members' pack. featuring everything you need to know about Slimming World’s generous Green and Original eating plans, new Extra Easy plan, along with Mix2Max and Success Express. The pack also includes Body Magic - a members' guide to boosting your weight loss and being fit for life.
Q: Printing recipes from the website uses loads of ink - how can I reduce this? A: To reduce the amount of ink used when printing Slimming World pages (for personal use), please uncheck your 'print background colours and images' setting in your tools > internet options > advanced menu.
Q: Do your websites provide a message board or forum for members? A: We have researched the use of forums and message boards on a variety of websites (slimming and otherwise) in depth over the last several years. Although many of the messages posted are generally supportive, the misuse of these boards is sadly evident. Some of this is done completely out of awareness – e.g. helpful hints about Food Optimising, if the basic information is incorrect, can send a member way off track; reading comments intended to be supportive can be interpreted very differently, especially if our self-esteem is already low.
A: Yes, the support you get in your group is vital to your success. Shiftworkers should let their Consultant know in advance if they cannot attend, then they will not be charged. You will be welcomed at any of our groups nationally, whether you are working away or on holiday.
Q: Can I send in a Syns enquiry by e-mail? A: Due to the huge demand from members for Syn values we are unable to provide replies to individual Syn enquiries by email. For the latest Syn values please ring the Syns Hotline on 09068 518 518 (UK only). Syns Hotline calls are charged at 60p per minute from a BT landline. Calls from other networks and mobiles may be considerably higher, please contact your service provider for more information. Lines are open Monday to Friday 9.00am - 7.00pm. If possible please have the product packaging with you when calling.
Q: Can I lose weight whilst on the contraceptive pill? A: We would like to reassure you that we do have many members who are losing weight very successfully whilst taking all sorts of different medication and treatments, including contraceptive pills. We are aware that some contraceptives can cause fluid retention, which can make it more difficult to see a weight loss at times. However, even if your weight shown on the scales tends to be more erratic due to fluctuations in fluid, your monthly weight loss should be good if Food Optimising 100%. There is a limit to the amount of fluid that can be gained in this way and members following Food Optimising will still be losing body fat, despite no change on the scales from time to time. The regular loss of body fat should soon start to show as a great weight loss on the scales!
Q: I have arthritis. Can I Food Optimise? A: Slimming World’s Food Optimising system helps members lose weight by following a healthy, balanced diet and can be of great benefit to general health. We are not aware of any specific dietary advice for arthritis, however we often get feedback from members whose health as improved since Food Optimising.
Q: Can I take my toddler along to Slimming World with me? A: Do bring your child with you to the group if you cannot make other childcare arrangements. Your Consultant will appreciate it if you let her know and if you can bring some toys, colouring books or story books to amuse your child during the group. Many daytime groups have lots of young parents as members, and these will often have toys provided.
A: Because losing just 10% of your body weight - and keeping it off - can bring amazing health benefits we, at Slimming World, have introduced Club 10. There's no charge to join this prestigious group, in fact membership is automatic. All you have to do is lose 10% of your weight and you'll be given a Club 10 award. Keep that weight off for 10 weeks (or lose even more) and we'll reward you with a free week! Click here to discover 10 great reasons for losing just 10% of your weight.
Q: I’m getting a security message when I try to logon/register A: If you're using Internet Explorer 4.0 or an original version of Internet Explorer 5.0, you may see an error message before proceeding to the next page stating "cannot connect to an expired server certificate."
Q: Will being on my period affect my weight loss? A: Many of our members find that they tend to retain some fluid during the week of their period and unfortunately this can show as a lack of weight loss or even a weight gain. However, the fluid retention is only temporary.
Q: I work shifts - will Food Optimising be suitable for me? A: Your shift patterns should cause no problems at all with Food Optimising. The beauty of Free Food is that you can eat as much of it as you want, therefore it doesn’t matter if you end up eating more than the regular ‘three meals a day’ or at unusual times of the day!
Q: I have tried to logon to the website but I cannot get in. A: If this is the first time you’ve visited LifelineOnline, you will need to select the ‘register’ option. You’ll then begin a short registration process in which you’ll enter further information including your Username (email) and postcode. Once you've successfully registered then using the Logon button will give you access to the site in future.
Q: Can I attend a group to see if it's 'me'? A: Absolutely. Every new member is invited to sit through a group before they commit to joining. Get an idea here of what to expect on your first week.
Q: Do I have to be a certain weight to join? A: We are not in the business of telling people to lose weight. If we were, we'd be extremely unpopular! If you decide you want to lose weight, and choose the Food Optimising route, then we're with you all the way. Likewise, your target weight is set by you, and no-one else. What we're here to do is motivate and encourage you, bring you success stories to inspire you and recipes to keep your menus vibrant and appealing. However, if you have too little weight to lose we are unable to offer you membership. For your safety Slimming World has lowest acceptable weights that we will accept as a personal target. Your Consultant will be happy to explain more about Personal Achievement Targets and lowest acceptable target weights in the group.
Q: I keep getting "Your session has expired" when I use LifelineOnline. A: Unless there are long periods of inactivity between logging on and using the website, it sounds like this may be a browser or software incompatibility problem.
Q: I've changed my email address. How do I get into LifelineOnline now? A: You will need to logon to LifelineOnline using your old email address, group password and personal password.
Q: Will everyone know how much I weigh? A: Absolutely not! That's part of our promise to you . We will never announce your weight in the group, only your weight change (and if you'd prefer that not be known, just ask your Consultant not to announce it to the group).
Q: Could the menopause be affecting my slimming progress? A: Medical experts inform us that there is little evidence that the menopause should be a direct cause of weight gain or inability to lose weight. Weight does tend to increase with age and many people tend to see an increase in weight particularly during young adulthood and middle age. This is thought to be primarily due to change in lifestyle and a gradual decrease in the amount of physical activity we do.
Q: I'm taking medication - will I lose weight? A: We would like to reassure you that we do have many members who are losing weight very successfully whilst taking all sorts of different medication and treatments and we are not aware of any reason why the medication you mention would prevent you from losing weight. However, we always advise our members to check any concerns they have about their medication with their family doctor.
Q: Do I have to pay if I miss a week? A: You are allowed to miss six weeks without charge in any year for holidays and illness; provided you tell your Consultant when you are going on holiday.
Q: LifelineOnline won't let me in! A: A red star will appear alongside the field that is incorrect.
If you're trying to log on:
Q: I'd like to re-set my LifelineOnline details. Can you help? A: No problem! If you'd like to start again on LifelineOnline, please logon as normal. Visit the My Journey section, where you'll see a link saying 'restart my journey'. Click here to continue and re-set your details.
Q: Do you offer a home visit service? A: No, but your Consultant is always only a phone call away. We also encourage members to use 'Lifelines' - the phone numbers of friends and other members you can contact for support when you need it.
Q: I have an eating disorder. Can I join a group? A: We feel that a Slimming World group may not be the best solution for your weight management at present. Although we would love to be able to help, eating disorders are not our area of expertise. We feel that for your long term health and safety you would be best supported by trained professionals in this field. We would encourage you to speak to your doctor or practice nurse regarding your weight concerns. They should be able to give appropriate guidance and possibly a referral to a specialist in this area.
Q: I'm taking anti-depressants - will I lose weight with Slimming World? A: Slimming World have many members who are losing weight very successfully whilst taking all sorts of different medication, including anti-depressants. However, we are aware that some anti-depressants are reported to improve the appetite. The great news is that with Slimming World's Food Optimising system, there is always plenty of food to eat to satisfy the appetite - you never need run out food - and still lose weight. We do have many members who find they can easily satisfy their increased appetite while taking anti-depressants and still lose weight successfully over time. We always remind members that the worst thing they can do is think that there is no point in continuing to follow Food Optimising 100% while on a medication - as this is when they will gain weight.
Q: I have a lactose intolerance. Is Food Optimising suitable for me? A: Limiting intake of dairy products should not be a problem when Food Optimising - it's very generous and flexible and does not require you to stick to any set meal plans. Because you get to choose the foods you want to eat it should be suitable for all dietary requirements or preferences.
Q: Do I have to go to the same group every week? A: No, whether you're working away from home, working shifts or on holiday, once you've joined Slimming World you'll welcomed at any of our 5,500 warm and friendly groups nationally.
Q: My group password won't work on LifelineOnline! A: LifelineOnline is case sensitive and the group password must be entered all in lowercase. Please check your CAPS lock is off.
Q: When does LifelineOnline's group password change? A: The password you receive from your Slimming World Consultant is valid for a full week until your next meeting, whether you meet on a Monday or a Thursday.
Q: What happens at a Slimming World group? A: If you're new to Slimming World, you'll be warmly welcomed at the door by your Consultant.
Q: How does the Senior Citizen offer work? A: You'll benefit from a reduced weekly fee of £4.25 (€8.50 in the Republic of Ireland) and can buy Countdown Plus at a special reduced fee too - that's 6 weeks of slimming for the price of 5 or 12 weeks for the price of 10!
Q: I'm told my cookies are disabled! A: It sounds as though your PC settings may be stopping you from viewing the website properly. Each browser is different, so check the "Help" menu of your browser to learn how to change your cookie preferences.
Q: How do I change my personal password on LifelineOnline? A: Logon using your old password and registered username (email address). You'll also require your group password (available from your Consultant).
Q: Where can I buy a Syns Calculator? A: The Syns Calculator is an online tool available to members of a Slimming World group (via LifelineOnline) or our online slimming service, bodyOptimise.
Q: I've reset my details on LifelineOnline - how do I get them back? A: I'm sorry, as we mention on the reset page, once clicked all your details are deleted so you can start your LifelineOnline journey again.
Q: I registered with LifelineOnline several months ago - why can't I login? A: If you find that you can’t access the website because your password is incorrect, please double-check that your personal password is entered in exactly the same format that you first registered with and you are entering your group password all in lowercase letters. If there is an error with your password, you will see a link on the screen where you can ask for a password reminder to be emailed to you.
Q: How much does it cost to join LifelineOnline? A: Great news! LifelineOnline is absolutely and exclusively FREE to Slimming World group members.
Q: I'm not a member. Can I join LifelineOnline? A: LifelineOnline is exclusively for Slimming World group members.
Q: I've requested a password reminder and haven't heard back from you A: If you have an AOL email address you may be currently experiencing difficulties receiving emails from us. This is due to AOL’s high-security SPAM filters. While we work with AOL to find a solution to this problem, you could create another email address specifically for the purposes of using LifelineOnline. Yahoo and Hotmail both supply free e-mail addresses.
Q: Does Slimming World have a mobile application? A: As well as the continuing development of our websites, we’re constantly looking for other ways to provide great service to members – including mobile applications. We are looking into launching new applications in the near future, so watch this space!
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Recipe archive:
Browse our online archive for great low-Syn ideas!
Why do we do that?
Discover why Slimming World groups are the best places to support you with your weight loss.
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