Losing weight really is mind over matter

SO Boris thinks that we are all too fat, and in the fight against Covid, we must do something about it.

For once, he may be right. Obesity statistics provided by NHS Digital indicate that 67 per cent of men are overweight and 60 per cent of women are also too heavy.

These facts are supported by a recent Nuffield Trust survey which additionally underlines the fact that there is obesity in children as well.

The Prime Minister is, he says, setting an example by losing a couple of stone.

It would seem sensible for us all to check what our BMI should be and take action accordingly.

This simple equation, weight in kilos divided by height squared in metres, should result in a figure somewhere between 18.5 and 24.9.

If it is either under or over, then it is time for action.

Losing weight can be very difficult with so much food choice nowadays, coupled with the fact that many do not exercise enough.

I have been down this road, for in 1991, I was taken on as one of a dozen experimental patients testing a drug for a medical condition.

I was lectured about what I could and could not do. This included a weight window of just three pounds.

An elderly and wise doctor advised me to continue to eat sensible foods, ie low fat, but gradually reduce intake until the required slot was achieved. Under no circumstances was I ever to eat between meals, so no tid-bits.

I have a daily routine of weighing myself every morning, so if a bit of rationing is needed, it can be done that day.

Just one of the reasons that I don’t really like Christmas! However, nearly 30 years down the track, such discipline has served me well, and although the other eleven patients have died and the research doctor retired, I am reasonably fit and healthy.

Covid is a killer so if there is any way in which we ordinary mortals can protect ourselves by achieving BMI requirements in terms of weight, we should do it.

Russell Luckock is chairman of Birmingham pressings firm

AE Harris