Diet nutrition and weight loss

IT was 1984 and newly qualified doctor Daniel Drucker was excited to dive into the world of ­scientific research.

Fresh out of the University of Toronto Medical School, the 28-year-old was working at a lab in Boston in the US when his supervisor asked him to carry out a routine experiment — which proved to be anything but.

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For it led to Dr Drucker’s discovery of a previously unknown hormone, sparking a new era in medicine.

What he modestly calls a “happy accident” then kick-started a series of ­discoveries that made today’s game-changing weight loss jabs a reality.

The hormone was called glucagon-like peptide 1 — or GLP-1, as the world now knows it.

And the drugs that have resulted from its discovery have produced amazing effects — with users losing up to a fifth of their body weight.

So far around 50,000 of us have been prescribed jabs on the NHS for weight loss, but it is ­estimated around 1.5million people here are buying them privately — a figure that is expected to rise sharply.

Dr Drucker, now 69, tells The Sun: “I never felt like I was on the brink of something huge.

“It was just a fantastic stroke of luck to be in the right place at the right time and to be part of an ­innovation that could improve the health of hundreds of millions of people all over the world.”

The drugs are now being hailed as a possible cure for a range of other conditions too, including dementia and migraine.

But Dr Drucker warns: “We need to be cautious, respect what we don’t know, and not rush into thinking these medicines are right for everyone.

‘Full of hope’

“There could be side-effects we haven’t seen yet, especially in groups we haven’t properly studied.”

Some studies have also raised concerns about gallbladder problems and in rare cases, even ­suicidal thoughts.

GLP-1 was found to play a key role in regulating the appetite and blood sugar levels, by slowing digestion and signalling a feeling of fullness to the brain.

Fat jabs such as Mounjaro and Wegovy contain synthetic versions of GLP-1, tirzepatide and semaglutide, which mimic the natural hormone with astonishing, fat-busting results.

Originally these drugs — known as GLP-1 agonists — were licensed to treat Type 2 diabetes, due to their ability to stimulate the body’s production of insulin, which cuts high blood glucose levels.

But over the past 15 years, after studies ­confirmed the potential to tackle obesity, pharmaceutical firms have reapplied to have the drugs approved as weight loss treatments.

And now evidence is emerging almost daily to suggest these drugs could help treat and even prevent other chronic and degenerative diseases.

Hundreds of scientific trials are under way, and Dr Drucker is “full of hope”, adding that he would consider taking the drugs himself, to ward off ­Alzheimer’s disease.

He says: “I think the next five years is going to be massive. These drugs won’t fix everything, but if they help even half the ­conditions we are testing them for, we could finally find ­treatments for conditions once thought untreatable.”

Decades after his discovery, Dr Drucker is now a professor of ­medicine at the University of Toronto, and a senior investigator at the affiliated Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, where GLP-1 research now fills his life.

He says: “Every morning I turn on my phone and check what’s happened overnight — what new ­discovery has been made, what could this hormone cure or treat.”

Even so, in May UK health chiefs warned that the jabs must not be taken during pregnancy or in the two months before conception, after studies of animals found that semaglutide can cause ­pregnancy loss and birth defects.

But with human use, no such ­danger has been ­confirmed, Dr Drucker says, and dozens of women have ­conceived while taking them.

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Some scientists even believe GLP-1 drugs may boost ­fertility, and could become a go-to for infertility treatment.

Dr Drucker, listed in Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024, says: “It wouldn’t surprise me if five years from now, once we have more clinical trial evidence, if we start recommending these medicines to help people get pregnant, and have safer pregnancies.”

It is exciting stuff, but Dr Drucker admits he also worries about people using the drugs for the wrong ­reasons — such as slim, young women in pursuit of unrealistic beauty ideals on social media.

He says: “If I’ve got a 17-year-old who wants to lose another five per cent of her body weight to look like some celebrity, that’s a real concern.

“We haven’t studied 10,000 teenage girls on these drugs over five years. We don’t know how they affect bones, fertility, mental health or development in the long term.”

Last year model Lottie Moss, sister of supermodel Kate, revealed she had ended up in hospital after a seizure linked to high doses of weight loss drug Ozempic.

I think the next five years will be massive. These drugs won’t fix everything, but if they help even half the conditions we are testing for, we could find treatments for conditions thought untreatable

Dr Daniel Drucker

A nurse told her the dose she had been injecting was meant for someone twice her size.

Dr Drucker warned that older adults, people with eating disorders and those with mental health ­conditions may respond differently to the drugs.

He says: “We’re still ­learning, and just because a medicine works well in one group doesn’t mean it is safe for everyone.”

One of the biggest risks is dehydration, which OnlyFans star Lottie blamed for her seizure.

Dr Drucker says: “Some people experience nausea and vomiting, which can lead to dehydration, and that in itself can be dangerous.”
He also warns that losing weight too quickly can reduce muscle mass and bone density, which is especially risky for older people.

He adds: “This is why it is important people only take these drugs when being monitored by medical professionals, so they can be properly assessed for side-effects and receive the safest, most effective care.”

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So far at least 85 people in the UK have died after taking weight loss jabs, according to reports sent to the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency watchdog.

While none of the deaths has been definitively linked to the drugs, health bodies noted a “suspicion” that they may have played a role.

Dr Drucker says: “Reports like these can raise flags, but without proper comparison groups they don’t tell the full story.

‘Drugs aren’t candy’

“In fact, large trials show GLP-1 drugs actually reduce death rates in people with Type 2 diabetes and those with obesity and heart disease.

“So far, the evidence looks solid and reassuring.”

With millions of patients treated over the years, GLP-1s have a well-established safety record for diabetes and obesity.

But Dr Drucker warns that for newer uses, such as ­Alzheimer’s, fatty liver disease or sleep apnoea, we need more data.

He says: “I don’t think there are any hidden, terrifying side-effects waiting to be uncovered.

“But that doesn’t mean people should take them lightly. We don’t yet have 20 years of experience ­treating some of these ­conditions.

“We need to approach each new indication with appropriate caution, to really understand the benefits ­versus the potential risks.

“These drugs aren’t candy, they won’t fix everything — and like all medicines they have side-effects.

“I don’t think we should abandon our focus on safety. We need to move carefully and thoughtfully as this field evolves.”

I’m not struggling with Type 2 diabetes or obesity, but I do have a family history of ­Alzheimer’s. I’m watching the trials closely and, depending on the results, I wouldn’t rule out taking them in the future

Dr Daniel Drucker

He continues: “I’m not struggling with Type 2 diabetes or obesity, but I do have a family history of ­Alzheimer’s. I’m watching the trials closely and, depending on the results, I wouldn’t rule out taking them in the future.

“I have friends from college who are already showing early signs of cognitive decline, and there’s hope that in some cases, ­semaglutide might help to slow it.”

Several studies over the years ­support that theory.

A recent study by a US university found that the jabs could prevent Alzheimer’s-related changes in people with Type 2 diabetes.

Separate research from Taiwan found that people on GLP-1 agonist drugs appeared to have a 37 per cent lower risk of dementia.

Dr Drucker now regularly receives messages from people around the world whose lives have been changed by the drugs his lab helped to create.

He says: “I get tons of stories. ­People send me emails and photos, not just showing their weight loss, but how their health has changed in other ways too.”

Some say the jabs have helped their chronic pain, cleared brain fog or improved long-standing health conditions such as ulcerative colitis or arthritis.

Dr Drucker adds: “It’s incredibly heartwarming and I never get tired of hearing these stories.”

But for him there is even deeper meaning attached to his discovery.

His 97-year-old mother Cila, ­originally from Poland, survived the Holocaust, spending months as a child hiding in the family’s attic before they were captured and held in a ghetto, where her mother and sister were later shot dead.

At the end of the war in 1945 she became a refugee in Palestine, then in 1953 she emigrated to Canada, first settling in Montreal then making Toronto her home in the 1990s.

Dr Drucker says his work has helped to ease Cila’s survivor’s guilt which had consumed her for decades.

He says: “She looks at my work and she’s so proud of how many people it could potentially help.”

WHETHER it’s fish and chips, a fry-up or afternoon tea and cake, British diets are pretty calorific.

And all that fat, sugar and salt is having a serious impact on our waistlines, with almost one in three of us considered obese.

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That might seem pretty high, but it’s actually considerably lower than the 43 per cent obesity rate in the United States.

Even Australia trumps the UK at 32 per cent, and these figures don’t even account for the people who are simply overweight. 

Around the world, each country has its own way of eating; some contain lots of processed foods, while others enjoy more vegetables or have a focus on fish and meat. 

Often, these diets have a huge influence on the population’s body mass index (BMI) – a way of measuring if you’re a healthy weight. 

A score between 18.5 and 24.9 is healthy, 25 to 29.9 is overweight, and 30-plus is obese. 

Many of us think of obesity as just being fat, but it’s actually increasingly being recognised as a chronic, complex disease. 

It can have a huge, negative impact on your health, increasing your risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and even some types of cancer. 

Thankfully, you can tailor your diet to help keep the number on the scales down. 

But which one is best?

Follow in the footsteps of these countries, which all have a lower obesity rate than the UK…

If you can’t face giving up cheese… eat like the French 

Obesity rate: 11 per cent 

CHEESE is big business in France. In fact, the French consume an average of 60lbs (27kg) of the stuff per person every year, according to Statistica. 

Instead of turning to low fat cheeses and spreads to stay slim, eat like the French and go for full fat.

“Fat is what gives a sense of fullness in a meal,” says Lucia Stansbie, registered nutritional therapist.

“When we eat fat, hormones telling the brain to stop eating are released, making a full fat yogurt more satisfying that a zero per cent one, so you end up needing to eat less. 

“Many low fat foods have added sugars and emulsifiers to recreate the same texture of full fat foods, making them ultra processed foods (UPFS).”

Research published in the journal Current Nutrition Reports identified UPFs as being a key driver of obesity.

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In France, all-day grazing is a no-no – so much so, that snack products often contain a warning on the packet which says, “for your health, avoid snacking between meals”. 

“Snacks can be the downfall of all diets as they can be very calorie-dense,” says Lucia.

“And if they’re sugar-rich, they can lead to a sugar high followed by a crash so more snacks are needed to pick yourself up.

“Eating a proper meal that fills you up until your next one is the best strategy.”

Instead of having a plain, low-carb, low-calorie vegetable salad for lunch to manage your weight, enjoy a meal with a source of protein, some carbs and healthy fats to keep you full until dinner time.

“This is better than being really hungry a few hours after lunch and craving a high calorie snack,” says Jess Hillard, nutritionist at Warrior. 

Try some spicy chicken with sweet potato mash, avocado and a vinaigrette.

If you like wine… eat like the Italians

Obesity rate: 22 per cent 

ALTHOUGH alcohol can pack in some serious calories, you don’t have to go teetotal to lose weight. 

Instead, go for quality booze, in moderation, alongside food. 

“In Italy, people don’t drink on an empty stomach,” says Lucia.

“Doing so leads to sugar spikes and then sugar crashes, so we eat quick-release carbs such as crisps or sweets to get our energy back.”

One way to flatten this spike is eating a decent meal. 

The size of serving plates in Italy are also smaller than the standard UK plates so smaller portions are eaten

Lucia StansbieNutritional therapist

Lucia adds: “In Italy, there is a big focus on quality and taste. 

“People don’t drink a cheap bottle of wine to get drunk. Instead, they match a nice glass of wine with the meal they are having. 

“Culturally, getting drunk and excessive drinking are frowned upon. 

“This makes a massive difference in the amount of alcohol that is consumed.”

Italian mealtimes are also leisurely. Rather than wolfing down lunch at a desk while frantically working on a deadline, Italians eat mindfully. 

“Mindful eating leads to eating slower and feeling fuller sooner, while eating while distracted – such as while working or watching TV – will lead to less satisfaction and mindlessly eating bigger amounts of foods or looking for snacks,” says Lucia.

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Don’t forget to add olive oil – the main fat used in Italy – to your meals too.

A study published in the European Journal of Nutrition found that fat loss was approximately 80 per cent higher for participants who included 25ml of extra virgin olive oil in their diet compared to those who didn’t. 

Lucia adds: “The size of serving plates in Italy are also smaller than the standard UK serving plates, so smaller portions are eaten.”

Why not try swapping your dinner plates for side plates or pasta bowls? You’ll be forced to reduce your portion!

If you love carbs… eat like the Japanese 

Obesity rate: 5 per cent 

DESPITE popular belief, carbohydrates are certainly not the devil when it comes to weight loss. 

Not only could they actually help you slim down, they could even help you live longer.

Japan is home to Okinawa – a ‘blue zone’, where many people live to 100 and beyond. 

Their diet? An estimated 10:1 carbohydrate-to-protein ratio, according to a study in the journal Age and Ageing – yes, that’s 10 times as much carbs as protein!

While you definitely shouldn’t turn your back on protein, you shouldn’t fear carbs. 

But Lucia says the type of carbs you choose will make a huge difference.

“Wholegrains have a higher fibre content, which means that the sugar spike won’t be so high, while white carbs are devoid of all fibre,” she adds.

“The body can manage a maximum of 4g of sugar in the blood at a time; the excess will be stored either in the liver as glycogen or as abdominal fat.

“Eat slow release carbs – such as wholegrains – and pair them with fibre (such as vegetables), proteins (such as meat, fish and eggs) and fats (such as avocado, olive oil and nuts) to ensure a slow release of sugar in the blood system for sustained energy and weight management.”

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Tuck into seafood and cut back on red meat.

“Fish and seafood are excellent sources of protein,” says Lucia.

“Just 100g of fish has, on average, the same amount of protein as 100g of meat but fewer calories.

“Oysters are the richest source of zinc. People with diabetes, which is often linked to obesity, tend to have lower zinc levels.  

“Plus, fish and shellfish are sources of iodine, a mineral essential for thyroid function, and suboptimal function can lead to increased weight and fatigue.” 

If you love chocolate… eat like the Swiss

Obesity rate: 14 per cent 

LINDT, Toblerone, Nestlé – some of the best chocolate in the world comes from Switzerland. 

So how can such a chocolate-filled nation remain so slim?

Along with an active lifestyle, Jess says that listening to your body is key. 

“Ignoring cravings makes you want them even more and binge on them eventually,” she says.

“Have a balanced meal before the chocolate you’re craving. 

“If you still want some chocolate, break off a few squares and put the rest of the bar away.” 

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Depriving yourself will only make you want it more and make you more likely to scoff the whole bar! 

The Swiss also love their oily fish.

“Oily fish contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA,” Jess says.

“These are excellent for brain health and they’ve been found to reduce the risk of heart disease.

“Aim for two portions of fish per week. One of these should be oily, such as salmon, mackerel or sardines.”

Aim for two fists of vegetables, one palm full of carbohydrates and one palm of protein. Any fats should be thumb-size

Jess HillardNutritionist

Omega-3s have been found to potentially help with fat loss.

In a study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, adults given 4g of fish oil per day lost 0.5kg of body fat and built more muscle than those who were not given fish oil.

Plus, research published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that incorporating fish into one meal a day as part of a weight loss regime was more effective than the regime on its own. 

“Fish’s high oil content keeps you fuller for longer as well as helping to decrease inflammation in the body,” says Jess.

Inflammation can lead to health problems, including chronic inflammation, which can even cause the body to hold onto fat, especially visceral fat which sits around your organs.

If you struggle to eat your five-a-day… eat like the Vietnamese 

Obesity rate: 2 per cent 

NOODLE soups, grilled meats, broths and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables are the order of the day in Vietnam, which boasts an incredibly low obesity rate.

Most dishes are delicious, yet nutritious – so you don’t even notice how much veg you’ve eaten.

“Vegetables are filled with fibre which will keep you fuller for longer,” says Jess.

“They also contain few calories as well as high levels of vitamins and minerals, particularly non-starchy vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, peas and leafy greens.

“Having a nutrient rich diet won’t just ‘stop cravings’ for high fat and/sugary foods.

“You will feel fuller after meals, meaning you won’t feel the need for these foods as much.”

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She recommends filling half your plate with veg at every meal, and to make sure your veggies retain their nutrients, choose steaming over boiling or frying.

Research published in the journal Nutrition & Food Science found that when steamed, vegetables such as broccoli, spinach and lettuce lose nine to 15 per cent of their vitamin C content.

The Vietnamese way of eating is an easier way to get these veggies into meals – you can buy noodle soup kits in supermarkets to try at home.

Compared to many western countries, Vietnam’s portions are also fairly moderate. 

Practising portion control is simple and can be done using just your hands. 

“Aim for two fists of vegetables, one palm full of carbohydrates and one palm of protein,” says Jess.

“Any fats, such as oils, butter and cheese, should be thumb-size.”

THE world’s first smartphone test for type 2 diabetes has launched in the UK.

The app-based check is designed to make it easier for people to spot their risk and could help cut complications such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease, which are often linked to diabetes.

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Patients place a drop of blood from a finger-prick onto a chip, which is then scanned by the PocDoc app to give results almost instantly.

NHS trusts in Cumbria and the North East are the first to roll it out, with a nationwide launch planned later this year.

The Government has hailed the app as a “potential game-changer” in the fight against diabetes as results come in within minutes, instead of the days or weeks it can currently take.

Around 5.2 million people in the UK have type 2 diabetes, with cases still rising – and a further 1.3 million thought to be undiagnosed.

“Enabling screening for type 2 diabetes risk including blood biomarkers via a smartphone app is something that has never been done before,” said PocDoc chief executive Steve Roest.

Professor Julia Newton, medical director at HI NENC, said the test could reach people who struggle with conventional health checks.

“Most people over the age of 40 are invited for an NHS health check every five years, but depending on where you live a large chunk don’t attend,” she said.

“One of the reasons we’ve found is accessing a health check in a conventional setting.

“So if those tests are made more easily available, which this test does, then we have the opportunity to reach far more people.”

She added: “If you consider the number of people with diabetes who go onto have heart attacks and strokes, if we can manage their risk before it becomes a problem that will reduce admissions to hospital, reduce mortality, and reduce complications from diabetes, such as kidney disease, heart disease, and stroke disease.”

The HbA1c finger-prick test is considered the gold standard blood test. This is because it shows average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months, giving a clearer picture than daily checks.

Steve said the app fits directly with Health Secretary Wes Streeting’s 10-year NHS plan, spotting illnesses earlier, tailoring care, and shifting more testing and diagnosis into homes and communities.

“There’s a huge gap in screening for preventable diseases,” he said.

“Right now, the system, not just in the UK but worldwide, cannot find, assess, and diagnose enough people to make a dent in tackling heart attacks, strokes, and type 2 diabetes.”

Health minister Stephen Kinnock told The i Paper that the app rollout was important because type 2 diabetes is on the rise across England.

“This is a potential game-changer and exactly the type of technology we want to see in the NHS as part of the 10 Year Health Plan – bringing our health service firmly into the 21st century and care directly into people’s homes.

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“We will make using the NHS as simple and convenient as online banking or shopping, while helping companies bring new technology into the health service more quickly.”

The seed of the device was planted 30 years ago when Steve was a teenager and witnessed his father having a catastrophic stroke in his early forties, due to undiagnosed cardiovascular disease (CVD).

“Using smartphones to deliver diagnostics is exactly what could have saved my dad from having so many [health] problems. He’s cost the NHS a fortune,” Steve said.

Around £9bn is spent on treating complications arising from diabetes, such as heart disease, kidney problems, and nerve damage.

Studies suggest that the annual cost of the disease could increase to £16.9 bn in the next 25 years.

The app’s launch comes 24 hours after the Government announced the biggest shake-up of diabetes care in a decade.

Around 750,000 patients with CVD or early-onset diabetes would benefit from fat jabs sooner, rather than keeping them for the later stages of treatment, new guidance states.

A WOMAN has revealed that men are “ashamed” to be seen in public with her because of her plus-size body – but says she always gets the last laugh.

Alex Aspasia is well-known for her body-positive attitude, where she embraces her curves no matter what.

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But when it comes to dating, it’s proving to be quite a challenge.

The 31-year-old, who got divorced last year, has been searching high and low for Mr Right – and while she’s had many suitors, there’s been a recurring issue.

They are “too ashamed” to be seen in public with her.

In a clip, which has racked up 987,000 views and over 199,000 likes, she revealed how she gets the last laugh by staying single.

“I’ve been back in the dating world and it’s been an eye-opening experience,” the size 26 model, who is 6ft tall and weighs 385lbs, told What’s The Jam.

“Despite the online hate I receive, I’ve found that plenty of men are interested in dating me.

“For most, that interest stays behind closed doors, as if they’re ashamed to be seen with a larger woman.

“I dated one guy who admitted that he doesn’t want anyone to know about us.

“And said that his family wouldn’t approve because of my size.

“It’s pretty traumatising when you get to know someone, develop feelings, and then they tell you you’re not good enough to be introduced on their arm simply because of how much you weigh.

“I’ve had professional athletes and rappers in my DMs, which proves that the idea you have to fit into a certain body to be liked isn’t true.”

Alex, who hails from Miami, US, says that men are “drawn” to her “unapologetic confidence” as it’s “rare” to find that nowadays – especially in those plus-size.

She said: “I know that kind of confidence can be magnetic.

“But I’m looking for someone who wants me for who I am, not my curves.

“I want a relationship built on genuine connection, not just attraction.”

In the video, Alex sits by herself in a restaurant, with the caption: “Another Saturday night alone because men love fat girls in [their] bed and not in public.”

Users have flocked to the comments to share their reactions.

“Don’t let them have you in private if they don’t want you in public,” someone commented. [sic]

Ana said: “Ur too beautiful for them either way.” [sic]

“So true. But claim to love big girls only to hide us,” Nicole added. [sic]

Brooke said: “Facts. My 20s were full of closet chubby chasers. I found a man who loves every inch of me in the bedroom and in public. He DGAF what anybody thinks. He’s proud to have me.” [sic]

“If one man doesn’t want you, five others will. Don’t ever settle,” added Shelly.

Alex added: “Dating as a plus-size woman is harder because men just lust after you.

“And the majority want to experience you, but don’t know how to fit you into their world because of the harsh judgment we receive.

“I still have hope that I will find somebody, and I want to tell people not to settle.

“It’s complicated.

“But I refuse to entertain anyone who would keep me a secret.”

CHANNEL 4 has opted to axe a controversial reality show following backlash from its launch. 

Around The World in 80 Weighs, which aired in 2024, followed six medically obese participants as they travelled around on a fact-finding mission to learn different cultures’ secrets to weight loss. 

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The series was hit with criticism, particularly around the show’s ads, which often featured confectionery. 

Now, according to Daily Mail, Channel 4 has opted not to bring the show back for a second season. 

“Around The World in 80 Weighs caused a stir with critics and its audience, but while Channel 4 had originally commissioned it for one series, there was scope for it to be brought back with a new batch of participants after they established the show’s format,” they said. 

“The series being parked is reflective of changing audience habits where programmes remotely reminiscent of noughties hits that created a shame culture on other people’s lives and their struggles for entertainment purposes is widely shunned.” 

Across the five episode series, the participants travelled across Japan, Texas, Tonga and India to try weight loss treatments.

This also included discovering diet secrets, and experiencing the different cultural relationships to food in both positive and negative ways.

In one uncomfortable scene, the group are seen being laughed at on the streets of Tokyo by onlookers. 

The group visit the Japanese city after it’s revealed the country only has a 4% obesity rate, compared to the UK’s 25%. 

Participant Marisa is seen telling cameras: “It just blows my mind that you’re not allowed to be who you are and you just have to fit it.

“I don’t feel like I should be here. In this country I don’t feel comfortable, and for me personally, it isn’t somewhere I would come back.”

After that, the group moved on to Tonga, which has one of the highest obesity rates in the world.

After meeting a woman who at 28 weighs 47 stone, and another who had lost both her legs, members of the group were reduced to tears as they feared they would die.

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SHE’S lost a staggering 10 stone.

And Karina’s transformation is so impressive – leaving her completely unrecognisable – that people have even accused her of using AI to alter her appearance online.

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She’s been documenting her weight loss journey on her TikTok page, and is now no stranger to confidently flaunting her new figure in skintight ensembles.

But it was a different story two years ago, when Karina was a whopping 10 stone (65kg) heavier.

In a slideshow of pictures on TikTok, she showed how she looked before losing the weight – soundtracked by Michael Bublé’s cover of Nina Simone’s Feeling Good.

In the final picture, at the culmination of the song, she showed how she looks now – with her figure perfectly highlighted by her bodycon dress.

“The journey is worth it. This is your sign to start,” she captioned the TikTok.

Unsurprisingly, people were gobsmacked by Karina’s new look, with some even alleging her glow up was AI.

“Feelinggggg… AI,” one laughed.

“Convince me that’s not AI!” another said.

While a third wrote a simple “AI”, to which Karina responded: “I’ll take this as a compliment!”

And others praised Karina for her dedication to her weight loss and transformation.

“My jaw just dropped at your last picture,” one wrote.

“Wow girl! You owned it!”

“This is a glow upp for real,” another said.

“You look like sofia vergara,” a third added.

“Biggest glow up,” someone else said.

“Wowwwww big respect, you look gorgeous,” another wrote.

“Ultimate glow up- inspiration!” someone else gushed.

As another said Karina looks “stunning”, and added: “Wow deffo glow up, well done!”

In a separate video on TikTok, Karina responded to the AI allegations as she captioned it: “Am I AI? That’s the question!”

Alongside it, she shared shots of herself in 2019 and then this year.

“You have nothing to prove to anyone but yourself; I’d take it as a compliment!” one person commented on that clip.

“The best best beeeeest weight loss transformation I have seen and I have seen many,” another praised.

Karina went on to reveal that her new look was sparked by the breakdown of her marriage.

“The breakup glow up needs to be studied,” she wrote over the top of a TikTok.

Before adding in the caption: “You don’t realise how much a situation drains you until you’re out of it.”

She added hashtags including “#divorce” and “#transformation”.

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A WOMAN has revealed how Mounjaro didn’t just help her shed weight, it also saved her son’s life.

Shell Giles took to social media to share her transformation after admitting she had tried countless diets in the past that didn’t work.

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She said: “A year ago I was 110kg (17.3st).”

Shell then shared a picture of herself before her weight loss as she explained: “After many diets and gym sessions and swimming, nothing was working (I am 42, everything slows down).”

But the mum revealed that she wasn’t just losing weight for herself, she also needed to do it to save her son’s life.

She revealed that her 17-year-old needed a new kidney and while she was a match, she needed to lose weight to go through with the operation.

Shell said she needed to get down to 80kg (12.5st) so decided to give Mounjaro a go.

In just seven months, she was able to lose 5.5st and go down to 11.8st.

Shell explained that she stopped taking in Mounjaro in March and donated her kidney in April.

Now, the mum has been off the drug for six months and says she has only put on 3kg.

“My body seems to have stabilised at this weight and I’m more than happy as I look great, and saved my son’s life,” she added.

She also updated those who commented, saying: “My son and me have recovered well to those who asked and my kidney has bedded into his body well! It was all worth it!”

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Shell shared her story on the Facebook group, mounjaro ozempic wegovy weight loss support.

The post soon went viral and many congratulated the mum and her son in the comments.

One person wrote: “What a woman, what a mother, you gave life to your son twice.”

Another commented: “Best story I’ve read to lose weight. Well done you.”

“Aww that’s a wonderful story! So happy to hear both are doing well,” penned a third.

Meanwhile a fourth said: “How amazing are you! You should be immensely proud of yourself not just because of your weight loss (and you look amazing) but because of saving your son.”

“Wow what a fantastic story,” claimed a fifth

Someone else added: “You look incredible and what an amazing gift to give your son.”

A WOMAN who was left with a “turkey neck” after losing three stone on weight loss jabs is finally comfortable in her own skin after getting a £10,000 ‘mummy makeover’ abroad.

Victoria Vigors decided to have a tummy tuck, liposuction, breast lift, face lift and neck lift after using Mounjaro – a prescription injection used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity – to slim down.

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The 40-year-old initially felt “misshapen” after losing so much weight.

But now she’s never been happier – and says she looks better today than she did aged 20.

“I was very self-conscious about my fupa,” the mum, who is a content creator with 270,000 followers, revealed.

“My tummy overhung because I had a caesarean with my daughter, so it left a scar that my stomach would fall over.

“It was really obvious – I would wear tight-fitting clothing, and you could just see I had a really unnatural-looking belly. I hated it.

“My boobs felt misshapen, and one was much bigger than the other.

“And where I had lost weight on Mounjaro – the skin around my neck was like a turkey.

“It was all saggy, and I hated my jowls.

“I just felt old and unattractive.”

Victoria, from Kent, said people used to stare at her stomach and even make comments.

She said: “I’ve been called ‘flabby belly’ online.

“People would say I looked more like 50.

“My side profile would show my sagging neck, and people would point it out.

“As much as my daughter would joke, she would also call me ‘jelly belly’ and poke my stomach.

“I’d been on Mounjaro for ages and eating really healthily, so I felt fantastic on the inside.

“But on the outside, my confidence was at an all-time low.”

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After speaking to friends and getting recommendations, Victoria found Revitalize in Turkey.

She spoke to the clinic and was told about a £10,000 ‘mummy makeover’.

The mum booked in for surgery and flew out just 10 days later.

She said: “Weirdly enough, I didn’t feel anxious at all about going in.

“I was just so excited.

“I was already staying at the villa with loads of people who’d already had surgery and were recovering.

“They were all looking great already, so I wasn’t nervous.

“I was a bit more stressed going into having my face done because obviously that’s my face, and if that goes wrong, then I’m stuck with it.

“But I’d seen other people’s results, which looked great.”

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DAY OF THE SURGERY

Victoria’s first surgery was for her tummy tuck, liposuction and breast lift.

She said: “I woke up feeling very groggy, and the pain in my stomach was unreal.

“It’d hurt even more when I moved or coughed.

“I was in and out of sleep for a while, so I was a bit confused at times, but the next day they encouraged me to get up and see if I could start walking.

“I didn’t feel any pain in my boobs whatsoever – it was all in my belly.

“I had drains in to collect any blood that was still coming out, and then they showed me a bit of my stomach that they cut away.

“It looked like a slab of fatty pork – I asked them to bin it!”

Five days later, she was taken in for the second surgery for her face and neck lift.

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She said: “Waking up, my face felt really painful and tight.

“I had massive quilting stitches all over my face and neck, which looked like bicycle tyre tracks.

“I was told they were to help direct the blood flow and drain any excess, but they were really uncomfortable and itchy.

“The first 24 hours were really painful, but then after that it eased off and just felt tight and numb.”

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SURGERY RECOVERY

Victoria had a check-up two days later and was allowed to go home five days later.

She said: “I was really nervous to see the results of my facelift as I had to keep the support on for four weeks, as well as the compression garments on my abdomen.

“I also had to keep my boobs strapped for six weeks.

“But once I could take them off, I was over the moon.

“My tummy had gone down and was so flat.

“My boobs looked great, and my face even better.

“I was like, wow, this is my body now!”

The mummy makeover would have cost £10,000 – but Tracy paid a discounted rate.

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BOOSTED CONFIDENCE

She is overjoyed with her new look, and her friends and family have been “super supportive”.

Victoria said: “They just can’t believe how great I look.

“I went to a baby shower a couple of weeks ago, where I hadn’t seen some of the girls there for a long time.

“And one of them walked straight past me, didn’t even realise it was me, and then she was like, ‘Oh my god, look at you now – the glow-up is real.’

“Now I can wear little belly tops, cocktail dresses, tight clothing, and not feel self-conscious anymore.

“I’m super happy.

“There is a lot of pressure for you to be perfect.

“Of course, nobody can be, but this is my idea of perfect to me.”

In May, Victoria re-visited the clinic to have laser eye surgery and turkey teeth fitted.

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She said: “I had 20 porcelain crowns and my eyes done.

“My vision is incredible, and my teeth are perfect.

“My face looks lovely.”

MORE SURGERY

Victoria plans on visiting for the final time in September to have breast implants and a labiaplasty.

She said: “I was supposed to have breast implants when I was there in March, but they said doing that, as well as a lift, was a no-go.

“My blood count was too low when I went for blood tests, so the surgeon said he couldn’t do my implants at the same time.

Now I can wear little belly tops, cocktail dresses, tight clothing, and not feel self-conscious anymore

Victoria Vigors

“Now I’ve given my boobs some time to rest – then I’ll be going back.

“I’m super excited for my labiaplasty.

“After having two children, one of my labia appears bigger than the other one.

“I want it to be more levelled out and neat.

“Now, my face is done, my body looks great, it is just those final things.”

A MUM halved her weight without the help of fat jabs and now men are racing to take her out.

Laura Taylor was a heavy size 24 before she embarked on her weight loss journey in March 2024, after struggling with her weight since she was a teenager.

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The mum claims fellas would flee dates because ‘they didn’t realise’ her size, but now blokes try to woo her with drinks.

The 35-year-old says the battle with her weight began when she was bullied for being ‘fat’ and branded ‘tree trunk legs’ by cruel bullies at high school.

As a result, the mum-of-five didn’t wear a skirt for decades and was reluctant to leave the house due to her size 24 figure.

The self-conscious cleaning business owner would only share pictures of her face, not of her body, on her dating profiles.

Laura says when she did meet up for dates, men would sheepishly admit they ‘didn’t realise how big she was’ before slinking off just an hour after meeting her.

After trying and failing to lose the weight naturally, Laura underwent a ‘life-changing’ gastric sleeve operation in Turkey in March 2024.

Since then, she has switched her old diet of McDonald’s breakfasts, pub lunches, takeaway dinners, and five cans of Coca-Cola per day for protein coffees, fruit and chicken salads.

As a result, Laura has shed a whopping 10 stone in 16 months, initially tipping the scales at 20st 1lb and dropping down to 9st 13lbs and a slinky size eight.

Following her incredible weight loss, Laura says men now race to the bar to buy her drinks – and she’s finally confident enough to share full body images on her dating profile.

Laura, from Barnsley, South Yorkshire, said: “When men tell me that I look beautiful and sexy because I’ve lost all of my weight I do feel it.

“When I was really big I used to go on dates and then an hour later they would say that they had to go and then I’d get blocked.

“They used to say that they didn’t realise how big I was or that my pictures looked different because they couldn’t see my body.

“I never used to show my body [on my dating profile], I just used to show my face.

“I include pictures of my body now. All of my profile pictures are of my full body because I feel more confident in myself now I’ve lost weight.

“I think I look a lot better, but I think I still have the mindset of when I was fat.

“I go out and I’ve got men coming up to me asking to buy me a drink and I’m like ‘what do you see in me really?’ Sometimes it’s quite hard to take in.”

Problems with Laura’s weight first began when she received cruel comments from bullies at high school.

Laura said: “I’ve had an issue with my weight all my life, really since I was a teenager.

“I got a lot of bullying at school because when I used to wear skirts I’d get called ‘tree trunk legs’ and fat.

“After a couple times of wearing skirts I never wore them again.

“I never wanted to go to school with a skirt on because I used to get called that all the time.

“Food was a comfort for me. I used to sit at home and eat food because I got bullied and I felt like nobody fancied me.”

After struggling with her weight since she was a teen, Laura decided to commit to having gastric sleeve surgery.

Laura said: “I went to the doctors and asked to be put on the waiting list for a gastric sleeve in the UK but they told me I wasn’t big enough.

“I looked at the prices in the UK but it was £10,500 and I didn’t have the money.

“When I was pricing it up it was so much cheaper in Turkey than it was over here.

“It was £2,400 and then the flights were £600, so about £3,000 in total.

“The NHS was a six-year waiting list and I couldn’t wait that long because I didn’t leave the house.

“I didn’t see my friends or anything like that because they were all quite skinny and I was the fat one of the bunch.”

Since having the £3,000 op, Laura says she gets told she looks younger and some of her friends don’t even recognise her when they see her in the street.

Laura said: “I get told I look younger because I have lost a lot of weight in my face.

“I feel good in myself and people say that I look amazing.

“I do need to start taking those compliments in because I’ve been fat all of my life it’s hard for me to say I do actually look good.

“A lot of friends haven’t seen me in the past 18 months and when I’ve been out they’ve walked past me.

“I’ve had to tap them on the shoulder and say ‘do you not recognise me?’.”

Laura says she now finally has the confidence to wear skirts and dresses again and will even be wearing a bikini when she goes on holiday in August.

Laura said: “I never used to wear the stuff I wear now, there’s no way I would be putting on a dress on above my knees.

“I don’t go out in jeans now, I only wear skirts or dresses.”

Laura says the operation ‘saved her life’ and has had a positive impact on her socially.

Laura said: “I’ve always been the one [in my friend group] that’s sat in the corner and not really danced because I didn’t want to.

“I’m on the dance floor before anyone else now because I’ve got so much energy I want to dance.

“The operation saved my life. I’d still be sat in the house now not going out, so it has changed my life completely.”

Here’s what Laura would eat in a day.

TYPICAL FOOD DIARY BEFORE WEIGHTLOSS

Breakfast – McDonalds breakfast

Lunch – Pub lunch mixed grill or English breakfast

Dinner – Takeaway or chips and sausages

Snacks – Chocolate, sweets, crisps and five cans of Coca-Cola per day

TYPICAL FOOD DIARY AFTER WEIGHTLOSS

Breakfast – Protein coffee

Lunch – None

Dinner – Chicken salad, chilli or chicken and rice

Snacks – Apples, cheese strings, decaf coffee

The 5 best exercises to lose weight

By Lucy Gornall, personal trainer and health journalist

EXERCISE can be intimidating and hard to devote yourself to. So how do you find the right workout for you?

As a PT and fitness journalist, I’ve tried everything.

I’ve taken part in endless fitness competitions, marathons and I maintain a regime of runs, strength training and Pilates.

Fitness is so entrenched in my life, I stick to it even at Christmas!

The key is finding an activity you love that can become a habit.

My top five forms of exercise, especially if you’re trying to lose weight, are:

1. Walking
2. Running
3. Pilates
4. High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
5. Strength training

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EXPERTS have issued an urgent warning over popular slushy drinks that could leave children unconscious.

Parents giving the icy shakes to kids as a cooling summer treat were told they may contain high amounts of a sweet syrup that’s dangerous to young children.

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Brightly coloured slushies are a mainstay at cinemas, corner shops and theme parks – especially as temperatures ramp up.

But the sweet icy drinks often contain glycerol, a sugar substitute that gives slushies their signature, semi-frozen texture.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has now updated its guidance to state that slush ice drinks containing glycerol are not suitable for children under seven.

It follows several incidents involving slushy drinks in recent months.

A two-year-old girl was left listless and grey and “20 minutes from death” after having a slushy drink at a neighbour’s birthday party, according to her gran.

And two young boys became violently ill after slurping on slushies as a half term treat.

Earlier this year, the brightly-coloured drinks — which are designed to appeal to children — were linked to the hospitalisation of 21 children aged two to seven.

Members of the food watchdog’s board called for the change after reviewing evidence on the risk of glycerol to young children’s health.

UK guidance previously stated that that slush ice drinks with glycerol are not recommended for children under four due to the risk of glycerol intoxication, and that those under 11 should have no more than one.

Now, the FSA warned parents not to give the drinks to children under seven.

FSA chair Professor Susan Jebb: “In the warm weather, children may be more likely to consume slush ice drinks containing glycerol, so it’s important that parents and carers are aware of the risks.

“As a precaution, the FSA is recommending that children under seven do not consume slush ice drinks containing glycerol.”

Slush ice drinks can contain glycerol –  also called E422 or glycerine on some labels – as a substitute for sugar to prevent them from freezing solid.

The sugar substitute is also found in some other foods, but at much lower quantities than in slush ice drinks. 

Consumed at high levels, glycerol can cause very low blood sugar levels and unconsciousness in young children – also known as glycerol intoxication syndrome.

Dr Duane Mellor, registered dietitian and senior lecturer at Aston Medical School in Birmingham, previously told Sun Health why children – who are smaller than adults – are more at risk of drinking dangerous amounts.

“If too much glycerol is consumed too quickly and in too large a volume, it can potentially change the blood concentration,” Dr Mellor said.

“This can then affect the amount of fluid around the brain, leading to symptoms including confusion, dizziness, nausea and even, on occasion, loss of consciousness.”

Pharmacist Abbas Kanani, from Chemist Click, told Sun Health: “Glycerol may cause side effects such as nausea, gastrointestinal discomfort, dizziness, and headaches.

“In the case of slush-ice drinks, the dangers are typically associated with very high levels of exposure and may lead to glycerol intoxication, which could cause hypoglycaemia, shock and loss of consciousness.

“The Food Standards Agency state that there are concerns about its acute effects on young children when consumed in large amounts over a short period, leaving them vulnerable to the symptoms listed above.

“Whilst symptoms are usually mild, young children may suffer from headaches and sickness caused by exposure to glycerol.”

According to the FSA, just one 350ml drink with the highest levels of glycerol could potentially cause a problem for a four-year-old.

In youngsters aged five to ten, one and a half of these drinks can have dangerous effects, if consumed quickly.

‘Protect children’

FSA board members previously conducted a risk assessment of slushy ice drinks in 2023, “which was based on average body weight” estimates for children.

This time, the food watchdog took a more cautious approach, taking into account that some children might have a lower than average body weight for their age.

“The assessment incorporated information from recent glycerol intoxication incidents and assessed the impact of one serving of slush ice drink (350ml with 50,000mg/L glycerol) on children with a lower-than-average body weight for their age,” the FSA wrote.

“As children’s weights vary, body weight has been converted to age to provide more practical advice for parents and businesses.”

The updated advice applies to ready-to-drink slush ice drinks with glycerol in pouches and home kits containing glycerol slush concentrates.

The FSA advised businesses selling slushies to add the minimum amount of glycerol needed to achieve the desired texture.

It also called on businesses to share how much glycerol was being added to drinks and foods.

Prof Jebb said: “We expect industry to share data on the quantity of glycerol in their products to inform our future work.

“Meanwhile, there are immediate actions they can take that can help protect children and reduce the risk from these products.

“For example, retailers should limit cup sizes and should not offer free refill promotions to children under 10.”

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Arla Agnew, two, was left falling in and out of consciousness after enjoying the popular frozen treat at a neighbour’s birthday party.

Arla’s gran, Stacey, 39, told The Scottish Sun that they youngster became “limp and lifeless” in the hours after consuming the drink and was rushed to hospital, where it was found her blood sugar levels were dangerously low.

“The doctor said to us if we had been another 20 minutes it could have been so different. We were absolutely devastated,” the gran added.

Meanwhile, mum Roxy Wallis, 36, said her two sons fell violently ill minutes after drinking slushies.

“My middle child felt sick, dizzy, and incredibly pale. By the time we reached the ticket machine, he had vomited everywhere.

“At this point, my oldest son looked pale and felt sick but wasn’t as bad – he was a bit bigger than his brother.”

Abbas shared advice for parents in the event that their child suffers a reaction after drinking a slushy.

“If you suspect intoxication from a slushie drink and your child is experiencing any symptoms, even if they are mild, seek immediate medical attention.

“This is important so that your child can be assessed and any serious reactions can be ruled out.”

A PROFESSIONAL nanny has revealed the Aldi kids’ food she would never give her clients’ children.

Emily, who works with families all over the world, claimed that she would personally avoid “pouches and meal trays” that you can pick up in supermarkets. 

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Over recent years, numerous companies have found success in convincing parents that feeding a baby with a quick and convenient processed pouch is easier and also nutritious.

However, there have been growing concerns over whether they are nutritionally sufficient and if they hinder a varied diet.

On her @thenosugarcoatnanny account, Emily, who is trained as a prestigious Norland nanny, held up two items from Aldi’s Organia Mamia range, which are designed for children.

Speaking of their “super cheap” 65p apples, parsnips and carrots pouch (intended for ages four months and above) and their 95p chicken and vegetable cous cous (designed for 12 months and older), she said: “These are products that I do not recommend to parents.”

PANORAMA INVESTIGATION

Emily cited an investigation by BBC Panorama, which found that six leading UK brands did not meet their key nutritional needs for baby food pouches.

The NHS website has published advice on commercial baby food, and said parents should not rely on shop-bought pouches as everyday meals.

Some popular baby food pouches are labelled as being “perfectly balanced for growing babies” or “packed with goodness”.

Emily added: “Lots of you know about the Panorama documentary that came out about pouches and food. 

“I think if you haven’t watched it as a parent, definitely go and watch it.”

The study followed the World Health Organisation stating that it is “critical” that infants and toddlers get good nutrition in the first three years of life.

Babies need food that is “pure, varied, minimally seasoned and nutrient-dense.“

Despite this, by the age of two to five, the average UK toddler has been found to get 61 per cent of their energy from ultra-processed foods, according to a 2022 study.

IRON LEVELS

Emily’s next gripe was with the iron levels in baby meals, and claimed that “a baby needs 7.8 mg a day.”

In the Panorama documentary, Ella’s Kitchen spag bol had just 0.7mg of iron, while Aldi’s Bangers and Mash contained 0.5mg of iron and a Lidl meal had about 0.4mg.

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Emily claimed: “Aldi’s products were tested, and their iron levels in them were around 0.5 mg. 

“So, if you give your child, let’s say, this for breakfast, this for lunch, and a similar one for dinner, your child’s, getting 1.5 milligrams of iron a day? 

“That’s so incredibly low. 

“And obviously, children need iron to grow their blood cells.

“It’s obviously to help with their oxygen and the flow around their body.

“So, that’s something to really, really consider when thinking of these.”

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Emily shared how she wasn’t advising parents to avoid them completely, and said they are “absolutely fine” for days out if you’ve not made anything or forgotten a snack.

She explained: “But what I don’t want parents to be doing is stocking their cupboards full of these sorts of things, and then that’s your go-to.”

A spokesperson for Aldi said: “Our range of products can help parents and carers to support a child’s weaning journey by introducing a wide variety of food and flavours as part of a varied diet.

“Any sugar in them is naturally occurring and would be the same in a fruit puree made at home.”

NHS GUIDANCE

The NHS Start For Life website states that parents should wait until their baby is around six months old before feeding them solid foods, even if labels on pouches say the products are suitable from four months.

Experts say the products should only be used sparingly, and not as replacements for homemade meals.

They also advised they can cause children health problems if used as their main source of nutrition.

The six brands involved in the investigation were Ella’s Kitchen, Heinz, Piccolo, Little Freddie, Aldi and Lidl, who all said their products were intended to be used as a complementary part of a child’s varied weaning diet.

SUPERMARKET shoppers love reaching for a Pizza Express pizza – but can you find an own-brand one that’s just as good?

They can be pricey when compared to supermarket own brands.

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At the moment a Margherita will set you back between £4.35 – £6.00 depending on where you buy it.

Natasha Harding tried six supermarket brands and compared them to Pizza Express Margherita pizza – and rated them all out of 30.

Pizza Express Margherita Pizza

£4.35 (when bought with Nectar), Sainsbury’s

Per 100g: calories, 263 fat, 8.7g sugar, 3.4g salt 0.93g

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If the secret to a good pizza is in the dough, then Pizza Express hits the spot.

The base cooked to perfection and it was a good size for two people.

There was a good amount of topping and it cooked evenly in about 12 minutes.

However, there are other pizzas that taste just as good for a fraction of the cost.

Taste: 8/10
Value: 5/10
Overall rating: 6/10
Out of 30: 19

Carlos Stonebaked Pizza

£1.99, Aldi, Aldi

Per 100g: calories, 308 fat, 10.2g sugar, 4g salt 1.09g

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It cooked nicely in 12 minutes and was big enough to feed four people.

The base was deliciously crispy and the cheese and tomato topping tasted authentically Italian.

I haven’t tried this flavour from Aldi before, but absolutely will in the future – my winner – and less than half the price of Pizza Express, that’s dinner sorted.

Taste: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Overall rating: 10/10
Out of 30: 30

Cheese & Tomato Pizza

£1.90, Sainsbury’s

Per 100g: calories, 298 fat, 9g sugar, 2.6g salt 0.76g

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Good value and a perfect size for two.

I wasn’t so keen on this one as I thought it was a bit bland and there wasn’t enough cheese to tempt my tastebuds.

However, my daughter and her friend loved it and she’s asked if she can have it for tea regularly.

At that price, I’m happy to oblige – and if I join her, I’ll add extra cheese on my half.

Taste: 8/10
Value: 10/10
Overall rating: 7/10
Out of 30: 25

Stonebaked Margherita Pizza

£2.58, Asda

Per 100g: calories, 238 fat, 7.7g sugar, 3.9g salt 1.09g

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It cooked well in just over 12 minutes and the generous size means it would satisfy four people, especially if you add a couple of sides.

The topping was plentiful and the fact that you’re getting a lot of pizza for your money means that this is a good staple for a family if you’re unsure what to serve up for dinner.

Taste: 9/10
Value: 7/10
Overall rating: 8/10
Out of 30: 24

Chef Select, Stonebaked Margherita Pizza

£1.99, Lidl

Per 100g: calories, 254 fat, 8.6g sugar, 2.3g salt 1.08g

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Another well priced pizza but I wasn’t so keen on the taste.

The tomato had an intense, slightly synthetic taste that I couldn’t get away from.

The cheese was generous and tasted great – and it cooked to perfection.

If you like a stronger taste sensation, it might be one for you but it’s not one I’d be keen to buy again.

Taste: 6/10
Value: 10/10
Overall rating: 7/10
Out of 30: 23

Classic Margherita

£3.10, Tesco

Per 100g: calories, 259 fat, 7g sugar, 2.8g salt 0.75g

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It cooked nicely in just over ten minutes and looked very appealing once it was ready.

It was generously sized and the base was just the right consistency of being thick enough but crispy too.

It was oh so cheesy which hit the spot for me – I’d definitely buy it again if I needed a cheese fix.

Taste: 8/10
Value: 7/10
Overall rating: 8/10
Out of 30: 23

Essential Cheese & Tomato Pizza

£2.75, Waitrose

Per 100g: calories, 260 fat, 8g sugar, 4.6g salt .75g

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I felt a bit let down by Waitrose offering as the Essential range is fantastic.

The base was a bit thin, and it could have done with some extra toppings as it felt a bit lacklustre.

If I was to buy it again, it would be as a base to add some extra ingredients to.

Taste: 6/10
Value: 6/10
Overall rating: 6/10
Out of 30: 18

EVERYONE’S talking about fat jabs – the ‘miracle’ injections trimming inches off waistlines, and helping turn the tide on the obesity epidemic.

But what if there was an even easier – and cheaper – way than Ozempic-like injections, Wegovy and Mounjaro?

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Science sits still for no slimmer and already, the next big thing is looming large on the horizon – and it could be as simple as popping a pill.

Slimming tablets have been around for decades, but now scientists want to harness the new momentum in obesity medicine – and use the billions being made from the jabs – to bring pills back with a bang.

Professor Jason Halford, of the European Association for the Study of Obesity, tells Sun Health: “I think pills will eventually replace injections.

“People don’t particularly like them and they’re a bit afraid of injecting themselves.

“You’ve got to have the device, the needle, the sharps bin, it’s got to be refrigerated, there are all sorts of challenges.

“If you can move it all to a tablet you can increase acceptance and hopefully it will be cheaper and become more widely available.”

Professor Richard Donnelly, editor of the medical journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, and clinical adviser at online weight loss clinic Juniper, agrees.

“Thirty years ago weight loss tablets had a terrible reputation and nobody really wanted to prescribe them,” he adds.

“They had rare but severe side effects and weren’t particularly effective.

“Now there is a whole flood of development and a lot to be optimistic about.

“There is a big hope that developing pills will improve accessibility and cost less.”

There are several pills in development – some stimulate the same hormones as jabs to make us feel full, while others mimic bariatric surgery.

The end goal is the same – to do what willpower alone fails to achieve and stop us eating so much.

While some are yet to even be trialled in humans, one has already been submitted for approval in the US, meaning they could be available before the end of the year.

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The most advanced pills being made are by the same companies behind the fat jabs.

Novo Nordisk, creator of Wegovy and Ozempic, has developed a tablet version of semaglutide, the active drug in those injections.

It applied for approval from the US Food and Drugs Administration last month.

Trials showed patients lost an average of 15 per cent of their bodyweight over 17 months on a 50mg daily dose, compared with eight per cent over 12 months on Wegovy.

Participants were three times more likely to achieve “meaningful” weight loss when they were taking the pill, compared to those not taking the tablet.

Rival company Eli Lilly, which makes Mounjaro (tirzepatide) announced the results of its pill orforglipron in April.

The two drugs both work by stimulating GLP-1 hormones that make you feel full.

Patients taking 36mg of orforglipron lost eight per cent of their bodyweight in 10 months, equating to 1st 2lbs from an average starting weight of 14st 3lbs – while participants taking a placebo lost just 3lbs.

It compares with 15 per cent weight loss in a year on Mounjaro.

Lilly said their pill “could be readily manufactured and launched at scale for use around the world”.

But injections and pills have not been compared head-to-head yet.
Studies are ongoing and taking the science behind these game-changing jabs and applying it to tablets, does not guarantee success.

Pfizer abandoned the development of its drug lotiglipron in 2023 when a trial indicated potential liver damage as a side effect.

Drugs tend to be more easily absorbed by the body when they are injected directly into the bloodstream, compared to being digested through the gut.

And that’s another key consideration – what the potential side effects of these new pills could be.

Unpleasant side effects were the downfall of the old generation of slimming pills.

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The NHS has prescribed a pill called orlistat for years, dishing out £12million worth of it in England last year.

It works by preventing the gut from absorbing fat from food – but it means fat must be passed out in poo instead of digested.

This can lead to flatulence, more regular bowel movements and diarrhoea.

It can also cause bladder pains and breathing troubles – and weight loss doesn’t match up to the jabs.

About eight in 10 patients suffer at least one side effect when using injections, most commonly tummy upset, according to trials.

Early data suggests pills might have similar rates.

Around six per cent of people taking any of Lilly or Novo Nordisk’s pills or injections quit the medicines because of side effects.

Dr Leyla Hannbeck, of the Independent Pharmacies Association, says: “The old generation drugs tended to be uncomfortable for a lot of people whereas these new ones are much more effective.

“All medicines will have side effects but the fact that the results are much better now means people are more willing to endure them.”
Prof Donnelly said he still does not expect new tablets to be as strong as jabs, adding: “I don’t think anybody believes these will cause the same level of weight loss that you might be reporting with Mounjaro.

“The flipside of that is that major weight loss might not all be good.

“Some of that might be muscle and if you lose 30 per cent of your body weight that is a fairly major transformation.

“Having an oral agent that reduces your weight by, say, 10 or 15 per cent, might actually be more sustainable, better tolerated and medically safer in some respects.”

While the GLP-1 tablets are likely to be first to market, inventors are also working on a daily pill that mimics the effects of gastric bypass surgery.

‘GASTRIC BYPASS’ PILL

US company Syntis Bio’s offering, named Synt-101 creates a 24-hour lining in the gut that means food cannot be absorbed in the top six inches of the small intestine.

Rather, digestion is redirected to the lower areas of the gut, where hormones that tell the brain we are full, are triggered faster.

Working in a similar vein to surgery, it means patients feel fuller faster – and the lining is passed when the patient goes to the loo the next day.

Synt-101 has passed its first human safety tests and is expected to enter a full-scale clinical trial next year.

Another pill in development, Sirona, is made by UK-based Oxford Medical Products, and contains a “dual polymer hydrogel” that expands in the stomach when it comes into contact with water.

It works like a gastric balloon, filling the patient’s tummy making them feel full for hours, but is passed in their stools “several days” later.

Early data from an NHS trial found patients lost 10 to 12 per cent in a year of treatment and there were no serious side effects.

Experts believe weight loss pills will serve a variety of purposes – as a follow-on treatment after stopping fat jabs, as an option for those who can’t or don’t want to use jabs and for people with less severe obesity, and less weight to lose.

There are hopes they will be less toxic than injections, which often cause side effects like stomach aches, vomiting or diarrhoea.

Weight regain after treatment is also an emerging issue with the jabs, which can currently only be prescribed for up to two years in the UK.

Rahul Dhanda, chief executive of Syntis Bio, said: “Patients don’t want to be stuck on a revolving door of injections and their side effects; they want to be on a manageable and sustainable weight loss path.

“Oral drugs that are simple, tolerable and safe will be the rational choice for maintenance therapy.”

A BEAUTY enthusiast has revealed “the best hot girl holiday hack” that will ensure you never feel floated in a bikini again.

So if you’re lucky enough to be jetting aboard any time soon and want to feel confident in your swimwear this summer, you’ve come to the right place and will need to take notes.

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And don’t worry if your purse is feeling tighter than ever and you’ve already splashed the cash on a new beach bag and a posh pair of sandals, as this trick is incredibly purse-friendly.

In fact, it will work out at just 44p a time – yes, you heard that correctly. 

Posting on social media, Julia, who is on a mission to “glow up” her life, revealed the key to staying slender whilst abroad. 

The trainee nutritionist said: “Let me give you the best holiday bloating hot girl tip – I used to be that girl who’d go on holiday and be scared to eat all the food that I want, enjoy my time, because I’d constantly feel bloated.

“I just wouldn’t want to be in my bikini – the bloating would get so bad and uncomfortable because I was eating foods my body wasn’t used to.

“And I discovered the best hot girl holiday hack ever that means I can go away, feel comfortable in my bikini, not bloat, enjoy all the food and just have a great time.”

Julia explained that in order to put bloating at bay, she swears by the Pure Encapsulations Digestive Enzymes – supplements containing enzymes involved in the digestion of protein, carbohydrate, fat, fibre, and lactose.

Julia’s favourite Digestive Enzymes contain a high-strength, broad-spectrum mixture of vegetarian digestive enzymes that facilitate the normal breakdown of proteins and tripeptides. 

According to the product description, these supplements contain alpha-galactosidase that promotes the breakdown of certain complex carbohydrates, such as raffinose and stachyose, found in some legumes, vegetables, and grains.

In turn, this helps “to relieve occasional bloating or gas.”

A pack of 30 capsules will cost you £13.49, working out at just 44p per tablet. 

Clearly a huge fan of the supplements, the content creator continued: “I cannot tell you how much I love Digestive Enzymes – magic pill, take them 15 minutes before you eat any meal and these help you break down food your body’s not used to eating.

Omg been looking for a solution for this for years

TikTok user

“I can have a pizza and not bloat when I take Digestive Enzymes – trust me, this is worth your investment.” 

The TikTok clip, which was posted under the username @juliaglowguide, has clearly left many open-mouthed, as in just three days, it has quickly racked up 235,700 views. 

One person said: “I’ve never heard of these! Thank you.” 

Another added: “Omg been looking for a solution for this for years.” 

Meanwhile, one woman beamed: “They’re amazing, only thing that’s worked for me.” 

Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club

WHY do we have so many awareness days, weeks and months? Some of them seem utterly ridiculous. The health related ones, though, are a good idea. 

It is National Smile Month. One in three adults have tooth decay, so this campaign promotes eating less sugar and processed food, drinking more water and visiting the dentist.

And I’ve put some products to the test to help you smile . . .  

MOUTHWASH 

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IF ever there was a man who says “teeth” it is TV presenter Rylan Clark – his are gleaming! And he has teamed up with British oral care brand Waken. 

I am not always keen on products pushed by celebs, but Rylan believes in Waken and has invested in it. I like it too. I love their whitening toothpaste and the Waken Advanced Care Mouthwash. 

It is made with natural peppermint, strengthens enamel with fluoride, and comes in a recycled bottle. This is alcohol free and a 500ml bottle costs £5.  

The company has just started selling in major supermarkets. See wakencare.com 

CHEWING GUM 

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I CHEW so much gum I could put a cow to shame – but not all gums are good for you thanks to the sweeteners, sugar and chemicals in them. 

But some do have health benefits. 

Peppersmith is one such example. It contains the plant-based sweetener xylitol and is approved by the Oral Health Foundation. 

Chewing sugar-free gum with xylitol after meals, is scientifically proven to reduce cavities, neutralise harmful acids, and keep breath fresh. 

Xylitol is a natural sugar alternative that bacteria cannot digest, meaning it actively fights tooth decay. 

It also helps to strengthen enamel – unlike sugary mints and gum that mask bad breath and contribute to cavities. 

The gum comes in mint, lemon and strawberry flavours. I wasn’t keen on the fruity ones – but the mint is great and is £1.35 for 15g at Sainsbury’s. 

See peppersmith.co.uk. 

TOOTHPASTE 

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SALT toothpaste made by Weleda has been around for more than 100 years, but has soared into the brand’s list of bestsellers in the last two years. 

That’s because it is a chemical-free, eco-friendly toothpaste popular with those looking to avoid additives – there are no detergents, bleaches, foam boosters or optical brighteners in the product. 

No fluoride either – some people are worried that too much can lead to dental fluorosis or skeletal fluorosis, which can damage bones and joints. While rare, fluorosis is a factor. 

This toothpaste uses sodium bicarbonate, which is a salt that breaks down to form sodium and bicarbonate in water. This helps to promote healing in the mouth, and to ease ulcers, cuts and sore patches. 

It is totally free from microplastics too. It tastes like bicarbonate of soda but my mouth felt really fresh after using. I liked it. It’s priced at £5.95 for 75ml. 

See weleda.co.uk. 

DOES it feel like you’ve tried everything in your quest to lose those final pounds?

While the world is obsessed with Ozempic-like fat jabs, not everyone wants to resort to injecting drugs to shed weight. But what’s the answer when all the fad diets have failed?

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As a nutritionist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen it all from quick fixes to restrictive plans that rarely deliver long-lasting results. I’m not alone – most professionals in this space would agree that rigid diets don’t work long-term.

But here’s what does…. Rethinking your approach to weight loss and health by focusing on sustainable habits known as diet ‘anchors’.

Anchors are a common concept that many wellness experts (myself included) use with our clients. Think of them as an antidote to fad diets that don’t hold up over time. 

Like the name suggests, these fundamental vows help keep you grounded and consistent. They are easy to weave into your daily routine, making them sustainable, unlike rigid rules that come with most diets. They become so ingrained that they become natural, which is the key to success.

Many of my clients come in thinking they need to overhaul their diet overnight, but when it comes to health, it’s actually the small, steady shifts that have the biggest impact. 

So if you’re fed up of complicated calorie counting, are struggling with flagging energy levels or can’t seem to stick to the new gym routine, try implementing these tried and tested non-negotiable rules to flip the weight loss switch… 

1. BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS

It may be the first thing you eat, but breakfast sets the tone for the whole day. The food choices you make have an impact on your blood sugar levels.

Slurping a bowl of milky cereal or a chowing a syrupy stack of pancakes might hit your sweet spot, but sugary breakfasts send your blood sugar levels on a rollercoaster.

What this means, is that after they spike your blood sugar, you soon experience a crash. It results in a mid-morning energy dip and cravings for the biscuit tin come 10am.

Make sure your breakfast choices lean more towards savoury, protein-rich meals to feel fuller for longer with no nasty blood glucose crashes. 

Protein takes more energy to digest than fat or carbohydrates, which means it slightly increases calorie burn, whilst keeping you feeling fuller for longer.

Panfried mushrooms with melted cheese on toast, anchovy and tomato bruschetta or eggs cooked shakshuka style are a protein-fuelled start to the day.

But if you’re limited on time, or on-the-go, try:

• Boil a couple of eggs the night before and serve with salad leaves or wholemeal toast. Make a veggie frittata which can be eaten cold.
• Whizz together a bowl of fruity overnight oats. Pop some oats in a mason jar and cover with milk. In the morning, add a sprinkling of seeds (which are high in plant-based protein), your favourite fruit and a drizzle of honey. 
• Combine plain Greek yoghurt with berries and top with mixed nuts or chia seeds. 
• Nibble a protein bar with a piece of low-sugar fruit such as an apple or pear.

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2. COLOUR, NOT QUANTITY 

Variety is the spice of life, so if you’re eating the same foods day after day you’ll hit a boredom wall and risk nutritional deficiencies. 

To avoid this food rut, rotate the colours on your plate, aiming for a total of nine different shades every day. 

This is easier than it sounds, and the simplest way is to aim for three different vegetables at each meal. 

For example, sneak diced courgette and colourful peppers into bolognese sauces, make use of frozen bagged vegetables into casseroles and soups and add a side salad to your lunch. 

When you lose inspiration, find new recipes on social media; it’s saturated with accounts showing how to make meals that hit all the spots; healthy, delicious, cheap and quick.

Try doubling up on everything you make for a week or two, so that you can freeze portions. That way you always have a healthy meal when you’re in a hurry.

3. UP AND OUT

Kicking back on the sofa and flicking on Netflix might be your current go-to after dinner, but gentle exercise after eating is a science-backed no-brainer weight loss hack that us nutritionists swear by. 

A short walk within a 60-minute window of finishing your meal can help with weight loss as well as ward off disease. It makes all the difference in how your body absorbs carbohydrates. 

A 2023 study published in the Journal of Sports Medicine showed that 20 minutes of walking straight after eating helped muscle cells use glucose more efficiently from the bloodstream which reduces insulin demand and boosts weight loss. 

No time to walk, or stuck at the house? Pace up and down the stairs – set a goal and see if you can increase how many flights you can do over time – or get some chores done around the house.

4. SPICE AND NICE

Lots of us have to make a conscious effort to cook things from scratch. It’s easier to grab ready-to-eat meals for the family, but this is certainly not the best way to lose weight.

If there’s one thing you can do to liven up meals that you’re cooking from scratch – and keep your diet on track – it’s adding flavour. So, include at least one herb or spice at each meal. 

From adding blood-sugar balancing cinnamon to porridge, topping green smoothies with anti-inflammatory golden turmeric and being extra liberal with herbs like sage, basil and parsley in pasta sauces, getting in the habit of seasoning will help to elevate your meals both in taste and nutrition. 

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You can use dried herbs and spices or buy fresh. To keep costs down and wastage low, you can now buy pre-chopped herbs, as well as onions and garlic, in the frozen section.

Want to take it one step further? Create your own little herb garden on a sunny windowsill. Basil, thyme and mint are all super-easy varieties to grow at home. 

5. SELF-WORTH REIGNS

Sustaining motivation to workout and eat well can be difficult at the best of times, but anchoring your thoughts to your goals is the best way to keep your get-up-and-go firing. Keep in mind that success is about consistency, and it’s those small wins that add up over time.

Mantras can help to reinforce your diet choices, so put pen to paper and make up a few that resonate with your goals. 

Some of my personal favourites include “your choices today build results tomorrow”, and “nothing changes unless you change it”.

Self-worth can often shatter on fad diets, but with diet anchors you feel shaped by your positive health choices, so when you do smash one of your micro goals, be kind to yourself.

Even something simple like getting your nails done, or pampering yourself with a candlelit bath, can help to keep motivation high. And if you do fall off the wagon? Don’t beat yourself up for it, every day is a new day with new possibilities to better your health. 

6. PLATE ART

Learning to become meticulous about how you organise your plate is a simple yet powerful anchor that can help to speed up weight loss, and keep those stubborn pounds off.

To build the perfect plate, it’s important to re-think the way you serve your food; Fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and peppers as these are high in fibre and contain a hefty dose of nutrients.

Next, dedicate one quarter to protein – this includes foods like eggs, poultry, red meat or tofu to help support muscle health and promote fullness.

Finally, split the remaining quarter between healthy fats, (including avocado, nuts, and seeds), along with complex carbohydrates such as brown rice, wholemeal pasta or sweet potato as these help to sustain energy whilst providing essential nutrients.

The order in which you eat your food can also make a difference to weight loss – it’s a concept called ‘food sequencing’ and can help to improve your body’s insulin response to food.

To practice food sequencing, eat your non-starchy veg first, followed by your protein and healthy fat sources. Save your carbs until last to help minimise blood sugar spikes and aid fullness. 

Louise Pyne is a registered nutritionist. Find her at www.louisepynenutrition.com and on Instagram @loulou_nutrition.

What a balanced plate looks like

How can you make sure you are eating a balanced, filling and nutritious plate at every meal?

Think of your plate divided into different food groups – protein, carbs, fat and fruit and veg.

Protein: David Wiener, training and nutrition specialist at AI-based lifestyle and coaching app Freeletics, told The Sun: “Aim for one to two palm-size portions of lean protein in each meal.”

Protein includes meat (chicken, turkey, pork, beef), beans, peas, lentils and fish.

The NHS Eatwell Guide says to choose lean cuts of meat and mince, and eat less red and processed meat like bacon, ham and sausages.

Aim for at least two portions (two x 140g) of fish every week, one of which should be oily, such as salmon, sardines or mackerel.

Carbs: Carbohydrates should make up about a third of your plate, or a fist-sized portion.

The Eatwell Guide says: “Choose higher fibre or wholegrain varieties, such as wholewheat pasta and brown rice, or simply leave the skins on potatoes.

“There are also higher fibre versions of white bread and pasta.

“Starchy foods are a good source of energy and the main source of a range of nutrients in our diet.”

Fat: Generally the advice is to think of fat like a thumb-sized amount on your plate.

The Eatwell Guide says: “Remember all types of fat are high in energy and should be eaten in small amounts.

“These foods include chocolate, cakes, biscuits, sugary soft drinks, butter, ghee and ice cream.

“They’re not needed in our diet, so should be eaten less often and in smaller amounts.”

But a small amount is still essential for the diet. Try and eat more unsaturated fats (avocado, nuts, olive oil), which are healthier than saturated fats (butter, hard cheese, sour cream).

Fruit and veg: David says: “Make sure you also get lots of colourful fruit and vegetable carbohydrates too.

“Aim for at least five of these portions a day.

“One to two fist-sized portions of fruits and vegetables with every meal is generally recommended.”

Fruit and veg can be fresh, frozen, tinned or dried. You can roast, boil, steam or grill veggies.

THEY say age is just a number – but how old you feel does not correlate to the number of candles on your birthday cake. 

A new study found 36 years old is the age when most of us notice we are no longer in the first flush of youth.

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But there are plenty of ways to continue to feel young at heart. 

Here Laura Stott suggests ways to turn back time in a flash, whatever your age . . .  

CHALLENGE YOURSELF

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Whether it’s a fun run, starting dance lessons or walking 10,000 steps a day, set a target that is achievable. 

Completing a task that stretches your capabilities has been shown to build confidence and provide a sense of accomplishment, which makes us feel more youthful.

Feeling physically fitter puts a youthful spring in your step, too. 

SAY CHEESE

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Forget Botox or going under the knife, if you want to take decades off in an instant, then just smile more.

Research has found that people with happy faces are perceived as younger than they are, and also feel it. 

One study found that images of cheery faces were considered much to be more youthful-looking than those with neutral expressions. 

PUT ON RECORDS YOU LOVED IN YOUR YOUTH

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Whether these are rave tunes or power ballads might depend on how many decades have passed – and whether you first heard them on CD, vinyl or cassette.  

But whatever, listening to those songs can turn back the years in your mind. 

Studies show that favourite sounds activate a region of the brain linked to autobiographical memories. 

HAVE MORE SEX

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Making love can leave you looking and feeling five years younger, according to one study. 

The research, for the charity Age UK, revealed that keeping busy between the sheets makes older adults both look and feel years younger.

Experts believe this is because sex releases feelgood hormones, endorphins. Another UK study even found that regular sex can make you look up to seven years younger. 

STAND UP STRAIGHT

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As we get older, practising good posture is a proven way to look and feel younger.

Keeping your spine tall, shoulders down and core strong will stop your skeleton from looking outwardly old, by preventing stooping or sagging.

It can make us feel more confident which also turns back the clock cognitively. 

Whether sitting, standing or walking, pay attention to posture, to harness its instant anti-ageing benefits. 

TRY NEW FOODS

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If you always eat the same foods, change things up a bit. 

Whether that means a cuisine you’ve never tasted, at a new restaurant, or just varying your mealtime routine, these new experiences should make you feel open-minded.

Even if you don’t enjoy the flavours, breaking a dietary rut should make you feel younger. 

STAY ORGANISED

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From filing your paperwork, to sorting your wardrobe, good housekeeping has been proven to make people feel younger. 

Researchers in 2019 concluded that the more ordered people’s homes were, the more youthful they felt – with a structured environment boosting their optimism and improving memory, even longevity. 

GET SOME KIP

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Studies show that tiredness from a lack of quality shut-eye can make us feel ten years older. 

Participants who did not have sufficient sleep reported feeling older than their real age. 

In contrast, research in Sweden, at Stockholm University, found that being well rested can make us feel up to four years younger. 

YOUNG AT HEART

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Embracing a youthful mindset can also work wonders. 

Don’t dismiss activities or opportunities as not being for you because of your age – challenge those ideas.  

Whether it’s downloading TikTok, a new hobby or wearing this summer’s latest trend, remain curious about new things – whatever your age. 

How to reverse ageing in just 2 weeks, according to royal go-to nutritionist

LONDON -based Gabriela Peacock, who has helped the likes of Prince Harry and Princess Eugenie prepare for their weddings.

She told Fabulous: “The science is evident that we all have the power to make simple life changing alterations to better our future selves – no matter what genetic hand we might have been dealt with.

“The reality is, we all sometimes indulge in unhealthy eating habits like processed foods, smoking cigarettes, drinking too much alcohol, inhaling city pollutants, and even drinking water from plastic bottles – none of this is good for us. 

“All this does is promote the ageing process, but we all have the potential to change this.”

It may be hard, but try to keep away from sugary carbohydrates, because they feed chronic inflammation, which is one of the worst enemies of reversing ageing. 

Now only will you end up putting on weight if you consume them regularly, but your energy and hormonal levels will be affected and this will influence how you look and feel.

Whatever your age or state of health, it’s never too late to reverse how quickly you are ageing and embrace the energy and vigour of a younger you.

Antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, and E, are essential in neutralising free radicals—the culprits behind premature ageing. 

Integrating a spectrum of colourful fruits and vegetables into your diet provides a potent source of antioxidants.

Omega-3 fatty acids, abundant in fatty fish like salmon and flaxseeds, are vital for maintaining skin elasticity and hydration. 

Omega-3s act as nourishment for your skin, locking in moisture and diminishing fine lines and wrinkles. 

Collagen, a structural protein dwindling with age, can be replenished through collagen-rich foods like bone broth and lean protein sources. 

A WHOPPING 120 million Cornish pasties are baked every year in the UK, making them one of the nation’s favourite snacks.

Genuine bakes must be made in the namesake country, contain at least 12.5 per cent beef and 25 per cent root veg.

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But not all of us can make it to the South West to try one, so how do the supermarket options measure up?

LYNSEY HOPE finds out:

Ginsters Original Cornish Pasty (227g)

• £1.95 (£1.95 each)
• Nutrition: 597 calories, 35g fat, 3.7g sugar, 2.1g salt

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Lynsey says: “Given the high price and the somewhat shocking calorie, fat and sugar content, I didn’t want to like these.

“But I did.

“There was a good filling with 15% British beef as well as the traditional potato, swede and onion.

“It was big with a staggering 35g fat and nearly 600 calories – and very filling – definitely a meal as opposed to a snack.

“The pastry was rich and flavoursome though I didn’t like the added turmeric.

“Why mess with a classic?”

• Taste: 4/5
• Value: 4/5
• Overall score: 8/10

Tesco Cornish Pasties (520g)

• £2.50 for 4 (62.5p each)
• Nutrition: 364 calories, 23.3g fat, 9.5g fat, 2.6g sugar, 0.98g fat

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Lynsey says: “These pasties came out smelling very appetising and they had a lovely pepperiness on the tongue.

“They are huge, proper wedges, and I liked the flakiness of the puff pastry.

“There’s a good helping of beef at 18 per cent and these had one of the highest levels of swede, at nine per cent.

“A crowd-pleasing family pack for a good price.”

• Taste: 4/5
• Value: 5/5
• Overall score: 9/10

Asda Cornish Pasties (520g)

• £2.74 for 4 (68.5p each)

• Nutrition: 364 calories, 23g fat, 2.3g sugar, 0.86g salt

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Lynsey says: “Not the tastiest but they are good value and they are filled with a generous 18 per cent beef.

“The filling was dense but a lot of it was onion and it was definitely lacking in swede.

“It’s alright for a meal or snack but I fear pasty purists would not like this.”

• Taste: 2/5
• Value: 2/5
• Overall score: 4/10

Morrisons Cornish Pasties (520g)

• £3.20 (80p each)
• Nutrition: 373 calories, 25.1g fat, 2.1g sugar, 1.16g salt

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Lynsey says: “Very similar to the Tesco pasties with a generous 19 per cent beef.

“The pastry was well cooked and they gave a nice peppery hit on the tongue.

“Perhaps too much spud – I’d have preferred more vegetables.

“Whilst there was seven per cent swede, there was no carrot that I could detect and too much onion.

“Overly salty, too.

“Over 17p more each than the Tesco pasties and not as nice.”

• Taste: 3/5
• Value: 3/5
• Overall score: 6/10

M&S Cornish Pasties (300g)

• £3.50 for 2 (£1.75 each)

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Lynsey says: “Unlike lots of other pasties we tried, this one was made with flaky pastry.

“It was a little fragile with lots of pastry breaking off when I tried to heat it in the oven.

“It was incredibly tasty though.

“The pastry was well-baked and the pasty itself was generously filled with heaps of meat, potato and swede.

“The meat is beef skirt, as per the traditional recipe, which made this juicy and lovely.

“Pricey – but a cut above the other supermarket options.”

• Taste: 5/5
• Value: 4/5
• Overall score: 9/10

Aldi Crestwood Beef and Vegetable Pasty (200g)

• 69p for 1 (69p each)
• Nutrition: 544 calories, 28.5g fat, 3.1g sugar, 1.55g salt

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Lynsey says: “Aldi’s pasty has a Devon ‘crimp’ which means it is sealed on the top rather than traditional Cornish-style on the side.

“It looks great, very substantial and you can’t argue with the price.

“But the filling was bland and sloppy.

“It was lacking meaty flavour and the chunky texture you’d expect.

“Although there was 17 per cent beef, it was potato heavy and the carrots and swede inside were a bit mulchy.

“Very high in fat and calorific too.”

• Taste: 2/5
• Value: 3/5
• Overall score: 5/10

Waitrose Mini Cornish Pasties (180g)

• £3.75 for 6 (63.5p each)
• Nutrition: 90 calories, 5.60g fat, 0.60g sugar, 0.19g salt

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Lynsey says: “Little pockets of delicious pastry but filled with air.

“The filling was nice but there was really only a teaspoon in each one.

“I enjoyed them immensely and loved the tiny size for a snack.

“They were incredibly moreish and I kept eating one every time I opened the fridge.

“I liked the meaty flavour of the beef and there was lots of swede.

“Whilst they contained palm oil like many of the others, it was sustainable.

“However, for the price, I’d have liked them to be fuller.”

• Taste: 4/5
• Value: 3/5
• Overall score: 7/10

Lidl Chef Select Cornish Pasty (200g)

• Nutrition: 597 calories, 35g fat, 3.7g sugar, 2.1g salt

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Lynsey says: “Lidl‘s pasty was hefty and one of the most appetising on offer.

“After 20 minutes in the oven, the pastry was really nice and flaky and the filling was hearty and flavoursome.

“The meat was tender and not chewy and there as no gristle.

“Surprisingly, it was more expensive for a single pasty than many others, but it was huge so I still felt for less than a £1 it was excellent value for money.

“You could easily make a meal out of this.”

• Taste: 5/5
• Value: 5/5
• Overall score: 10/10

Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing [email protected].

Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories

BELLY fat increases your risk of the skin condition psoriasis, a study warns.

Psoriasis, which affects one in 50 people – including reality TV star Kim Kardashian – causes scaly patches of skin usually around the scalp, knees and elbows.

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The 44-year-old has previously opened up about her struggle with the condition she described as ‘painful’.

Model Cara Delevingne and singer Cyndi Lauper are also sufferers.

Researchers at King’s College London analysed data from over 330,000 Brits, including more than 9,000 people with psoriasis. 

They found that abdominal fat was strongly linked to someone’s likelihood of having the condition, particularly for women. 

Study author Dr Ravi Ramessur said: “Our research shows that where fat is stored in the body matters when it comes to psoriasis risk. 

“Central fat, especially around the waist, seems to play a key role. 

“This has important implications for how we identify individuals who may be more likely to develop psoriasis or experience more severe disease, and how we approach prevention and treatment strategies.”

Psoriasis typically begins in someone’s 20s or 50s.

It’s not known what causes the incurable, and therefore chronic, condition.

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It is thought that a problem with the immune system causes the skin cells to replace faster than they should. It is therefore sometimes referred to as an autoimmune disorder.

Dr Ramessur says: “The observed links between central body fat and psoriasis suggest that there may be underlying biological mechanisms contributing to the disease that are not yet fully understood and which warrant further investigation.”

In light of the new findings, experts said Ozempic-style fat jabs, such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, also known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, may help people with psoriasis. 

Dr Joel Gelfand, Department of Dermatology and Center for Clinical Sciences in Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, wrote in an accompanying editorial: “The strong relationship between psoriasis and obesity, and the emerging promise of GLP-1 RAs, is a call to action for clinical trials.”

Dr Catherine Smith, senior author, said: “As rates of obesity continue to rise globally, understanding how different patterns of body fat influence chronic inflammatory conditions such as psoriasis is important.”

How to get rid of belly fat

Most of us have tried to shift belly fat at some point – it can be stubborn and takes some hard work.

Personal trainer Lucy Gornall previously shared with The Sun her non-negotiables if your goal is to lose the extra chub around your middle.

These include:

1. Fill your plate with as many coloured fruits and vegetables as you can.

“These are the fruits and vegetables which pack in nutrients and fibre, but contain very few calories,” Lucy says.

Fibre fills you up and therefore prevents overeating.

2. Don’t overdo the cardio.

“Going hard on runs, cycles and other types of cardio, is NOT the best way to burn belly fat,” says Lucy.

“It will leave you tired (you’ll be turning to high sugar snacks for energy), it will leave you sore, and it will leave you very hungry.”

3. Instead, lift weights.

“More muscle means more calories burnt at rest, meaning you burn off the food you eat easier than if you had less muscle,” says Lucy.

“Aim to include three 30 to 45 minute resistance-based training sessions each week, ensuring that the weight is challenging and your form is correct.”

4. Eat protein

Protein is the most filling food you can eat (over carbohydrates and fats) and helps with muscle recovery from all that weight training you’ll be doing.

“Look to include a source of protein in every meal and you won’t go too far wrong,” says Lucy, noting chicken breast and lean turkey mince are good sources.

5. Move more generally.

Increase your NEAT (non-exercise activity thermogenesis) by doing things like taking the stairs over the lift and walking home from an earlier train or tube station.

STANDING in the queue at the supermarket, Hannah Davison feels a burning sensation in her neck.

While it might be alarming for some, the hairdresser is all too aware of what is causing her chronic pain.

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Her 36H breasts are the culprit with Hannah claiming she was ‘on the way to having a hunchback’ like the famous bellringer Quasimodo.

But Hannah, 33, can now hold her head (and neck) up high after having surgery to reduce her boobs by five cup sizes to a 34C.

She flew to Wroclaw, Poland, on April 14 to have breast reduction surgery where over a kilogram of tissue was removed from her chest.  

The two-hour long surgery cost £3,373 after Hannah received a discount for paying through her Monzo card.  

Now five cup sizes smaller, Hannah feels the hunch at the top of her neck caused by her boobs is “already going” and her daily pain has “disappeared literally overnight”.  

Hannah, who lives with her husband in Greater Manchester, says: “I felt like I was on my way to having a hunchback.

“It panicked me at first because it felt like there could be something really wrong.

“I’m a hairdresser so I’m on my feet all day and using my arms.

“I struggled to stand up for periods of time.

“I’d have a burning sensation in the top of my neck.

“I’d have to sit down for half an hour until it stopped.”

Hannah says that even simple tasks like eating proved a huge challenge.

“Even eating a meal before I was hunched because my boobs would mean my back was pushed down,” she explains.

“My posture was a huge problem.”

The hairdresser says that her life has totally transformed since her surgery, and she’s not the only one who has noticed the difference.

“Everyone has just been looking at them so shocked at how good they look and how it completely changed the frame of my body as well,” she says.

“I look smaller, they were so big and pronounced and changed the frame of body.

“Now they look a lot more natural as well and the pain has been severely reduced.

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“It’s a better quality of life and I’m a lot more comfy in my own skin, which I can say I’ve never had because I’ve had big boobs since I was 14.”

Hannah’s back pain began when she was just 21 when she began hairdressing.  

She said: “As the years have gone on – I’m 33 now – it’s just got progressively worse, and I had a hunch at the top of my back.  

“Standing up and moving my arms in a certain way gave me a burning pain in the back of my neck.”

Hannah first heard about the procedure after a friend flew abroad for a breast augmentation in March 2025 at Europe Surgery, a clinic in Wroclaw, Poland.  

She says: “My decision to go was very last minute.

“I’d wanted surgery done since I was 21 but it was always unreachable due to the price in the UK.  

Standing up and moving my arms in a certain way gave me a burning pain in the back of my neck

Hannah Davison

“I went to Mya Cosmetic Surgery about six years ago and got a quote for £8,000 for the same procedure. 

“It was way out of range for me.  

“The last thing I heard was that the wait list [on the NHS] was six years and you had to go through extreme mental health screening.  

“I didn’t want to wait any longer.

“I had the savings anyway but I didn’t want to dip into them, so I worked six days a week for six weeks to make the money I needed for my surgery.”

Hannah emailed the clinic in January 2025 and had her surgery just six weeks later.  

Common Causes of Saggy Boobs

Gravity: Over time, the constant pull of gravity can cause the ligaments in the boobs to stretch and sag, especially in larger ones

Smoking: Smoking reduces blood supply to the skin, leading to a loss of elasticity and premature sagging

Lack of Support: Not wearing a properly fitting bra, especially during exercise, can lead to stretching of breast tissue and ligaments

Weight gain and loss: Changes in body weight can spark changes to the fatty tissue in the breasts, making them more prone to sagging

She says: “The clinic has a Facebook page with over 17,000 members so you get to see loads of different people’s point of view.  

“I’m now four weeks post-op and I feel absolutely fine.  

“I started back at the gym two weeks post-op.  

“My best friend is a nurse and she can’t believe how neat the incisions look.”

Hannah stayed overnight at Europe Surgery’s clinic before staying a further five days at a hotel, while she waited to be fit to fly home to the UK.  

She says: “A few times I was worried I could feel fluid inside my breast, so I just went straight in.  

“All the nurses are so lovely.  

“The whole experience pain wise was a five out of 10.  

“The only annoyance of the whole process is the healing as you have to do nothing.  

“Other than that, it was a great experience.”

She estimates that “just over a kilo and a half” of breast tissue was removed in the surgery.  

She adds: “I’ve always been into the gym and training, and I feel like my body composition would never change.  

“No matter how much I trained it would never make a difference.  

“Now I can wear nice gym clothes.”

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