A weight loss consultant Hazel Milligan has pledged to inspire confidence in her clients after she herself dropped four dress sizes in just six months. Hazel joined her local Slimming World group in April 2024 and managed to lose an impressive two stone seven pounds, going from a size 18 to a comfortable size 10.
Prior to joining Slimming World, Hazel confessed that she lacked self-confidence and felt embarrassed about returning to the group after regaining all the weight she had previously lost. “I had a very bad ankle and could hardly walk and was taking Naproxen from the doctor to relieve the pain”, Hazel shared.
“I rejoined our local group to support my husband on his weight loss journey and it’s changed my life too! ” “I love attending group every week for support, motivation and food ideas plus it feels great to know I am not alone. I felt so silly for not returning to group sooner than I did, especially having lost seven pounds in my first week after enjoying some of our family favourite meals.
“The group is always warm and friendly and there’s loads of buzz and banter too. My consultant always listens, is understanding and so supportive. I knew I wanted to be that for others too and be that support and motivation for them.”
Having been overweight herself, Hazel, hailing from Scotland, understands the struggles people can face, which is why she, along with the group, will be there to support each of her members on their journey to reach their desired weight, reports the Daily Record.
She explained: “Setting targets, sharing recipes and other ideas, and working together as a group to overcome challenges and celebrate success is so important to a successful journey. That’s why, at my Slimming World group, there’ll be tons of support, encouragement and fun as well as recipe ideas to help people still be able to socialise, have their family favourites and never miss out.”
The Food Optimising plan that Slimming World promotes allows members to enjoy hearty meals like pasta, rice, potatoes, and lean meats and fish, ensuring they’re satisfied without feeling deprived. Hazel added: “Since joining Slimming World, I have never been hungry. I love making pizza using flatbreads and having loads of homemade chips and salad on the side.”
“The family love it when I make my Cajun chicken pasta and a firm favourite in our house is spaghetti bolognese. I love that I don’t have to cook separate meals, we all love the same delicious, filling food and we are healthier for it.”
“I feel happier now than I did when I joined Slimming World. Clothes that I wore years ago, before I gained weight, fit again and I even have bags of clothes that are too big for me now that were comfortable before, some were even too tight. “Before Slimming World, I had no routine and after going a whole day without eating, I would have a micro burger and chips or a quick ready meal filled with all the wrong things.
“Now, I find it easier to make a meal plan for the week with the support and ideas from others in the group and then head on my weekly food shop to help keep me prepared. I still enjoy chocolate and even enjoy alcohol socially, but now I am more in control.”
“Slimming World isn’t just about changing what you eat. Becoming more active is important too.”
“Their Body Magic programme takes the threat out of activity by showing people, many of whom have unpleasant memories of being forced to take part in activity at school, how they can build activity into their daily routine without having to take up traditional forms of exercise like going to the gym or running. Everything counts – from walking to gardening to washing the car.”
“As mentioned before, I could hardly walk with the pain in my ankle but now, thanks to losing weight, the pain is pretty much non existent and I am no longer having to take medication to help”, said Hazel. “I can now enjoy walks again and can dance the night away on a night out.”
Hazel trained as a consultant for Slimming World, the UK’s largest group-based weight loss organisation, at their national training academy in Derbyshire.
Members are now getting ready to welcome Hazel as their new consultant when she takes over the Village group on Tuesday, January 28. The latest government figures reveal that around one in four adults are obese and it is estimated that, by 2034, this will increase to one in three.
Amidst the concerning news that a third of South Lanarkshire’s residents are struggling with weight issues, Hazel emphasises the growing significance of her role as a Slimming World consultant. Emma Johnston, who mentors Hazel in her work, commended her dedication, saying: “Slimming World consultants are chosen for their positive outlook and because they genuinely care about the health and happiness of others. With Hazel’s kind heart and warm nature, alongside her experience as a slimmer, I have no doubt she will help support members to achieve their dream weight and keep it off for life.”
Those interested can join Hazel’s Slimming World group sessions taking place at The Village Centre on Maxwell Drive in East Kilbride.
For details or to take advantage of joining offers, one is welcome to visit on January 14, 21, or 28, or contact Hazel directly at 07821 440225.