Weight loss resource guide - The Biggest Loser Online Weight Loss Club - The Biggest Loser Online Weight Loss Club

Healthy Living is home to engaging articles, factual discussions and the latest science surrounding weight loss, health, fitness and strength. It's regularly updated with the knowledge you need to achieve your goals.

How taking a walk can make you slimmer

Build strength, burn calories, boost motivation and reduce stress with the simplest form of exercise there is – walking. So it's time to lace up your trainers and get on the inside track with our inspiring guide.

Is sugar toxic and other sticky questions answered

Is it possible that a cupcake with buttercream icing is not just naughty, but potentially harmful? Sugar may be the most maligned, argued about, avoided and craved foodstuff of all time. So who’s saying what, and why? We tackle 4 big sugar shockers.

How to avoid post-exercise hunger pangs

It may seem like a cruel irony but it's perfectly natural to feel hungry after exercise. The trick is not to fall into the compensation trap and undo your efforts on the treadmill. We look at the best pre- and post-exercise snacks to manage your appetite.

The best time to work out

Not sure whether you should workout in the morning, afternoon or night to maximise your fitness and weight loss? We look at the pros and cons of exercising at different times of day, and help you decide what's best for you.

How to avoid Easter weight gain

Dark, white, melted, shaved, crumbled ... chocolate sounds awesome any way you say it. And, at Easter time, it’s pretty much impossible to avoid. So how can you cope without feeling deprived? Here are 6 ways to burn off a Lindt chocolate bunny!

7 spring superfoods you must try

With the onset of spring comes an abundance of fresh food that is brimming with flavour and nutrients. And the best news is that natural, nutrient-dense superfoods aren’t hard to find. So enjoy these 7 in-season superfoods and matching recipes.

Amy takes second in the Biggest Loser 2012

Amy was shocked when her uncle Kevin suggested they take part in The Biggest Loser show together. After deciding to do it for her 2 year-old son, the young mother has since lost 6st 3lb to come second in the compeition and wow the crowd at finale.

Meet Jessie, the Biggest Loser 2012 winning runner-up

Jessie was so fed up with her weight when she applied for a spot on The Biggest Loser 2012 that she was going to resort to a gastric band if her bid was unsuccessful. But just a few months on, the 22-year-old has lost over 40% of her 18st 11lb starting weight.

How to quit smoking and still lose weight

Want to quit smoking but worried you’ll gain weight? Perhaps you’re thinking “one step at a time”, “when I’ve got used to my diet, I’ll work on the smoking”. But, new research suggests you could be better off kicking two habits at once.

Essential tips to avoid break-up weight gain

At times of emotional upset, it’s more important than ever to safeguard your health, your wellbeing and your outlook. Here’s how to navigate the end of a relationship without piling on the weight.

5 science-proven ways to shrink your waist

You might want a slimmer waistline to look good, but it’s also important for your health. So, to improve your health and take in your belt a couple of notches, you need a strategy. Follow these top tips to reclaim your waist.

Surprising new ways to rev up your motivation

On 1 January did you promise yourself that “this year will be different” only to find that your weight loss efforts are already flagging? Psychotherapist Russ Harris reveals surprising new ways to keep your motivation levels sky-high.

Tips for eating out on Valentine's Day

Breakfast in bed, scrumptious chocolates, foil-wrapped hearts and gourmet dining. Generosity and spontaneity are tried and tested ways to impress on Valentine’s Day ... calorie counting and portion control won’t have the same effect, will they?

Wil is still going strong

We catch up with last year's winner, Wil Graham, about what has been happening in his life since shedding 8st 7lb and being crowned The Biggest Loser 2011. Has he kept the weight off? Plus, Wil reveals who he thinks will take home the title this season.

How to get the most from your cardio sessions

Nothing conditions and protects the heart as much as a good, strong workout. The Biggest Loser Club spoke to Charlotte Ord, the new trainer on The Biggest Loser TV show, about the importance of cardio in heart health.

Are your weighing scales telling the truth?

Do you sometimes step on the scales after a week of eating well and wonder where you went wrong? We explain how being heavier is not always the same as gaining weight and the factors influencing unexpected weight gain.

Spice up your diet

We are all aware of the nutritious nature of fruit and vegetables and the life-giving vitamins, minerals and antioxidants they contain. But did you know that many humble herbs and spices are even more nutritious?

Resolution solutions

At the turn of every year do you bow your head in shame for not achieving last year’s goals and tell yourself you can do better? You’re not alone – about 88% of all New Year resolutions end in failure. Follow our ultimate guide to sticking to your promises.

Tricks to burn off Christmas holiday weight gain

Sage and butter basted turkey, rich Christmas pudding and copious amounts of alcohol. While all this partying seemed a good idea at the time, the scales might show a different result. Here are expert tips to burn off the Christmas pounds.

Tinsel-coated quiz

Christmas is upon us, the halls are decked, there are special lunches to cook and parties to attend. But what do you know about making healthy eating choices during the silly season? Check you’re nutritional know-how with our festive quiz.

10 gift ideas for an active Christmas

If you’ve postponed Christmas shopping to the last minute, don’t sweat it. Give your family and friends the gift of health and fitness this year with these top 10 active-inspired ideas.

How to control the booze this festive season

Don’t let the free-flowing drinks get in the way of a happy and healthy festive season. The Biggest Loser Club shows you how you can stay in control and enjoy all the parties!

Guide for new mothers

There is no more difficult time to try and lose weight than after you’ve had a baby. But our no-nonsense, practical advice from women who’ve been there can help you find yourself again. Get your body back quickly and reduce stress with these helpful tips.

Beat winter weight gain

Dietitians are warning the side-effects of a winter “vege out” could last well beyond the season. But we’ve got 10 easy ways to beat winter weight gain.

Diabetes – what you need to know

Type 2 diabetes is currently the fastest growing, chronic disease in the UK. The Biggest Loser Club reveals the warning signs and explains how you can minimise your risk of developing this dangerous condition before it is too late.

Winter family fitness

Winter’s arrival often means cosy evenings on the couch and comfort food. All very well, but this won’t do your weight loss ambitions any good. We reveal how you can keep the whole family fit this season – and you’ll keep your weight loss on track.

The basic maths of weight loss

Weight loss is a numbers game. Fortunately you don’t need a PhD to improve your odds of shedding a large number of pounds. Brush up on your basic weight loss maths and get ahead of the game with our handy reference guide.

Rock hard abs

Hard abs are not only a boost to your confidence, they also help your exercise and general health in numerous ways. Try these exercises from The Biggest Loser Club for the rock hard abs of your dreams.

10 tips to live longer

How old does your body think you are? Being overweight and sedentary, a poor diet and a toxic lifestyle all make you older than your years. The Biggest Loser Club explains how to beat the biological clock.

5 bad foods you should eat

Does your favourite food have a reputation for being fattening and have you banished it from your pantry? Well, get ready to make a dash to the supermarket as we reveal the surprising goodness in 5 popular foods you may be avoiding unnecessarily.

How to boost your immune system

Fed up with catching every cold in the office? If you fall at the first sign of flu, your immune system could do with a boost. Follow our never-get-sick plan: 7 steps to the best defences and sail through the rest of winter.

Look good in your gym kit

If the thought of wearing body-hugging lycra makes you break out in a nervous sweat – relax. Finding the right workout gear doesn't have to be daunting. Follow our guide to selecting gym gear to boost your confidence while you get physical.

The real deal on artificial sweeteners

Most of us are devout when it comes to our morning coffee ritual. But you’ll find us dropping a sweetener in there if we’re watching our weight. A useful alternative to sugar or a chemical cocktail? We demystify artificial and natural sweeteners.

5 steps to defying depression

Bad times happen to us all, but we can stay on top of our hassles with the right strategies. Healthy habits and the right outlook make all the difference to how well you cope. We explain how to defy depression and get your life back in balance.

6 diet myths busted

In the world of food, health and nutrition, it’s sometimes hard to separate fact from fiction. This week we uncover the truth about 6 common diet myths.

Be your best friend

We’re tough on ourselves, particularly when it comes to diet and exercise. But what if you changed how you treat yourself? How would this affect your health and wellbeing? Self-compassion is a novel idea for most of us, but it’s never too late to learn.

The truth about Wii and weight loss

Some studies claim playing 'active' video games can help you lose nearly 2st a year, while others say they’re about as useful as a sweaty gym sock. We pin down the truth about Wii and weight loss.

Brilliant summer barbecues

Cooking under the open sky and over hot coals is a practice as old as civilisation itself. But that doesn’t mean your barbecue needs to be a primitive, blackened affair. Fire your imagination with these tasty suggestions for al fresco dining ...

Barefoot running: fad or fantastic?

A small revolution is taking place in the world of running shoes. Increasing numbers of runners are slipping their feet into more flexible, glove-like shoes before hitting their stride. Should you ditch your conventional running shoes and join them?

7 weight loss habits that are hard to break

The key to successful and sustained weight loss involves changing habits. But as we all know, bad habits are hard to break. If you’ve found yourself hitting the same bad habit snags, The Biggest Loser Club is here to help.

Life starts here: why wait to be the perfect weight?

Many dieters press the ‘pause’ button on their life and wait until they are the perfect weight to do the things they’ve always wanted. But, rather than believing life will begin once you lose weight, get a life now and watch the weight drop.

Five days to happiness

“Achieving happiness requires nothing more than practising a few simple disciplines each and every day,” believes Dr Tim Sharp. Happiness builds resilience, optimism and a better quality of life. Give yourself a happy injection with this five-day guide.

Reclaim your waist

Looking for a shortcut to your perfect shape? Get instant gratification with this non-food, non-exercise way to whittle your waist.

How your body clock affects your weight

Are you a night owl or an early riser? If you have to haul to yourself from bed each day, you’re probably a bit jealous of those bright-eyed, early morning types. Now research suggests they could be onto something. We look at ways to shift your body clock.

How to make veg tasty

Have you ever wondered how to stick to a healthy eating plan if you don’t like vegies? Well, if the sight of broccoli makes you gag, The Biggest Loser Club has good news. You can retrain your palate. Follow our step-by-step guide to making vegetables tasty.

Wave goodbye to saggy arms

Bingo wings, tuck shop arms, nana flaps ... whatever you call them, one body issue that most women dread as they get older is saggy upper arms. The tricep tends to lose tone and definition easily in some women. What’s going on?

The male agenda

Eating more and moving less had led to the average British male weighing over a stone more in 2000 than he did in 1986. Whether you were walking down the aisle or letting loose to Duran Duran, getting back to your 1986 fighting weight is well within your reach.

Neutralise the enemy sugar

Worldwide sugar consumption is rising at more than double the rate of population growth. We’ve got an insatiable appetite for the white stuff, but it’s full of empty calories that may be making us fat. How can you resist the pull of that sugary taste?

Full steam ahead

Looking for a 100% fat-free way to cook that locks in more nutrients and packs a flavour punch? Our very own chef extroadinaire, Courtney Roulston, shares her secrets and cooks up a storm in The Biggest Loser Club kitchen.

Battle of the sexes

Men might be from Mars and women from Venus but what are the differences between us when it comes to losing the pounds? Are men or women more likely to be successful? Or are we essentially the same under the skin?

Why can't I lose weight?

You watch what you eat, sacrifice chocolate and sweat it out at the gym – you’re doing everything right, so why aren’t you losing weight? Here are 12 checks you can make to ensure you’re backing yourself with the best weight loss odds.

Walking wonder

By the time we are 80 years old, we will have clocked up about a staggering 216,262,500 steps. To celebrate National Walk to Work Week and Walk to School Week, we’re encouraging you to up your daily treads, plus we reveal how you can increase the calorie burn of your every stride for effective weight loss walking.

Family affair

The UK is the most overweight country in Europe, with one in four adults and one in ten children being obese. Whether you blame it on nature, nurture or the invention of the burger, it's clear something needs to be done.

Bank holiday bonus

Thanks to the impending nuptials of our future King and Queen, the UK has been blessed with another long weekend. Follow our guide to non-food fun over the bank holiday break to make your social outings work with your healthy plans.

Chocolate unwrapped

Chocolate lovers listen up, or run for cover, because it’s almost Easter and life right now is all about the dark stuff. Pretty foil-covered sweets, chocolate nests and life-size eggs... Follow our guide to surviving the sweet season the weight loss way.

Merrett's master recipes

He trained at the Ritz and has Michelin stars against his name and now you’ve got the chance to put some of Paul's gourmet know-how into your meals. Earn some culinary Merrett with these mouth-watering recipes from the celebrity chef himself.

Yoga versus Pilates

Centuries-old yoga and newfangled Pilates may share the notion of a body-mind connection, but there’s a world of difference between them. Follow our guide to discover the variations between the two and find the one for you.

Salty situation

The nation is blindly consuming more salt than is recommended, but with 80% of our daily intake coming from processed goods it's difficult to keep track. We expose those unassuming foods laden with the white stuff and reveal tips for a lower-salt diet.

Do you have the fat gene?

One in 6 of us may carry an ‘obesity gene’ that experts say makes us 70% more likely to be overweight. In fact, people with this genetic make-up weigh an average of 6lb more than those with no copies of the gene. But can we really blame mum and dad?

Think before you drink

It’s estimated that around 22% of people’s daily calories come from drinks. Milky coffees, fizzy sodas and even ‘healthy’ smoothies all add up, but if these sips aren’t accounted for, the pounds will pile on. Find out if your beloved beverage is weighing you down with our ultimate guide.

Disorder diagnosis

Do you frequently binge on food and then feel guilty? Do you often feel out of control and eat quickly until you’re uncomfortably full? To mark Eating Disorder Awareness Week we explore Binge Eating Disorder – a problem thought to affect 1 in 4 adults, but which remains widely unacknowledged and untreated.

The great detox debate

Gwyneth Paltrow claims to rely on the Clean Program and Beyonce Knowles is said to follow the Master Cleanse, but are detoxes really necessary, or do they do more harm than good when it comes to health? Join our detox debate...

Find your perfect gym

It’s a new year and while most of us sign up to contracts to help us fulfil our weight loss plans, many remain unused from February onwards. Discover how to find the ideal gym for you to make the most of your membership all year through.

Resolution Solutions

Do you bow your head in shame for not achieving last year’s resolutions? Don't worry — about 88% of all New Year resolutions end in failure. Follow our tips to find out how to make your new healthy promises last beyond January for a successful 2011.

Decoding nutrition labels

It's important to get into the habit of checking the nutritional content of your food to help you make healthy choices. Follow our guide to decoding the little labels that are big on information.

Suffering from food amnesia

Even the experts get it wrong when it comes to estimating the number of calories they eat. We consider the best ways to keep track of your calorie intake and eat smarter.

A-Z nutrition guide

Are you befuddled by B vitamins? Do you groan about GI? We explore how to eat smarter with a complete guide that makes better nutrition as simple as A, B, C.

Is spot reduction possible?

Who wouldn’t love to lose weight from a particular part of their body? The tummy tops the list of trouble spots for lots of men and women, so we take a look at whether spot reduction is possible.