Geoffrey joined Second Nature after finding that other diets and eating plans did not result in sustainable weight loss. Since joining, he has gradually lost over 5kg through making positive changes to his diet and lifestyle, and feels confident this is the approach that will work for him in the long term!

A little bit about you

My name is Geoffrey and I have been married to Brenda for 48 of my 68 years on the planet. We became grandparents in January which has been a real blessing and adventure. I am retired from paid employment but have regular volunteering commitments to keep me occupied. I help out with driving for the local food bank, picking up donations and delivering to rural communities. My dog is a registered therapy pet, and in addition to going for walks, we visit people in various schools and residential care homes.

My main forms of exercise are playing golf two or three times a week and practising yoga daily, with a weekly pilates class thrown in for good measure.

“The gradual weight loss and change in eating habits leads to more positive outcomes in the long term.”

I started Second Nature on 6th September 2021 and since then have lost over 5kg. Over the years, I have tried various diets and eating plans (Whole 30, Scottish Slimmers) without any permanent success. With Second Nature, I believe the gradual weight loss and change in eating habits leads to a more positive outcome in the long term.

The main changes I have made throughout the programme are:

1. Being more mindful of my overall carbohydrate intake and reducing periods of snacking between meals
2. Being more mindful of my alcohol intake
3. Prioritising daily activity
4. Switching to decaffeinated tea (I was already on decaf coffee)

“There is no calorie counting or complex measuring of foods.”

The articles that Second Nature provide have been clear, easy to understand, and informative. The simplicity of the programme has helped me feel confident that changes are sustainable. There is no calorie counting or complex measuring of foods. We are given guidance on including carbohydrates with meals and encouraged to remember that all foods have a place in a balanced diet. Enjoying foods like cheese, cream and milk with my meals has made this plan much easier than plans I’ve tried in the past.

The tips and guidance from my health coach, Emily, have been helpful, and the positive and congratulatory emails from the Second Nature team also give me a wee boost. I have also enjoyed the chats with other people following the programme within the app. Tracking progress is simple and encourages you to stick with the choices and changes.

“This is a better way for me to reach my goal than fast, drastic weight loss which is unsustainable.”

Overall, I feel my energy levels are better and my sleep has improved, too. Stopping caffeine in tea has been beneficial and I no longer consume fizzy drinks. The weight loss has been gradual, and I feel this is a better way for me to reach my goal than fast and drastic weight loss, which is unsustainable.

I am viewing Second Nature, not as a diet or eating plan, but as a permanent lifestyle change. I’ve experienced a renewed commitment to regular daily exercise. I’ve also enjoyed foods like chocolate eclairs, but this hasn’t diverted me from my usual nutritious meals and healthy routine!

“I feel much more relaxed and positive about my commitment to change.”

I’d definitely recommend Second Nature. It is simple to do and I received a good deal of support and advice from my health coach, Emily, as well as the Second Nature team.

I feel much more relaxed and positive about my commitment to the changes I’ve made, and believe that sustaining a gentle weight loss will help me to achieve my long term weight goal.

You can read more Second Nature stories here.