NHS says 'always' add this to your plate to lose weight

NHS says 'always' add this to your plate to lose weightThe NHS has offered guidance on how to lose weight through healthy eatingCommentsNewsFiona Callingham Lifestyle writer13:57, 13 Apr 2026View 3 ImagesThe NHS says that adding this to every meal can help you stay full for longer(Image: Getty)The NHS has urged people to "always" incorporate certain foods into their meals to aid weight loss efforts. This strategy will help maintain fullness for extended periods while ensuring your body gets the energy it needs during the day.‌Losing weight is a common goal for many but can prove difficult. With statistics showing approximately a quarter of all adults in Britain are obese, shedding pounds is becoming a health priority for a substantial section of the population. However, it can be trickier than it appears. As part of its Better Health programme, the NHS has provided advice on how to shed weight through dietary changes.‌"It can be tricky to know what to do with your meals if you're trying to lose weight," it said. "Here are some quick tips to help."‌A key recommendation was to "always" include protein in every meal. Protein is a vital macronutrient made up of amino acids. It serves as the "building blocks" for the body's cells, tissues, and organs, carrying out functions such as building muscle and repairing tissues, among others.View 3 ImagesAround a quarter of all adults in the UK are living with obesity(Image: Getty)It can also provide sustained energy and help you feel full. The NHS explained: "Always include some protein – like beans, pulses, fish, eggs, meat or other types. It helps you stay full." This advice is backed by experts at the Mayo Clinic.‌On its website it stated: "In general, high-protein diets help with short-term weight loss by making you feel fuller." However, protein remains a vital part of any balanced diet. The Mayo Clinic warned that researchers are stil...