29/12/2025
đâWatching This Young Man Grow
đâSo incredibly proud of Josh Not only has he achieved an amazing weight loss, but watching his confidence grow has been even more special.
From learning how to maintain, to believing in himself and navigating real life with balance. This journey has shaped him in the best way.
Couldnât be prouder đđ
âJoshâs journeyâ
I started my Slimming World journey over 2 years ago with my mum. At the time, I weighed 15st 2lb and I was deeply unhappy.
After just a few short months of perseverance, I reached my target in October 2023, losing 2st 10lb.
From the very beginning, I had so much support and that support is something Iâll always be grateful for. My consultant, Haylea, and my Slimming World family(friends that I met at group, that I never knew I needed) made such a difference. From being invited to sit with them in group, to chatting every week, offering advice, encouragement and tips, it all helped keep me on track.
One thing I really believe in is staying to group. Itâs said a lot, but it truly works. You meet people from all walks of life who are kind, inspirational, and genuinely want to see you succeed. The support you get in group is what helped me reach target and what still helps me stay there.
That said, my journey hasnât been smooth. There have been bumps along the way, and there still are. More recently, university pressures and body image struggles have been tough. But even on those days, I do my best to stay on plan, lean on my sw family and remain in target.
One thing that helps me is managing cravings. Iâll often swap ârubbish foodâ for fruit as itâs sweet, filling, and free. If I really fancy chocolate, Iâll have a small bar or something like a Curly Wurly and enjoy it mindfully.
And if I do lose control one day, I track it, draw a line under it, and start fresh the next day. Life goes on..
Everyone has off days and thatâs something Iâve learned to accept. Weight loss journeys are never straightforward. We all have triggers and inner saboteurs. The key is recognising them and finding ways to work around them, not giving up.
Maintaining Target
To maintain my target weight, I follow Route C with Food Optimising, as I have a fast metabolism. I use my Healthy Extras to structure my day and keep things balanced.
A typical day looks like this:
đĽŁBreakfast: Muesli with yoghurt and fruit
đĽŞLunch: A light lunch such as a sandwich, crisps and a yoghurt
đDinner: A Free Food meal like meatball orzo, frittata, or shepherdâs pie
đ§Evening: A yoghurt and a couple of Hi-Fi bars plus fruit or a little chocolate if needed
Even for those not at target yet, I think Healthy Extras are essential. They help you plan your day and give structure to your meals, which makes staying on plan much easier.
My Top Picks
Healthy A:
⢠Babybel
⢠Cheese strings
⢠30g cheese
Healthy B:
⢠Muesli
⢠Hi-Fi bars
⢠Wholemeal bread
No words can really explain how much joining Slimming World has changed my life, not just with weight loss but with my confidence. I truly love coming to group when I can and always look forward to seeing my Slimming World family and friends.
My advice to anyone reading this is... Just do it.. Take the plunge and join us this Wednesday while we are getting set for 2026. You won't regret it x
Highfield Slimming World Haylea Gavin
