During his keynote address at the Public Sector Catering Expo MasterChef TV presenter, writer and former greengrocer Gregg Wallace described obesity as a ‘ticking time bomb’ and the ‘greatest threat to the nation’.
Wallace’s mission was ‘inspired’ by his own weight loss journey which has seen him over the past four years achieve a continued balanced lifestyle and improvements to his health. Wallace’s programme ethos:
- Eat three healthy meals a day from the range of nutritionally approved recipes
- Cut out snacking between meals and takeaways
- Replace these with meal planning and learning cooking techniques to make nutritious eating achievable and easy
He commented: “I’m delighted to be working with such a prestigious organisation as Loughborough University. I’m incredibly proud that they see such promise in our efforts to help people lead healthier lives. I’m sure with the help of Loughborough GWH can have a huge impact.”
Health academics at Loughborough University undertook a preliminary evaluation of 100 users of the Gregg Wallace Health programme and initial results have indicated that 98% felt healthier, nearly two-thirds (67%) lost some weight and over half (58%) felt better about themselves. More than 80% reported they reduced their food waste by meal planning.
Amanda Daley, professor of behavioural medicine at Loughborough University, added: “Loughborough University are delighted to partner with Gregg Wallace Health on his new programme. Good nutrition and physical activity can reduce the risk of developing diseases and improve mental health.
“Going back to basic nutritional and eating principles are important components of the programme, and part of what makes it attractive. Programmes that are simple and easier to follow have a much better chance of being integrated into daily routines, to help people lose weight and lead a healthier lifestyle.”