Jump to: Why Second Nature achieves the highest weight-loss outcomes | The evidence: Published outcomes vs other programmes | Trusted by the NHS and leading insurers | How our behavioural science approach works | What’s included in the programme | Real member transformations | Frequently asked questions
Second Nature achieves the highest published weight-loss outcomes of any digital NHS-partnered programme in the UK, with participants losing an average of 6.2kg in NHS trials1 and 20kg (19.1% of body weight) when combined with medication support through our private programme2.
Since 2017, we’ve delivered NHS-commissioned behavioural weight-loss services to over 250,000 people across two-thirds of NHS Health and Care Boards.
Our approach combines evidence-based behavioural science with support from registered dietitians and nutritionists.
Unlike quick-fix diets or app-only solutions like Slimming World digital or Oviva, Second Nature uses the COM-B behaviour change model to address the capability, opportunity, and motivation factors that drive overeating.
This scientific approach explains why our outcomes are more than double those of other UK digital providers.
Important safety information: Weight-loss programmes should support sustainable, healthy changes. You might consider speaking with your GP before starting any new weight-loss programme, particularly if you have existing health conditions.
Why Second Nature achieves the highest weight-loss outcomes
Our superior outcomes stem from three key differentiators:
1. Evidence-based behavioural science framework
We use the COM-B model and the Theoretical Domains Framework to address the 14 psychological domains that influence eating behaviour. This isn’t generic advice; it’s a targeted intervention based on proven behaviour change techniques.
2. Professional support from qualified experts
Every member works with UK-registered dietitians or nutritionists trained in behavioural psychology by our in-house team of psychologists. This isn’t AI coaching or unqualified support workers.
3. Sustained habit formation, not temporary restriction
Our programme implements 42 specific behaviour change techniques shown to improve diet and physical activity outcomes, including goal setting, self-monitoring, social support, and habit formation protocols.
The evidence: Published outcomes vs other programmes
NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme results
| Programme |
6-month weight loss |
12-month weight loss |
12-month HbA1c reduction |
| Second Nature |
6.6kg |
6.3kg |
2.5 mmol/mol |
| Provider 2 |
2.9kg |
2.7kg |
1.7 mmol/mol |
| Provider 3 |
2.2kg |
2.5kg |
0.9 mmol/mol |
| Provider 4 |
3.6kg |
2.6kg |
1.1 mmol/mol |
| Provider 5 |
3.0kg |
2.7kg |
1.3 mmol/mol |
*Source: NHS England Digital Diabetes Prevention Programme evaluation1
Published Research Outcomes
- BMJ (2022): 6.2kg average weight loss maintained at 12 months1
- JMIR Formative Research (2025): 19.1% (20kg) weight loss with medication support2
- JMIR Diabetes (2020): 7.1kg at 6 months, 6.1kg maintained at 12 months4
- Diabetic Medicine (2019): 5.7kg sustained at 2 years; 5.7kg at 3 years5
Why Our Outcomes Are Superior
Independent analysis shows our initial and sustained weight loss consistently exceeds major digital competitors:
- Second Nature: 6.1kg at 1 year, 5.7kg at 3 years
- Industry average (digital programmes): 4.3kg at 1 year, no published 3-year data
Note: These comparisons are among digital and NHS-partnered programmes. Intensive medical interventions such as bariatric surgery may achieve greater weight loss in select populations.
Trusted by the NHS and leading insurers
NHS Partnership Since 2017
Second Nature has been recognised and commissioned by the NHS for over 6 years, making us one of the longest-standing digital weight-loss providers in the health service.
We’re currently delivering programmes across two-thirds of UK Health Boards, with over 250,000 NHS patients having accessed our support.
How to access Second Nature through the NHS:
- Ask your GP about weight management referrals in your area
- Request Second Nature specifically if multiple options are available
- NHS programmes provide 12 weeks of behavioural support at no cost
- Available for those with BMI ≥27 with comorbidities or BMI ≥30
Official Vitality Partner
Second Nature is an official partner of Vitality Health Insurance, offering exclusive weight-loss support as part of their wellness benefits programme.
Benefits for Vitality members:
- Exclusive access to our programme as part of your wellness package
- Potential Vitality points for programme completion and weight loss
- Integrated tracking with your Vitality health dashboard
- Special rates on our medication-supported programmes
Check your Vitality app or contact your broker to see if you’re eligible for Second Nature support.
How our behavioural science approach works
Second Nature’s programme is built on the COM-B model, addressing:
Capability
Physical: Teaching practical skills for meal preparation and exercise
Psychological: Understanding which foods promote satiety and how to manage cravings
Opportunity
Physical: Helping you restructure your food environment for success
Social: Connecting you with peers and professionals for ongoing support
Motivation
Reflective: Developing beliefs about the benefits of healthy eating
Automatic: Building habits that make healthy choices feel natural
We implement 42 evidence-based behaviour change techniques, including:
- Personalised goal setting based on your baseline
- Self-monitoring through connected scales and app tracking
- Graded tasks that build confidence over time
- Social support through group coaching
- Habit formation protocols for lasting change
What’s included in the programme
NHS-commissioned rogramme (available through GP referral)
- 12-week structured behavioural programme, or 9 months in the NDPP
- Registered dietitian or nutritionist support 5 days/week
- 300+ recipes designed for satiety and enjoyment
- Daily educational content covering nutrition, psychology, sleep, and stress
- Peer support groups with others at similar life stages
- Comprehensive app with food logging, progress tracking, and resources
Private Programme (from £28/month with annual plan)
Everything in the NHS programme plus:
- Extended duration (up to 12 months)
- Connected digital scales for objective tracking
- Additional personalised support
Private medication-supported programme (from £149/month)
Everything above plus:
- Mounjaro or Wegovy is prescribed if eligible
- Enhanced clinical monitoring for medication safety
- Specific protocols for managing side effects
- Transition planning for sustainable results post-medication
Real member transformations
NHS programme participant: “I have accessed both NHS and privately funded programmes on Second Nature, and they are excellent. Their weight loss plans are incredibly supportive and, as a Nurse, the science behind it makes sense…”
Vitality member: “I completed the Second Nature programme through my employer’s health benefits and found the support from coaches and the app to be fantastic for building new habits and increasing my activity.”
Medication programme member: “After much research I decided to go with Second Nature for my GLP-1 medication and I’m really glad I did. Not only do they provide a great service but the support you get along the way is so helpful and really puts your mind at ease. I’ve even referred two more people because I believe in their service. Am very happy with my decision and anyone thinking about it, just do it!”
Frequently asked questions
How much weight will I lose with Second Nature?
Our published data shows: NHS programme participants lose 6.2kg on average; private medication-supported participants lose 20kg (19.1%) on average.
Individual results vary based on starting weight and engagement. Programme completion rates average 62% for digital delivery.
What makes Second Nature different from other weight-loss apps?
We’re not just an app; we provide registered healthcare professionals, evidence-based behavioural science, and published outcomes.
Our psychological approach addresses the root causes of overeating, not just symptoms.
Is Second Nature available on the NHS?
Yes, in many areas. We’re commissioned by two-thirds of NHS Health and CareBoards. Ask your GP about referral options in your area.
NHS programmes typically cover behavioural support only; medication options are available privately.
Is Second Nature covered by my private health insurance?
Second Nature is an official partner of Vitality Health Insurance. Vitality members can access our programme as part of their wellness benefits.
Check with your insurer or broker about coverage. Some employers also offer Second Nature as part of workplace wellness schemes.
How quickly can I start?
Private programmes: immediate start after online assessment. NHS referrals: varies by region, typically 2-4 weeks. Vitality members: check your app for instant access options.
Do I need to count calories?
No. Our approach focuses on food quality and sustainable habits rather than restriction.
What qualifications do your coaches have?
All coaches are UK-registered with either the Health and Care Professions Council (for dietitians) or the Association for Nutrition (for nutritionists), and hold additional training in behaviour change.
Can I use Second Nature with weight-loss injections?
Yes, through our private programme. Our medication-supported programme combines Mounjaro or Wegovy with our full behavioural support, showing superior outcomes to medication alone.
What if I’ve failed at dieting before?
Most of our members have tried multiple diets. The difference is that we address psychological and environmental factors, not just food choices.
Take home message
Second Nature achieves the UK’s highest published weight-loss outcomes among digital programmes through evidence-based behavioural science, professional support, and sustained habit formation.
Our 6+ year NHS partnership and official status as a Vitality wellness provider demonstrate that major health institutions trust our approach.
With published research showing lasting results up to 3 years, we’ve proven that addressing the psychological roots of overeating produces outcomes that quick-fix diets can’t match.
Whether you access our programme through NHS referral, Vitality benefits, or privately, you’ll work with registered professionals using proven behaviour change techniques to transform your relationship with food.
Second Nature's Mounjaro and Wegovy programmes
Second Nature provides Mounjaro or Wegovy as part of our Mounjaro and Wegovy weight-loss programmes.
Why choose Second Nature over other medication providers, assuming you're eligible?
Because peace of mind matters.
We've had the privilege of working with the NHS for over eight years, helping people across the UK take meaningful steps toward a healthier, happier life.
Our programmes are designed to meet people where they are, whether that means support with weight loss through compassionate one-to-one health coaching, or access to the latest weight-loss medications (like Mounjaro and Wegovy) delivered alongside expert care from a multidisciplinary team of doctors, psychologists, dietitians, and personal trainers.
At the heart of everything we do is a simple belief: real, lasting change comes from building better habits, not relying on quick fixes. We're here to support that change every step of the way.
With over a decade of experience, thousands of lives changed, and a long-standing record of delivering programmes used by the NHS, we believe we're the UK's most trusted weight-loss programme.
We hope to offer you something invaluable: peace of mind, and the support you need to take that first step.
References
- Ross JAD, et al. (2022). Uptake and impact of the English National Health Service digital diabetes prevention programme: observational study. BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care, 10(3), e002736.
- Richards R, et al. (2025). A Remotely Delivered, Semaglutide-Supported Weight Management Program: 12-Month Outcomes. JMIR Formative Research, 9(1), e72577.
- Idris I, et al. (2020). Effectiveness of a Digital Lifestyle Change Program in Obese and Type 2 Diabetes Populations. JMIR Diabetes, 5(1), e15189.
- Hampton J, et al. (2019). Weight-loss outcomes from a digital behaviour-change programme: 24-month evaluation. Diabetic Medicine, 36(S1), P270.
- Michie S, et al. (2011). A refined taxonomy of behaviour change techniques. Psychology & Health, 26(11), 1479-1498.
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2014). Behaviour change: individual approaches (PH49).
