John's story

How much weight have you lost and how long did it take?

I have lost 9st 3lbs 129lbs58.5kg (now maintaining) and it's taken two years.

What prompted your decision to lose weight?

My decision was based on my health. I had a lot of issues going on caused by being overweight, such as Meralgia prosthetica (numbness and pins and needles down the leg). I found out that losing weight would help.

How did you hear about Nutracheck?

Whilst I was looking for a calorie-counting app, I discovered Nutracheck on the App Store and it had favourable reviews.

Has your weight stayed fairly consistent over the years, or have you always had to manage it?

My weight has been up and down over the years, I've always been overweight and have lost similar amounts twice before but could never maintain. My relationship with food has always been difficult. Keeping a food diary showed me where the calories were going and the nutritional breakdown of each item. Portion sizes were the biggest change that helped me.

Have you experienced any health improvements?

I have experienced massive improvements in my health. The issues I have had improved, and I can walk so much more and further than ever. The Meralgia Prosthetica has completely gone, so my back, knees and hips are less painful.

How easy was it to fit the changes you made into your lifestyle?

It was fairly easy to fit the changes into my lifestyle. The most challenging thing about using Nutracheck was logging my food in the diary and planning my meals.

What was the most difficult thing?

The most difficult thing was when the weight plateaued for 9 weeks. I got through this period by keeping going, when all I really wanted to do was say 'sod it' and overeat or have something naughty! My advice to someone who's going through the same thing would be to remind yourself why you are doing this.

How do you feel now compared to before?

I feel so much happier now and actually like how I look when I catch a glimpse of myself in a shop window, whereas before hated how I looked. A particular moment that means a lot to me is buying smaller clothes and getting into things clothes that previously didn't fit. Also, it's nice receiving comments when people notice the changes as it really gives me a big lift.

Any notable milestones to report?

It was when I hit the 8 stone loss that was my long-term target weight and I rewarded myself by purchasing an expensive pair of Levi's.

What are your 3 favourite features in the app?

My three favourite app features are the reports, the weekly view and the trackers.

What 3 tips would you give to anyone who has weight to lose?

1. Always input in your diary what you consume and don't guesstimate.
2. When you hit a plateau, don't give up, carry on.
3. If you do have a binge or overeat don't beat yourself up or sabotage the whole week, refocus and remind yourself why you're doing it and start fresh the next day.