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Please note: we’re unable to respond to any queries that are answered within our FAQ section.
Click on the questions below to jump to the answer. The arrows will take you back to the top (
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Q: What is Food Optimising? A: It's the most incredibly user-friendly system of slimming ever. With Food Optimising, you lose weight without hunger and without the obsessive need to note every food you eat.
Q: Can I still eat chocolate?
A: Yes you can. You'll probably find that you'll eat it less of it in time and quite soon you'll find you don't actually want it as much as you used to, but eating for wellness and well-being means being able to have a bit of what you fancy.
Q: Can my children Food Optimise too?
A: While it's fine for children aged five and over to eat the same healthy meals as you do while Food Optimising, younger children, especially under-twos, should not have reduced fat dairy foods: Give them full-fat yogurts, spreads, milk and fromage frais. As children's stomachs are quite small, too much high fibre food may fill them up without providing all the nutrients they need, so don't give them high-bran cereals, crispbreads etc. As with adults, depriving children of favourite treats like crisps and sweets can be counter-productive. But try to avoid giving sugary, salty or fatty snacks every day and always have lots of healthy alternatives to offer.
Q: I’m still hungry. Can you help?
A: It can be difficult getting over that ‘diet’ feeling (Dare I Eat That?), but trust in the power of Food Optimising. Be encouraged to eat, eat, eat until you’re full and completely satisfied. There really is no need to go hungry with Food Optimising because of the huge range of completely Free and unlimited foods that are available. When you next go shopping, plan in advance and make sure you stock your cupboards with plenty of Free Foods, fill up your fruit bowl with your favourites and perhaps some new Free fruit (don’t forget, bananas and grapes are Free and great for nibbling on!), and pile your plate high at meal times. If a recipe is Free but says it serves 4, don’t feel restricted by that. If you want to eat the whole pan of chilli, dish of pasta or two steaks instead of one – feel free!
Q: What are Free Foods?
A: At Slimming World we recognise that to lose weight healthily and comfortably, and to sustain that weight loss, slimmers need and want to eat lots of 'real' food, not diet food! A plate of food when you are Food Optimising will certainly be full - as full as you like - but it is what it is filled with that will help you lose pounds, not pile them on.
Food Optimising's Free Food is food that is low in energy density and high in appetite satisfaction, or to put it a different way low in calories, but very filling.
Food Optimising gives you an incredible choice of hundreds of Free Foods - this list contains a massive variety of delicious, satisfying foods that you can eat as much of as you like. There's no measuring, weighing or counting - you need never be hungry again!
Q: What are Syns?
A: Syns are Slimming World's effective alternative to calorie or fat counting, designed to make sure you can enjoy your favourite treats every day, from chocolate and cake to ice cream and alcohol. All food that isn't Free has a Syn value - you simply choose how to spend your Syn allowance each day.
Q: I am going into hospital, will I have to pay again?
A: You are allowed to miss six weeks without charge in any year for holidays and illness. Tell your Consultant as soon as you are able. Under exceptional circumstances, such as hospitalisation, we will always extend the six week allowance. Talk to your Consultant, it's at their discretion
Q: What is a Healthy Extra?
A: As well as all the Free Foods, every day we ask you to choose measured portions of 'Healthy Extras' - more long lists of foods that boost your fibre, vitamins and minerals, especially calcium. These can include wholemeal bread, high-fibre breakfast cereals, soups, and dairy products, and again you'll find there are a wide variety of foods to choose.
Q: I'm Food Optimising 100% but not losing weight - what should I do?
A: Unfortunately it is really impossible for us here at Slimming World Head Office to know why you are not losing weight. It must be very frustrating when you don’t lose weight and yet you feel that you are doing everything you should be doing.
We find the main reasons for not losing weight are:
• genuinely believing something to be a Free Food when it’s not
• inadvertently underestimating Syn values
• not checking Syn values before we eat (especially where branded products and convenience foods are concerned as these do vary enormously) or
• not weighing or measuring foods accurately where you need to.
It’s amazingly easy for one or more of these little things to temporarily slow down your weight loss. When it happens, members tell us they find it helpful to go to go back to basics with Food Optimising, double checking that Free Foods are in fact free and double checking measurements and Syn values. Although it’s tedious, it usually helps tremendously to write down everything you eat and drink on a Food Diary for a few days. With absolutely everything that passes your lips measured (if not Free) and written down, it often only takes a day or two to discover the problem. Making sure you eat plenty (and we mean plenty!) of Free Food and your Healthy Extras means you are more likely to ‘control’ the riskier Syns element!
Another very, very useful ‘self diagnostic’ tool is the Slimming World SAS log (Slimmers against Sabotage log). It’s a different and incredibly effective way of discovering what might be tripping you up. Ask your group Consultant to let you have a number of the logs for the week. Please do talk to your Consultant about your weight loss, they will be happy to help and fully trained to give you the help and support you need.
Q: Does Slimming World run groups outside the UK?
A: Slimming World have groups throughout the UK, in the Republic of Ireland and now in Dallas, Texas. We don't currently have groups outside these areas as we would not be able to train, monitor and support Managers and Consultants to the degree necessary to give our members the service they deserve. We would therefore be jeopardising Slimming World's excellent reputation of which we are so proud.
We offer a fabulous online weight loss programme to slimmers who can't get to a group. You can find out more about bodyOptimise by visiting www.bodyoptimise.com
Q: My online Food Diary won’t work properly – it’s really slow and keeps crashing or freezing
A: The problems you are experiencing may be due to the amount of traffic currently using the internet, and this could happen even on broadband during your internet provider’s peak times.
We've also discovered that some PC software is creating a small problem for a few members. One of these is Zone Alarm, which is personal firewall software and we have found a fix for this; please select privacy>site list and uncheck the third party web bugs setting.
Something else to try which may help resolve this could be to clear your temporary internet files. For Internet Explorer this can be located by clicking tools > internet options > general, which will show a page with ‘temporary internet files’, click on delete files’ and ‘delete cookies’. Once you’ve done this, press Control + F5 on your keyboard to refresh your PC and try again. If this doesn’t help, it may be that your security software is affecting you viewing the website properly, so it could be worth you checking this with your security software provider
Q: I’ve re-joined LifelineOnline, how do get my progress records back?
A: If you’ve re-registered, welcome back to LifelineOnline! It is possible to re-enter your weight details so that you don’t lose your ‘progress’ chart – and can carry on from where you left off.
To do this, click on the ‘my journey’ section from the navigation menu at the top left hand side of the screen. Then, click on the ‘update your account’ link from the navigation menu. On this page you can enter the original date you started at your group, and tell the website what day you’d like to weigh in.
Once you have clicked on the ‘update’ button, you can then visit the ‘set PAT’ section – where you can enter your target weight.
After doing this, you can go to the ‘view my progress’ page – where you will see several blank spaces below your achievement graph where you can enter your weight details from past weigh-ins. This will build the graph again for you.
Q: Do I have to eat all my Healthy Extras every day?
A: It won't affect your weight loss if you don't take all your Healthy Extra choices. However, the Healthy Extra section is there to ensure a balanced diet, so from a health point of view we recommend that you enjoy all your Healthy Extras each day.
Q: Can I really eat as much Free Food as I want?
A: Yes, you really can! The stroke of genius behind Food Optimising is its concept of completely unrestricted 'Free Foods'. With Food Optimising your appetite becomes your limit - rather than the number of points/calories you're 'allowed' with other, restrictive plans.
There's no longer a need to deny yourself or eat guiltily. You are in fact freed from the fear of hunger and the urge to overeat will disappear. Decisions about food become real, not enforced; control comes from choice power, not cast-iron will power. With Food Optimising you can satisfy your appetite on foods you love, and still lose weight!
Q: The sample menus are too filling. Do I have to eat everything suggested?
A: Not at all, no. If you become full, whether you’re enjoying a delicious Food Optimising recipe or a nutritious sample menu, feel free to stop eating.
Q: There is no group near me. Is there a diet I can follow at home?
A: At the heart of Slimming World's success is the warm and friendly atmosphere of our groups and the support of our caring Consultants. Joining a weekly support group is the very best way to lose weight - in the company of a group who can help and support you.
Alternatively, you are welcome to join Slimming World's bodyOptimise - unique online weight loss support at the touch of a button. Visit www.bodyoptimise.com or click here for further information.
Q: Do your websites provide a message board or forum for members?
A: We have researched the use of forums and message boards on a variety of websites (slimming and otherwise) in depth over the last several years. Although many of the messages posted are generally supportive, the misuse of these boards is sadly evident. Some of this is done completely out of awareness – e.g. helpful hints about Food Optimising, if the basic information is incorrect, can send a member way off track; reading comments intended to be supportive can be interpreted very differently, especially if our self-esteem is already low.
Because slimming is such a personal and emotive subject, especially for those of us who are slimming, thoughtless comments and inconsiderate remarks (sadly it happens) can undo all the hard work that our members have done in plucking up the courage to start Food Optimising or begin a new activity. We have seen the damage and upset that message boards can do to both members and the company, and rather than put our members’ success and the future of the website in jeopardy, we have made the decision not to include any kind of forum.
Q: Do you do a recipe book that caters for one person?
A: Most of our recipes are for four people. You could divide the ingredients, or freeze extra portions. We don't emphasise portion control - simply have as much of each dish as you like. We want you to feel comfortable with our healthy eating system for the rest of your life. Because all our recipes are either very low in Syns or Free, you can have as much as you want without feeling restricted by someone else's idea of how big your portion should be.
Q: Can I still have a drink?
A: Indeed you can. It's the same reason as why it's OK to eat chocolate.
Q: Will Food Optimising suit me?
A: Only if you're human! Seriously though, we've tried to think of who it wouldn't suit and it just doesn't compute. That's because it's like asking 'Will eating suit me?'
Q: Is it complicated?
A: Food Optimising is as simple and easy to follow as it is to use. Beneath this simplicity and ease of use is an extremely sophisticated and well researched system that, quite literally, optimises food usage for the slimmer.
Q: How often can I enter my weight details?
A: We’ll remind you to enter your new weight every 7 days. You can change your reminder to pop up the day after your Slimming World group, if you like. Visit the My Journey section for more details.
Q: Do I have to cook separate meals for myself while I'm slimming?
A: No, the whole family can benefit! Meals based on rice, pasta, potatoes, or lean meat and fish, with plenty of fruit and veg, are great for everyone's health. It's fine for children aged five and over to eat the same healthy meals as you do. Slimming World magazine is packed with great recipe ideas every issue and Slimming World's website also features dozens of delicious recipes and food ideas that are perfect for everyone.
Q: I have asthma. Should I still exercise?
A: The combination of activity and Food Optimising leading to weight loss can help improve asthma and reduce the need for medication.
Although exercise is a common trigger for asthma, gently increasing activity levels improves general fitness and well-being, and also the function of the lungs as they learn to cope with a higher breathing rate, which in turn helps the body cope with the condition. The UK's National Asthma Campaign explains “asthma should not stop you doing any type of exercise as long as you consult your doctor regularly.” They do advise asthma sufferers to avoid exercising in cold dry air, warm up and down properly and ensure their asthma is under control before beginning any activity.
Q: Do you do exercise in the group?
A: No, however we encourage you to combine healthy eating with an active lifestyle. Being active can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure as well as help protect against osteoporosis and diabetes. It can have positive effects on mood, self-esteem, stress and anxiety levels, and improve sleep, energy levels and general fitness. However, Food Optimising doesn’t rely on you sweating every evening at the gym or training for the marathon from day 1! Food Optimising properly without exercise will result in a weight loss – we guarantee it! Food Optimising with exercise will bring even greater results.
Q: Is it OK to eat several small meals during the day rather than a large breakfast, dinner and lunch?
A: Of course. Food Optimising is a wonderfully healthy and nutritious way of eating that can fit in with your lifestyle. If you prefer to eat several small meals, enjoy them. Filling up on Free Food whenever you’re hungry is a great way to keep on track for a great weight loss next week.
Q: Is it OK to snack?
A: Absolutely! To stick to Food Optimising 100%, it’s worth keeping a stock of Free Foods handy to snack on – it certainly makes the vending machine less appealing if you have your favourite Free Foods to hand! And if you like to snack on food that isn’t Free, keep track of your Healthy Extras and Syns or try to find Free alternatives.
Q: I've missed an issue of the magazine. Can I buy back issues?
A: Sorry, back issues of the magazine aren't available to buy.
Q: Is any advice available outside of the group?
A: Support in between groups comes free of charge by telephoning your Consultant, or one of the many successful slimmers in our Lifelines system. If staying in your armchair is what you choose to do, please be aware that you are not giving yourself the best chance of success. The magic that happens in a Slimming World group begins by simply being physically there, no anonymity, and feeling the love and trust build. It's a warm, safe place to be and all this is the first of the building blocks of your success. If you are in a position where it really is impossible for you to attend a group, then there are ways that we at Slimming World do our level best to help.
If you don't have a group near you we can offer you bodyOptimise membership- a groundbreaking, revolutionary online weight loss service that's perfect for:
Discover more here
Q: I've got an underactive thyroid, my doctor has prescribed Thyroxine. Will I still be able to lose weight?
A: Treatment with thyroxine helps correct a slow metabolic rate and prevent further weight gain. Although thyroxine treatment will not induce any weight loss by itself, once treatment has started just Food Optimise as normal and you'll soon see the weight coming off.
“I have an under-active thyroid so I always thought it would be hard for me to lose weight. As soon as I joined Slimming World I was pleasantly surprised. I am absolutely elated to discover an eating plan that actually works! I’ve lost 25lbs so far and am really enjoying the meals.” From Amanda Lea Jackson
Q: Can I save up my Syns for the weekend?
A: Yes, if you want to, some people like to do this. Do consider though, whether you really will be happy depriving yourself for most of the week. You may prefer to be flexible with your Syns and increase your Syn allowance for a night out or a special occasion.
Q: I still can’t log on even after trying all your log on solutions, what do I do now?
A: If you have tried all our solutions and are still having problems accessing the website or section, we recommend you contact the manufacturer of your security software package. You’ll need to ask them how to enable cookies for our website, www.slimmingworld.com
Another reason may be that you haven’t visited Lifeline Online for over 6 weeks. If this is the case, your account may have been automatically removed. We regularly clear accounts from our database if they haven’t been accessed for 6 weeks to keep the website as fast-running as possible. Each time an account is due to be removed we always inform the member by email to remind them to log on during the next few days to keep their account active. If your previous Lifeline Online account has expired, please feel free to re-register with your email address and group password to create a brand new account.
Q: Are there any Slimming World groups in the Republic of Ireland?
A: Yes! We currently have groups in County Donegal. Click here for the list of groups in the area. As we expand in the Republic of Ireland you’ll find groups opening up throughout the country. Telephone 01 656 9696 for further group information.
Q: What are flexible Syns?
A: There's plenty of evidence that being too rigid means you're more likely to give up and put your weight back on and that allowing yourself to be a little more flexible is the key to long term success. If 10 Syns a day is where you need to be on a regular basis, but sometimes it's just too tight for comfort, it's far better to allow yourself extra Syns every now and again without the punishment of compensating the next day. Never again will you be able to accuse yourself of 'blowing it' just because you needed a few more Syns on the odd day or two.
Q: I'm on HRT, will I still be able to lose weight?
A: We have many, many members who are losing weight successfully while on HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy). While some women feel taking HRT may have slowed their weight loss, it has not prevented them from losing weight and there is absolutely NO convincing evidence that HRT causes weight gain.
Q: Do you offer a home visit service?
A: No, but your Consultant is always only a phone call away. We also encourage members to use 'Lifelines' - the phone numbers of friends and other members you can contact for support when you need it.
Q: I have diabetes. Will Body Magic suit me?
A: Yes. Regular activity is an important part of the management of type 2 diabetes. It helps the body respond better to insulin and improves glucose control. Activity can improve insulin sensitivity independent of any weight loss, but of course, losing weight through exercise too brings even greater benefits.
If you have type 1 diabetes you can also benefit from regular activity, which will help keep your weight in control and improve fitness. As always, if you have any concerns or are unsure of what levels of activity will be suitable, please contact your doctor or diabetes care team.
Q: Is Food Optimising expensive?
A: Food Optimising can be as cheap or as expensive as you want to make it. Take another look through the Free Food list. A lot of Free Foods including potatoes, pasta, eggs, beans, tinned tomatoes and frozen vegetables like beans, corn, leeks, spinach, carrots and swede can all be bought very cheaply.
Of course if you want to splash out the Free Food lists also include salmon, caviar and even lobster!
Q: Can I still come to Slimming World while breastfeeding?
A: Once your baby is 6 weeks old and you've had your post-natal check-up, you are welcome to return to your group, but we ask you to check first with your midwife or doctor. Your body needs extra energy and calcium while you are breastfeeding and we recommend you increase your Healthy Extra choices. Your Consultant will be able to show you the recommendations and booklet in your group.
Q: How do I get the password for LifelineOnline?
A: Your Slimming World Consultant will give out the password each week at your group meeting. The group password is only available from your Consultant.
If you’ve been given this week’s group password and forgot to write it down, please give your Consultant a quick call for a reminder, as the password isn’t available from Head Office.
Q: How does it work?
A: Food Optimising takes account of
- a food's energy density
- its health-giving properties
- its ability to satisfy the appetite quickly
- its ability to keep us feeling full longer
- its ability to comfort us
- and our behavioural patterns.
Using these principles, Food Optimising creates, without distressing hunger, an energy (calorie) deficit which causes the body to draw on its own stores of body fat and convert this to energy.
Q: How long will it take?
A: That depends on how much you want to lose. Steady weight loss of 1 to 2lbs per week is recommended in government health guidelines. Sometimes people with a lot of weight to lose will have a more rapid weight loss in the first few weeks. You could lose up to 1 stone/14lbs in five weeks, 2 stones/28lbs in ten weeks.
Q: What is ambient food?
A: This means foods that are non perishable and have a long life (refrigeration not needed).
Q: My predicted progress isn't working!
A: The predicted progress is visible from the My Progress page. This works using the last 4 weeks of weight information. If your average weight change is a maintain or a gain, a predicted date won’t show.
Q: Why are some fruits Free when raw, but have a Syn value when cooked, juiced or pureed?
A: While fruit in its natural form is bulky, filling and often time-consuming to eat, in cooked or liquidised form it is a very effective way of adding a lot of extra energy (calories) in a non-bulky and non-filling way. Consider eating an orange. Peeling, breaking up the segments and eating just one orange can be a lengthy process. Now think about the juice that orange would produce – it contains a similar number of calories, yet it’s gone in a gulp – in fact it takes 8 oranges to make a small glass of orange juice and it’s not filling in the slightest! It’s all about getting the most (optimum) satisfaction from your foods with Food Optimising. We count juiced and cooked fruit as Syns to protect your weight losses.
Q: Can I take my toddler along to Slimming World with me?
A: Do bring your child with you to the group if you cannot make other childcare arrangements. Your Consultant will appreciate it if you let her know and if you can bring some toys, colouring books or story books to amuse your child during the group. Many daytime groups have lots of young parents as members, and these will often have toys provided.
Q: I’m expecting a baby. Should I exercise?
A: Pregnancy doesn’t have to mean inactivity and for most pregnant women, regular activity will be highly beneficial. Being fit is an advantage both in the pregnancy and recovery period.
It’s important to consult your doctor or midwife before starting any exercise, particularly if you haven’t been active prior to your pregnancy. Your doctor or midwife should be able to advise on suitable activity or even recommend local classes for mums-to-be. The benefits can include:
• More chance of a healthy level of weight gain during pregnancy
• More rapid weight loss after pregnancy
• Improved mood and sleep patterns, leading to less tension during pregnancy
• Shorter delivery time, and fewer complications during labour
Q: Can I mix and match my Healthy Extras by halving the portions?
A: Yes, if you like - you’ll still lose weight beautifully! The downside is your speed and fibre symbols would have to be ignored unless your two halves had identical symbols. However, mixing and matching couldn't be done when there are multiple items in one choice. With all single item choices, feel free!
Q: I have coeliac disease and need to follow a gluten-free diet, will Food Optimising be suitable for me?
A: Certainly, you can still Food Optimise. You may want to make some adjustments to your Healthy Extra choices. Ask your Consultant for more information.
Please note, we are unable to provide any specific advice regarding coeliac disease and would recommend that you always follow the advice and specific dietary recommendations suggested by your doctor or dietitian.
Q: How can I Syn my home-made recipe?
A: The best way to work out the Syn value for any homemade recipe is to 'Syn' each individual ingredient used from the Syns Section in your Food Optimising Book.
Add the Syn values of all the ingredients together, which will give you the total Syn value for the recipe. Finally divide the total Syn value by the number of portions you make from your recipe - this will give you the Syn value per serving.
Q: I can't get to a group, can I join online?
A: Absolutely! bodyOptimise, our online membership is a great solution for you and it’s a great time to join to take advantage of our special offer - which means a saving of at least £19.95 on your first three month subscription!
bodyOptimise is perfect for:
· everyone who can’t get to one of our warm and friendly groups
· everyone who’s looking for a healthy, filling and delicious way to lose weight for good
· everyone who has internet access
Say goodbye to hunger and deprivation!
Bid farewell to faddy short-term ‘solutions’!
Say hello to bodyOptimise!
bodyOptimise membership includes:
· The secret of slimming without hunger - Food Optimising
· Instant Syns Calculator and Syns Online
· Over 1400 delicious Food Optimising breakfasts, lunches, dinners, starters, desserts and snack ideas.
· Your own Food Optimising menu creator.
· A 7-day starter plan of delicious Food Optimising menus – tailored to your personal tastes and preferences
· A unique support system that is so advanced, so profound, so empowering, that failure becomes a thing of the past.
Logon today at www.bodyoptimise.com
to discover the route to a brand new you – cool, confident, slim and sensational.
Free your dreams today.
Q: Is there a special offer if I join with my family?
A: Yes! Join with 4 other members of your family (or friends/colleagues) and you'll all receive your first week free!
Q: How many Syns do I count for cod liver oil/evening primrose capsules?
A: It is your choice if you wish to count any oil based capsules, if you do its just ½ Syn per 1000mg.
Q: Does Fybogel need to be counted as Syns?
A: Fybogel does not have a Syn value. Medical advisors have informed us that because fybogel is not absorbed into the body it does not provide any energy, and therefore it does not need to be counted as Syns.
Q: Will I get muscly if I start exercising?
A: The last thing we want is to create a country full of Gladiator lookalikes! Whilst intense activities like regular, repetitive weight training can build muscle (if you’ve got plenty of testosterone), moderately intense activity will tone muscle and reduce body fat. Rather than having bulging biceps, you’ll end up with a firmer, beautifully defined body.
Q: What is Image Therapy?
A: It's at the heart of a Slimming World group, the most important part of the support, inspiration and motivation unique to Slimming World. It's the time when everyone in the group can share their successes, their problems and discover solutions together. Research shows slimmers are more successful when part of a supportive group.
Q: How can I subscribe to the magazine?
A: You can contact our free credit card hotline on 0800 131 3150 (9am-5.30pm Mon-Fri) The prices are as follows:-
UK - £15
Eire and Europe - £24.10
Overseas - £36.05
This includes seven issues.
Q: Will drinking plenty of water improve my weight loss?
A: Contrary to popular belief, drinking water doesn’t magically speed up weight loss or increase your metabolic rate. Feelings of thirst, however, are often mistaken for feelings of hunger so drinking a glass of water rather than a packet of crisps can allay that feeling (of course, with Food Optimising, you can reach for some Free Food or count Syns without worrying about adding inches!). Water also keeps you hydrated and lubricated, so it’s important to include around 6-8 glasses or 1½-2 litres of fluids a day (that includes low calorie squash, juices, tea and coffee.)
Q: How do I register for LifelineOnline?
A: LifelineOnline is our exclusive members-only website.
To register, please ask your Consultant for the weekly group password. Visit LifelineOnline by clicking on the link from www.slimming-world.com or clicking here
Click the register button. You'll be asked to complete a short registration form. We don't give or sell these details to anyone else - they're purely for us to recognise you each time you login.
You'll be asked for your e-mail address, which will become your username, along with a personal password - something memorable that you will use each time you logon. You'll also require the group password.
Handy hint: LifelineOnline is case sensitive. We recommend you register all in lowercase. Each time you logon, use all lowercase letters.
Q: I am trying to register but it keeps telling me there is a problem with my email address
A: If you share your e-mail address and the person you share it with has already registered for LifelineOnline, you will need to use a different e-mail address. The website recognizes each member by their individual e-mail addresses so it won’t let a second person register with the details. If you would like an e-mail address specifically for the purposes of using LifelineOnline Yahoo (http://www.yahoo.co.uk) and Hotmail (http://www.msn.com) both supply free e-mail addresses.
If it's unlikley that someone else has registered with your e-mail address, you may have already successfully registered. Please try to login using this e-mail address. If you're unsure about your password, please use the forgotten password link. The correct password will be e-mailed to you.
If you are trying to logon and are getting an error message, please check the other FAQs for possible solutions.
Q: Will I have to make drastic changes to the way I eat?
A: Make no mistake, even though there is nothing you cannot eat, you will be making changes to your eating patterns. It just won't have the associated pain and anxiety you may have come to expect from ‘dieting’ - because you won't be going hungry and you won't be checking / weighing / measuring / assessing every food you eat for its calorie / points content. That really is pure, old-fashioned, unenlightened, misinformed thinking and the best way to fail long-term. This isn't opinion, this is well-documented, evidence-based fact.
Q: I lead a very active social life - Is it possible to Food Optimise too?
A: Absolutely! Losing weight with Slimming World certainly doesn’t mean leading a hermit’s existence. Like you, we love our food and social life – we believe long-term success only comes when you can eat, enjoy and lose weight! Ask your Consultant for more information, or logon to LifelineOnline's 'useful features' section.
Q: What is Team Fun Tech? I'm quite shy, it's not audience participation is it?
A: It's a way of having fun in the group (and getting support, motivation and often learning more about food and healthy eating at the same time)! Usually the group is split into two teams with a little light-hearted competition based on weight loss and food ideas. You can just watch and enjoy the fun, or shout out your answers along with the rest - you certainly won't be put under the spotlight.
Q: Will exercising help my weight loss?
A: Becoming more physically active can certainly help you tone and get fitter whilst slimming, and help your weight loss.
Research shows that on average the addition of 3 to 4 moderate exercise sessions a week can add weight loss to a diet in the region of one to two pounds a month. That may not sound like a lot (and far less than you could achieve through Food Optimising alone) but it can add up to an additional one to two stones a year! It is important to remember though, that even if you are exercising it is still important to Food Optimise 100% to continue seeing a good weight loss.
It is true that muscle tissue weighs more than body fat, however body fat cannot turn into muscle and becoming more active will help you lose weight. You burn energy while active which contributes to weight loss and exercise also helps you lose body fat while retaining and strengthening muscles. And stronger muscles means a higher metabolism, so you will continually burn more energy even while at rest! Even though you will be strengthening your muscles while exercising you are unlikely to build extra muscles without spending hours a day lifting heavy weights, and even then it’s very unlikely you would see a gain week after week.
There's lots of evidence that activity is a very important factor in maintaining your weight loss. As you lose weight your metabolic rate gradually decreases in proportion to your reduced body size. But regular activity helps you maintain your muscle tissue and a higher metabolic rate, making it easier to keep off the weight you've lost.
Please talk to your group Consultant about any further questions or concerns you may have about your weight loss. They will be happy to help and have information regarding exercise and healthy rates of weight loss to help support you further.
Q: How can I find out more?
A: The best place to find out more about Food Optimising's Healthy Extras is one of our warm and friendly groups. As part of your membership you will receive a Food Optimising book which lists dozens of Healthy Extras.
Q: How are Healthy Extras decided?
A: The foods listed as Healthy Extras help to ensure that you get everything you need for a healthy, balanced diet by providing a daily intake of foods rich in fibre and calcium, vitamins and minerals.
Although some products sound as though they are suitable to be chosen as a Healthy Extras, for example brown rice, they don't contain enough fibre and/or calcium.
Q: Why change the spelling of Sins to Syns?
A: Over the years the word ‘Sins’ has been much loved but greatly debated. We wanted a new word unique to Slimming World. The word ‘Syns’ is short for ‘synergy’ and reflects the many ‘synergystic’ effects of Slimming World’s unique methods. The definition of synergy is:
‘the working together of two or more parts to produce an effect greater than
the sum of their individual effects.’
Slimming World is full of synergies, such as the fantastic way that Food Optimising, Image Therapy and Body Magic work together to give members their very best chance of lifetime success. Another great example of Slimming World synergies is how the three elements of Food Optimising – Free Food, Healthy Extras and Syns – work together to create the perfect lifestyle system for weight loss.
Q: I've reached my target - how do I maintain my weight?
A: To maintain your weight you can still follow the Food Optimising system. If you find you are still losing weight we do suggest that you increase your Healthy Extra B choices. You could try two or more extra a day to start with, but if you gain weight reduce to one. If you are still losing weight increase to three or four until you find your personal maintenance level, as it varies from one person to another.
Please don't hesitate to contact your group Consultant with any queries you have regarding your weight control. All our Consultants are fully trained to give you all the help and support you need for continued weight management success.
Q: I'm new to Food Optimising. Which option should I choose?
A: For help deciding which plan to follow, we recommend you speak to your Slimming World Consultant, who will be more than happy to guide you.
A brilliant way to begin Food Optimising is to try our Extra Easy plan.
Q: What is bodyOptimise?
A: bodyOptimise is Slimming World's online weight loss program that's perfect for:
· everyone who can’t get to one of our warm and friendly UK-based groups
· everyone who’s looking for a healthy, filling and delicious way to lose weight for good
· everyone who has internet access
Say goodbye to hunger and deprivation!
Bid farewell to faddy short-term ‘solutions’!
Say hello to bodyOptimise!
bodyOptimise membership includes:
· The secret of slimming without hunger - Food Optimising
· Instant Syns Calculator and Syns Online
· Over 1400 delicious Food Optimising breakfasts, lunches, dinners, starters, desserts and snack ideas.
· Your own Food Optimising menu creator.
· A 7-day starter plan of delicious Food Optimising menus – tailored to your personal tastes and preferences
· A unique support system that is so advanced, so profound, so empowering, that failure becomes a thing of the past.
Logon today at www.bodyoptimise.com
to discover the route to a brand new you – cool, confident, slim and sensational.
Free your dreams today.
Q: What is Free2Go?
A: Free2Go is a specially created healthy eating plan based on Food Optimising for younger members, aged 11-15. It includes a huge list of unlimited Free Foods and fibre and calcium-rich Healthy Extras for optimum health and satisfaction. Free2Go – with the help of fully trained Consultants – helps young members reduce the less healthy options by discovering cool swaps and healthy recipes. Our young members receive specially written books to help them make positive lifestyle changes, with the support of their family and with their doctor's recommendation as guidelines for their progress.
Q: I'm not losing weight - what can I do?
A: Unfortunately it is really impossible for us here at Slimming World Head Office to know why you are not losing weight. It must be very frustrating when you don’t lose weight and yet you feel that you are doing everything you should be doing.
We find the main reasons for not losing weight are:
• genuinely believing something to be a Free Food when it’s not
• inadvertently underestimating Syn values
• not checking Syn values before we eat (especially where branded products and convenience foods are concerned as these do vary enormously) or
• not weighing or measuring foods accurately where you need to.
It’s amazingly easy for one or more of these little things to temporarily slow down your weight loss. When it happens, members tell us they find it helpful to go to go back to basics with Food Optimising, double checking that Free Foods are in fact free and double checking measurements and Syn values. Although it’s tedious, it usually helps tremendously to write down everything you eat and drink on a Food Diary for a few days. With absolutely everything that passes your lips measured (if not Free) and written down, it often only takes a day or two to discover the problem. Making sure you eat plenty (and we mean plenty!) of Free Food and your Healthy Extras means you are more likely to ‘control’ the riskier Syns element!
Another very, very useful ‘self diagnostic’ tool is the Slimming World SAS log (Slimmers against Sabotage log). It’s a different and incredibly effective way of discovering what might be tripping you up. Ask your group Consultant to let you have a number of the logs for the week. Please do talk to your Consultant about your weight loss, they will be happy to help and fully trained to give you the help and support you need.
Q: I have IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), can I still lose weight?
A: Yes, Food Optimising is an ideal way to eat a healthy diet to lose weight. Many of our members with IBS have found the condition and their general health have improved significantly since beginning to Food Optimise. IBS is a very common condition (around one-third of the population are likely to suffer from it at some time) however, the term IBS covers a number of conditions and there is no single cause or treatment for it. Food Optimising allows you to choose the foods you want to eat, so you will be easily able to avoid or limit any foods you find aggravate your IBS symptoms. As with all medical conditions we recommend that you consult your doctor and always follow any treatment suggested by your doctor or hospital.
Q: Where can I get a food diary from?
A: Food diaries are only available from your Slimming World Consultant (during the first 4 weeks of membership, while you're learning to Food Optimise, or as a motivation tool as and when you need it) or in electronic format on our members' website, LifelineOnline. If you're a member of a Slimming World group, please ask your Consultant for the password and click the link on the homepage to register
If you can't get to a Slimming World group and would like to Food Optimise online, you may be interested in our online slimming programme bodyOptimise
Q: Can I have extra Syns if I exercise?
A: We believe the best way to manage your weight healthily is to combine a healthy weight-reducing diet with physical activity. We wouldn't recommend you 'cancel out' any of your Syns or use exercise as a means of allowing yourself more Syns. Rewarding for exercise by allowing yourself more Syns can result in poorer weight loss as it is human nature to overestimate how much energy you burn through exercise and very easy to overcompensate if you eat in reward for exercise.
For better weight loss results we recommend Food Optimising (100%!) as normal and increasing your activity levels. If you do feel hungry and need more food then we would suggest you make the most of all the Free Food available to increase your energy intake before opting for extra Syns.
Please don’t hesitate to contact your group Consultant with any further queries you may have. They will be happy to help and are fully trained to give you all the help and support you need.
Q: What happens when I reach the weight I wish to be? Can I still go to my group to check my weight?
A: Yes, we'd love to see you each week! So much so, that as a Target Member you will come to your group ABSOLUTELY FREE as long as you stay within 3lbs of your Personal Target Weight.
Q: Will I be hungry?
A: Absolutely not! Any slimming system that leaves you hungry is destined to fail. That's one of the reasons why having a limited number of calories / points fails again and again. Once you've run out of points, you have no choice but to go hungry or 'break' your diet. It's important to understand that you didn't fail, the diet failed you. Free Foods are an integral part of Food Optimising, and yes, you can eat as much of these foods as you like. When you become a member, you will gain access to a list of hundreds of Free Foods online, and tons of information to help ensure that you never go hungry again.
Q: I can't access my food diaries, can you help?
A: As long as you have saved your food diaries, you will be able to access them by clicking on 'view saved diaries' tab from the top right-hand side of the food diary page.
If you haven't pressed the 'save food diary' button, we won't have kept a record of your food diaries.
Q: Why aren't pureed/cooked/blended/juiced fruit Free?
A: When you juice, cook, puree/mash, stew or blend fruit, it makes it very easy to over-consume and is an effective way of adding a lot of extra energy in a non-filling form, which doesn’t satisfy your appetite in the same way as eating fresh whole/sliced fruit.
We count juiced, pureed and cooked fruit as Syns to protect members’ weight losses (see the Syns section in your Food Optimising book).
Please don’t hesitate to contact your Consultant with any queries regarding Food Optimising, he/she will be happy to help you and is also available to speak to outside of group hours.
Q: How do I access Syns Online?
A: Syns Online is only available to members of a Slimming World group, via LifelineOnline, or members of our online slimming programme, bodyOptimise.
If you are a member of LifelineOnline, you'll find a link to Syns Online in the homepage's 'quick find' drop down box (beneath the navigation). You'll also find Syns Online via the tab at the top right-hand side on the homepage and within the 'eat & slim' link.
Members of bodyOptimise can locate Syns Online from the 'recipes & menus' link or via the quick link on the bottom left-hand side of the homepage.
Q: How much can I eat?
A: With Food Optimising you eat until you're satisfied. You're actively encouraged to eat, as opposed to not eat. You're actively encouraged to fill your plate with normal, everyday foods that will satisfy the heartiest appetite. And the foods that we'll be asking you to choose first are also the foods that will give you maximum protection against cancer, heart disease, strokes, diabetes, high blood pressure and a whole range of health problems that are caused by poor nutrition.
Q: Do you have any advice for getting rid of loose skin?
A: We are aware of some members finding they have excess or loose skin after quite large weight losses, although this does vary from person to person and can depend on the amount of elasticity in the person's skin.
There are no specific exercise that would be better than others for preventing loose skin. However, all exercise - both aerobic and toning are good for toning your body whilst you slim and for your general health.
We always recommend members with significant amount of weight to lose aim to lose at a steady, healthy rate of around 1-2lbs a week and participate in regular physical activity whilst slimming, which can tone the underlying muscles and help prevent the appearance of excess skin.
We have been informed by medical advisors that cosmetic surgery can remove excess skin, but this can leave scarring. We find that many of our members learn to disguise excess skin with clothing or accessories. Do remember that your overall health and fitness will undoubtedly have benefited from your excellent weight loss.
Q: I’ve always counted a certain product as Free and I’m really pleased with my weight loss, is it okay to continue to count this product as Free?
A: If the product now only has a low Syn value and you continue to count it as Free Food and you’re still losing weight, then there’s no logical reason not to continue. However, if your weight loss slows or stops you may need to review your overall Syn count. Sometimes what we could ‘get away with’ in the earlier days changes as we lose more and more weight.
Q: Why don't you have weekly sample menus?
A: At Slimming World, we encourage members to achieve long-term success by discovering how to fit Food Optimising into their daily routine. Unlike many "diets" it is easy to Food Optimise and still enjoy your favourite food and drink. Whilst we supply a sample menu to help new members and visitors to the site, we encourage Food Optimisers to become relaxed and comfortable with their new pattern of eating. For many members' rigidly adhering to a sample menu will make for miserable meal times, and will eventually become intolerable.
For this reason, we chose to include a 7-day sample menu on the website as an example of Food Optimising, and to encourage non-members to discover more by joining a local group.
If you are happier having a menu to follow, Slimming World magazine features a regular Food Optimising menu, which provides suggestions for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks.
Q: I've been prescribed Xenical. Can I still attend a group?
A: We are not aware of any reason why you should not be able to continue attending your group and following Food Optimising whilst taking this medication.
Food Optimising can provide the healthy, low fat diet required when taking this weight loss medication and the combination of the medication and Food Optimising should help you achieve a very successful weight loss. However, as always we would encourage you to follow your doctors advice regarding any medications you have been prescribed and would suggest you to check with your doctor if you have any further concerns.
Q: Is Food Optimising the same as Food Combining?
A: No, Food Optimising is very different to food combining. Food combining is an extremely restrictive way of eating, which dictates that proteins and carbohydrates must not be eaten together in the same meal. The fact that many foods have both carbohydrates and proteins in them, goes some way to show how daft this way of eating really is. This bears no resemblance to Food Optimising where members have the freedom to choose from hundreds of Free Foods, including lean meat, fish and poultry, pasta, rice and grains, vegetables and fruit. Members enjoy favourites such as spaghetti Bolognese, curry and rice and cottage pie… and experience sensational slimming results!
Q: The navigation on the left doesn't work
A: If you experience any problems with the navigation, please use the text links at the bottom of each page to navigate between sections.
Q: What is Scan Bran and where can I buy it?
A: Scan Bran is Slimming World's abbreviation for the high fibre Bran Crispbread by G G Scandinavian, which is available to buy from your group Consultant, also from all good health food shops.
Q: I keep getting a message telling me that LifelineOnline is for members only - I am a member!
A: We've discovered that some PC software is creating a small problem for a few members. One of these is Zone Alarm, which is personal firewall software and we have found a fix for this; please select privacy>site list and uncheck the third party web bugs setting.
If you are seeing the message, but don't have this software installed, please check for other types of privacy/firewall software and contact your provider for further help
Q: Is it similar to anything else I might have tried?
A: Food Optimising is unique. It’s an approach to eating that is nutritionally and psychologically unparalleled and completely effective for long term weight loss.
Q: How do I access Syns Online?
A: Syns Online is only available to members of a Slimming World group, via LifelineOnline, or members of our online slimming programme, bodyOptimise.
If you are a member of LifelineOnline there is a link to Syns Online via the tab at the top of your homepage.
You'll also find Syns Online via the 'eat and slim' link on the navigation and from the 'quick find' drop-down box at the bottom of the homepage.
Members of bodyOptimise can locate Syns Online from the recipes & menus navigation.
Q: I have high cholesterol. Do I need to Food Optimise differently?
A: Having too much cholesterol in your blood can increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke, the good news is that one of the many health benefits our members report is a reduced cholesterol level.
Experts agree that dietary changes such as following a low-fat diet, eating plenty of fruit and veg and including Omega-3 fish oils in your diet can help reduce high cholesterol levels. Because Food Optimising positively encourages the consumption of plenty of fruit and vegetables on both choices, unlimited oily fish on the Original choice and naturally limits fatty food by allocating them Syn values, it provides a safe and sensible method of weight loss for members with high cholesterol. As with all medical conditions we recommend that you consult your GP and always follow any treatment suggested by your doctor or hospital.
Q: Can I add to or edit my online food diary from previous days?
A: You can add to or edit your online daily food diary entries within the current week, by clicking on the arrow at the side of the box marked ‘today’ on the main Food Diary page. A drop box will appear and you can select either 'today' or any of the previous 6 day’s diaries.
Q: I have a food allergy. Can I continue to Food Optimise?
A: Yes, unlike many other diets or eating plans, the generosity and flexibility of Food Optimising means it is suitable for practically every dietary requirement or preference. The good news is, because it allows you to choose the foods you wish to eat, it is easy to incorporate any specific requirement or preference.
As we are unable to give specific advice on individual medical conditions, including food allergies or intolerance we recommend that you seek professional medical advice from your doctor or a State Registered Dietician. They will be able to give you tailored advice for your needs, explaining exactly which foods you need to avoid or limit and how to still have a balanced and enjoyable diet whilst avoiding any problem foods. Your Consultant will be happy to help you Food Optimise within these guidelines.
Q: When printing out pages, information gets chopped off!
A: To print normal web pages from the website, we recommend that you set your printer to print in landscape mode and normal quality on A4 sized paper. If, in this format, the edges are being cut off, please check your margin settings and reduce them slightly. Your printer’s instruction manual should show you how to change these settings; I’m afraid we’re unable to provide assistance.
To reduce the amount of ink used when printing Slimming World pages (for personal use), please uncheck your 'print background colours and images' setting in your tools > internet options > advanced menu.
Q: How long do sessions last?
A: Usually an hour and a half.
Q: Printing recipes from the website uses loads of ink - how can I reduce this?
A: To reduce the amount of ink used when printing Slimming World pages (for personal use), please uncheck your 'print background colours and images' setting in your tools > internet options > advanced menu.
Q: I have a wheat intolerance. Can I Food Optimise?
A: Food Optimising does cater for members requiring a gluten or wheat-free diet. Unlike many other diets or eating plans, the generosity and flexibility of Food Optimising means that it is suitable for practically every dietary requirement or preference.
Your health carers will have no doubt informed you of the increasing number of specially manufactured wheat-free products now available. Slimming World aim to keep up to date with new and changing products, and you will be able to look up specific foods in our publications and on Syns Online, to see how they fit into Food Optimising.
We do find that one particular section of Food Optimising, Healthy Extras, often requires more careful consideration when following a gluten-free and/or wheat-free diet. In this section we encourage members to have a healthy fibre intake and many fibre-rich foods do contain gluten and/or wheat. However, there are a number of naturally gluten-free and wheat-free products available as Healthy Extras and we also have some additional options to provide greater choice for those members following a gluten or wheat-free diet. Your Slimming World Consultant would be happy to explain these options to you in your group.
Please note, we are unable to provide specific advice regarding medical conditions, including food intolerance, and always recommend members follow the advice and any specific dietary recommendations suggested by their doctor or dietitian. As Food Optimising is based on personal food choice, it should certainly be possible to incorporate any personal requirements, and your Consultant will be happy to help you with this.
Q: Can I lose weight whilst on the contraceptive pill?
A: We would like to reassure you that we do have many members who are losing weight very successfully whilst taking all sorts of different medication and treatments, including contraceptive pills. We are aware that some contraceptives can cause fluid retention, which can make it more difficult to see a weight loss at times. However, even if your weight shown on the scales tends to be more erratic due to fluctuations in fluid, your monthly weight loss should be good if Food Optimising 100%. There is a limit to the amount of fluid that can be gained in this way and members following Food Optimising will still be losing body fat, despite no change on the scales from time to time. The regular loss of body fat should soon start to show as a great weight loss on the scales!
Q: The Syn Value is different when I check it on the Syns calculator.
A: The nutritional information for the product may have changed. Please telephone the Syns Enquiry Hotline for the Syn value to be checked. The Syns Enquiry Hotline number is 09068 518 518 (UK only) and calls are charged at 60p per minute. The service is available Monday to Friday 9.00am – 7.00pm. Through this service, members are given the most up to date and accurate Syns information from our foods database which contains over 38,000 Syn values. As product formulations can change, please have the packaging of the product you’re querying on hand when you call so we can double-check that the information on the packaging corresponds with that on our database.
Alternatively, it may be that the nutritional information was entered into the Syns Calculator incorrectly or the wrong Free Food allowance was selected. It may be helpful if you click on the ? icons when using the Syns Calculator for some pointers on how to use it.
Q: Do your websites provide a message board or forum for members?
A: We have researched the use of forums and message boards on a variety of websites (slimming and otherwise) in depth over the last several years. Although many of the messages posted are generally supportive, the misuse of these boards is sadly evident. Some of this is done completely out of awareness – e.g. helpful hints about Food Optimising, if the basic information is incorrect, can send a member way off track; reading comments intended to be supportive can be interpreted very differently, especially if our self-esteem is already low.
Because slimming is such a personal and emotive subject, especially for those of us who are slimming, thoughtless comments and inconsiderate remarks (sadly it happens) can undo all the hard work that our members have done in plucking up the courage to start Food Optimising or begin a new activity. We have seen the damage and upset that message boards can do to both members and the company, and rather than put our members’ success and the future of the website in jeopardy, we have made the decision not to include any kind of forum.
Q: If I can't attend the same group each week, because I am a shift worker or work in different areas, can I go to a different group?
A: Yes, the support you get in your group is vital to your success. Shiftworkers should let their Consultant know in advance if they cannot attend, then they will not be charged. You will be welcomed at any of our groups nationally, whether you are working away or on holiday.
Q: Can I take my toddler along to Slimming World with me?
A: Do bring your child with you to the group if you cannot make other childcare arrangements. Your Consultant will appreciate it if you let her know and if you can bring some toys, colouring books or story books to amuse your child during the group. Many daytime groups have lots of young parents as members, and these will often have toys provided.
Q: Where can I update my e-mail address/name/postcode?
A: Please use the "Change details" link within the 'quick link' drop down box at the bottom left of your homepage. Alternatively, use the link in the 'My journey' navigation.
Q: I have arthritis. Can I Food Optimise?
A: Slimming World’s Food Optimising system helps members lose weight by following a healthy, balanced diet and can be of great benefit to general health. We are not aware of any specific dietary advice for arthritis, however we often get feedback from members whose health as improved since Food Optimising.
Unlike many other diets or eating plans, the generosity and flexibility of Food Optimising means that it is suitable for practically every dietary requirement or preference. Because Food Optimising allows you to choose the foods you wish to eat, it should be easy to incorporate any specific requirements or preferences. You would also receive plenty of support and encouragement to make healthy lifestyle changes for successful long-term weight control from your Consultant and group.
We are unable to comment or advise on individual medical conditions and we always recommend that members discuss their medical and any dietary needs with their doctor or registered Dietitian. We are sure your medical advisors will support and encourage you in your decision to manage your weight healthily. Should they suggest any specific dietary requirements then do take this information along to your groop. Your Consultant will help you incorporate this into your eating plan and of course give you plenty of support and encouragement to help you reach your weight loss goals.
Q: Will being on my period affect my weight loss?
A: Many of our members find that they tend to retain some fluid during the week of their period and unfortunately this can show as a lack of weight loss or even a weight gain. However, the fluid retention is only temporary.
As long as you are Food Optimising as normal you should still lose some body fat during this time and this should show as an even greater weight loss next week once your fluid levels have returned to normal.
Q: I work shifts - will Food Optimising be suitable for me?
A: Your shift patterns should cause no problems at all with Food Optimising. The beauty of Free Food is that you can eat as much of it as you want, therefore it doesn’t matter if you end up eating more than the regular ‘three meals a day’ or at unusual times of the day!
If you become a member of Slimming World and register with LifelineOnline, check out the features library for ideas for snack foods, ‘eating at work’ tips and loads of quick and easy recipes that are perfect for lunchboxes, flasks and microwaves!
Q: I’m getting a security message when I try to logon/register
A: If you're using Internet Explorer 4.0 or an original version of Internet Explorer 5.0, you may see an error message before proceeding to the next page stating "cannot connect to an expired server certificate."
We would like to reassure all our visitors that our Security Certificate is still valid and any data you use to access the Slimming World websites and/or provide during your visit will be transferred and kept securely, as per our terms and conditions.
To avoid seeing this message on future visits, you can either:
upgrade your browser to Internet Explorer 5.0 or higher (click tools>windows update to start the process) or
go to http://www.verisign.com/support/site/rootDoc.html
to manually install the new VeriSign Class 3 PCA Root (expiring in 2028) into your browser.
Q: I have tried to logon to the website but I cannot get in.
A: If this is the first time you’ve visited LifelineOnline, you will need to select the ‘register’ option. You’ll then begin a short registration process in which you’ll enter further information including your Username (email) and postcode. Once you've successfully registered then using the Logon button will give you access to the site in future.
If you’ve already registered, please make sure you are using the correct information to log on. The website is case sensitive. If you entered your email address and personal password in lowercase, you will need to replicate this when logging on. Please note, the group password must be entered in lowercase.
Clear your cache (Internet Temporary Files):
Most browsers store a temporary copy of every page you visit. Clearing your cache deletes those files and makes room for new ones. Follow the steps below to clear your cache - if your browser isn't listed, please visit the Help section on your browser provider's home page.
• For Internet Explorer: Select "Tools" from the top of the page, then "Internet Options" and then the "General" tab. Under "Temporary Internet Files", click "Delete Files". Click "OK" in the Delete Files dialogue box. Please note that if this has not been done regularly, it may take several minutes. When the files have been deleted, click "OK".
• For Firefox/Mozilla: Select "Tools" from the top of the page, then "Options" and click the "Privacy" button. On the Cache link, click the "Clear" button. Then click "OK".
Clear your cookies:
The problem may be caused by corrupted cookie files on your browser. Clearing your cookies should solve this. Follow the steps below to clear your cookies - if your browser isn't listed, please visit the Help section on your browser provider's home page.
• For Internet Explorer: Select "Tools" from the top of the page, then "Internet Options" and then the "General" tab. Under "Temporary Internet Files", click "Delete Cookies". Click "OK" in the Delete Cookies dialogue box. Please note that if this has not been done regularly, it may take several minutes. When the cookies have been deleted, click "OK".
• For Firefox/Mozilla: Select "Tools" from the top of the page, then "Options" and click the "Privacy" button. On the Cookies link, click the "Clear" button. Then click "OK".
Zone Alarm:
If you have Zone Alarm or something similar, please select privacy>site list and uncheck the third party web bugs setting.
If you’ve tried all the above and still can can’t log on, another reason may be that you haven’t visited Lifeline Online for over 6 weeks. If this is the case, your account may have been automatically removed. We regularly clear accounts from our database if they haven’t been accessed for 6 weeks to keep the website as fast-running as possible. Each time an account is due to be removed, we always inform the member by email to remind them to log on during the next few days to keep their account active. If your previous Lifeline Online account has expired, please feel free to re-register with your email address and group password to create a brand new account.
Q: Could fluid retention be slowing my weight loss?
A: We do find that some of our members may suffer from fluid retention now and again which can prevent a weight loss from showing on the scales or even possibly show as a weight gain. Many members find that around the time of their period, either just before or during, they may not see their usual weight loss, which is often due to changes in fluid levels around this time. However, the fluid retention should only be temporary and as long as you continue to Food Optimise 100% the loss of body fat should soon show on the scales once the fluid retention returns to normal.
Do have a chat with your Consultant about your concerns as she should be able to explain her comments in further detail. The other members in your group may also be able to help share their experiences and ideas to help you too.
Q: I'm feeling bloated - can you help?
A: Some members have told us that they felt a little bloated during their first week of Food Optimising.
If you're not used to eating large quantities of rice, pasta, potatoes, beans, fruit and vegetables, your system may need some time to get used to eating these types of food. These symptoms should subside as your body adjusts to your new way of eating, and as long as you are Food Optimising 100% you should see a good weight loss. Making sure you drink plenty of fluid each day can help too.
Please don’t hesitate to contact your group Consultant with any queries you have. They will be happy to help, they are contactable out of group hours and are fully trained to give you all the help and support you need
Q: I keep getting "Your session has expired" when I use LifelineOnline.
A: Unless there are long periods of inactivity between logging on and using the website, it sounds like this may be a browser or software incompatibility problem.
We have discovered that some PC software is creating a problem for some LifelineOnline members. The software we’ve heard about so far is Zone Alarm which is personal firewall software. Zone Alarm users: please select privacy>site list and uncheck the third party web bugs setting.
Q: Do I have to be a certain weight to join?
A: We are not in the business of telling people to lose weight. If we were, we'd be extremely unpopular! If you decide you want to lose weight, and choose the Food Optimising route, then we're with you all the way. Likewise, your target weight is set by you, and no-one else. What we're here to do is motivate and encourage you, bring you success stories to inspire you and recipes to keep your menus vibrant and appealing. However, if you have too little weight to lose we are unable to offer you membership. For your safety Slimming World has lowest acceptable weights that we will accept as a personal target. Your Consultant will be happy to explain more about Personal Achievement Targets and lowest acceptable target weights in the group.
Q: I've changed my email address. How do I get into LifelineOnline now?
A: You will need to logon to LifelineOnline using your old email address, group password and personal password.
Once you get to the homepage, click on 'My Journey > update my details' from the left-hand navigation. This will show you the current email address and enable you to change it.
Q: Could the menopause be affecting my slimming progress?
A: Medical experts inform us that there is little evidence that the menopause should be a direct cause of weight gain or inability to lose weight. Weight does tend to increase with age and many people tend to see an increase in weight particularly during young adulthood and middle age. This is thought to be primarily due to change in lifestyle and a gradual decrease in the amount of physical activity we do.
Increasing your level of physical activity can not only help weight loss by helping you expend more energy whilst active but it also helps preserve muscle tissue keeping your metabolic rate high.
If you want to give your weight loss a boost you may benefit from trying to incorporate more physical activity into your lifestyle (ask your Consultant about Body Magic!). Another way many of our members like to give their weight loss a boost is to include plenty of 'speed' foods in their daily Food Optimising plan. These are great foods to help satisfy the appetite and contain less energy than similar foods so can be a great help in giving your weight loss a kick start.
Q: I'm taking medication - will I lose weight?
A: We would like to reassure you that we do have many members who are losing weight very successfully whilst taking all sorts of different medication and treatments and we are not aware of any reason why the medication you mention would prevent you from losing weight. However, we always advise our members to check any concerns they have about their medication with their family doctor.
Please don't hesitate to contact your Slimming World Consultant with any queries you have regarding your weight control. All our Consultants are fully trained to give you all the help and support you need for continued weight management success.
Q: I'm using Lactulose - will it affect my weight loss?
A: Medical advisors have informed us that because medication such as this is not absorbed by the body it does not provide any energy, and therefore should not affect your weight loss.
Many members also ask whether it would have a Syn value but again, as it is not absorbed by the body it would not need to be counted as Syns.
Q: LifelineOnline won't let me in!
A: A red star will appear alongside the field that is incorrect.
If you're trying to register:
If you're trying to log on:
Q: Do I have to pay if I miss a week?
A: You are allowed to miss six weeks without charge in any year for holidays and illness; provided you tell your Consultant when you are going on holiday.
Q: Do you offer a home visit service?
A: No, but your Consultant is always only a phone call away. We also encourage members to use 'Lifelines' - the phone numbers of friends and other members you can contact for support when you need it.
Q: I'd like to re-set my LifelineOnline details. Can you help?
A: No problem! If you'd like to start again on LifelineOnline, please logon as normal. Visit the My Journey section, where you'll see a link saying 'restart my journey'. Click here to continue and re-set your details.
Please note, once clicked all your previous details will be deleted - My progress, awards, food diaries - it really is starting from scratch!
Q: I have an eating disorder. Can I join a group?
A: We feel that a Slimming World group may not be the best solution for your weight management at present. Although we would love to be able to help, eating disorders are not our area of expertise. We feel that for your long term health and safety you would be best supported by trained professionals in this field. We would encourage you to speak to your doctor or practice nurse regarding your weight concerns. They should be able to give appropriate guidance and possibly a referral to a specialist in this area.
Q: I'm taking anti-depressants - will I lose weight with Slimming World?
A: Slimming World have many members who are losing weight very successfully whilst taking all sorts of different medication, including anti-depressants. However, we are aware that some anti-depressants are reported to improve the appetite. The great news is that with Slimming World's Food Optimising system, there is always plenty of food to eat to satisfy the appetite - you never need run out food - and still lose weight. We do have many members who find they can easily satisfy their increased appetite while taking anti-depressants and still lose weight successfully over time. We always remind members that the worst thing they can do is think that there is no point in continuing to follow Food Optimising 100% while on a medication - as this is when they will gain weight.
Increasing your level of physical activity can also help you achieve a healthy weight loss and we do encourage members to think about becoming more active whilst slimming. You may be interested to learn that we have launched a physical activity programme in our groups, Body Magic. Body Magic is our support system to help members find their own personal, enjoyable and fun way of increasing their activity level. Further information is available from Slimming World Consultants. Another way many of our members like to give their weight loss a boost is to include plenty of 'speed' foods in their daily Food Optimising plan. These are great foods to help satisfy the appetite and contain less energy than similar foods so can be a great help in giving your weight loss a kick start. Your Slimming World Consultant will be able to show you more detail of our Food Optimising system and speed foods.
Q: I have a lactose intolerance. Is Food Optimising suitable for me?
A: Limiting intake of dairy products should not be a problem when Food Optimising - it's very generous and flexible and does not require you to stick to any set meal plans. Because you get to choose the foods you want to eat it should be suitable for all dietary requirements or preferences.
We do have a section within Food Optimising, Healthy Extras, which helps ensure you obtain a good source of calcium each day. Although this section does contain a number of dairy products, dairy-free choices such as soya or rice milk are also options.
Q: My group password won't work on LifelineOnline!
A: LifelineOnline is case sensitive and the group password must be entered all in lowercase. Please check your CAPS lock is off.
If this doesn't help, please check that you are spelling the password correctly - a small typo will prevent you from accessing the site.
The group password is only available from Slimming World Consultants and not Head Office. If you think you may have the wrong password, or been given the wrong password, please contact your Consultant. The contact details will be written in the front of your Food Optimising book.
Q: When does LifelineOnline's group password change?
A: The password you receive from your Slimming World Consultant is valid for a full week until your next meeting, whether you meet on a Monday or a Thursday.
This means you will only need to receive and remember one password each week.
Q: I'm told my cookies are disabled!
A: It sounds as though your PC settings may be stopping you from viewing the website properly. Each browser is different, so check the "Help" menu of your browser to learn how to change your cookie preferences.
Clear your cache (Internet Temporary Files):
Most browsers store a temporary copy of every page you visit. Clearing your cache deletes those files and makes room for new ones. Follow the steps below to clear your cache - if your browser isn't listed, please visit the Help section on your browser provider's home page.
• For Internet Explorer: Select "Tools" from the top of the page, then "Internet Options" and then the "General" tab. Under "Temporary Internet Files", click "Delete Files". Click "OK" in the Delete Files dialogue box. Please note that if this has not been done regularly, it may take several minutes. When the files have been deleted, click "OK".
• For Firefox/Mozilla: Select "Tools" from the top of the page, then "Options" and click the "Privacy" button. On the Cache link, click the "Clear" button. Then click "OK".
Clear your cookies:
The problem may be caused by corrupted cookie files on your browser. Clearing your cookies should solve the problem. Follow the steps below to clear your cookies - if your browser isn't listed, please visit the Help section on your browser provider's home page.
• For Internet Explorer: Select "Tools" from the top of the page, then "Internet Options" and then the "General" tab. Under "Temporary Internet Files", click "Delete Cookies". Click "OK" in the Delete Cookies dialogue box. Please note that if this has not been done regularly, it may take several minutes. When the cookies have been deleted, click "OK".
• For Firefox/Mozilla: Select "Tools" from the top of the page, then "Options" and click the "Privacy" button. On the Cookies link, click the "Clear" button. Then click "OK".
Zone Alarm:
If you have Zone Alarm or something similar, please select privacy>site list and uncheck the third party web bugs setting.
Q: How do I change my personal password on LifelineOnline?
A: Logon using your old password and registered username (email address). You'll also require your group password (available from your Consultant).
Once logged on, please use the 'Change details' link via the quick find drop down box at the bottom left of the home page. Alternatively, use the link from 'My journey' in the left-hand navigation.
If you're unable to logon because you've forgotten your old password, please use the forgotten password link on the logon page. You will require your username (email address) to do this.
Q: I can't get Syns Online to work properly!
A: There are some tricks to using Syns Online. Putting less into the search boxes generally produces more results, e.g. typing Kell will bring up Kellogg's as a manufacturer or Marks for Marks and Spencer. The same goes for products – using keywords, rather than typing the exact product name should be more fruitful and often quicker.
I'm afraid we're unable to respond to individual enquiries about Syns Online.
If you really get stuck, telephone the Syns Enquiry Hotline on 09068-518518 (UK only). Calls are charged at 60p per minute. The service is available Monday to Friday 9.00am to 7.00pm. As product formulations may change, please have the packaging of the product on hand when you call, so we can double-check that the information on the packaging corresponds with that on our database.
Q: Where can I buy a Syns Calculator?
A: The Syns Calculator is an online tool available to members of a Slimming World group (via LifelineOnline) or our online slimming service, bodyOptimise.
If you are a member of a Slimming World group, please click on the LifelineOnline links on the Slimming World website, type www.slimmingworld.com/lifelineonline in your web browser’s address bar or click on this link.
You will need to register with the site before you’re able to enter. This should only take a couple of minutes.
Once you reach the homepage, you’ll find the Syns Calculator button at the top right-hand side of your screen, or via the ‘eat & slim' link on the left-hand navigation.
I'm afraid a hand-held Syns calculator is not available.
Q: I've reset my details on LifelineOnline - how do I get them back?
A: I'm sorry, as we mention on the reset page, once clicked all your details are deleted so you can start your LifelineOnline journey again.
We're unable to retrieve your deleted information.
Q: I registered with LifelineOnline several months ago - why can't I login?
A: If you find that you can’t access the website because your password is incorrect, please double-check that your personal password is entered in exactly the same format that you first registered with and you are entering your group password all in lowercase letters. If there is an error with your password, you will see a link on the screen where you can ask for a password reminder to be emailed to you.
If you haven’t accessed Lifeline Online for over 6 weeks, your account may have been automatically removed. We regularly clear accounts from our database if they haven’t been accessed for 6 weeks to keep the website as fast-running as possible. Each time an account is due to be removed we always inform the member by email to remind them to log on during the next few days to keep their account active.
If your Lifeline Online account expires before you’ve had the opportunity to log-on, please feel free to re-register with your email address and group password to create a brand new account.
Q: How much does it cost to join LifelineOnline?
A: Great news! LifelineOnline is absolutely and exclusively FREE to Slimming World group members.
Ask your Consultant for the weekly group password and register today!
For a warm and friendly Slimming World group near you call 0844 897 8000 (UK), 01 656 9696 (Republic of Ireland) or visit our
website to find your nearest group.
Q: I'm not a member. Can I join LifelineOnline?
A: LifelineOnline is exclusively for Slimming World group members.
For a warm and friendly Slimming World group near you call 0844 897 8000 (UK), 01 656 9696 (Republic of Ireland) or visit our
website to find your nearest group
Alternatively, you are welcome to join bodyOptimise - unique slimming support at the touch of a button. Visit www.bodyoptimise.com or click here for further information.
Q: I've requested a password reminder and haven't heard back from you
A: If you have an AOL email address you may be currently experiencing difficulties receiving emails from us. This is due to AOL’s high-security SPAM filters. While we work with AOL to find a solution to this problem, you could create another email address specifically for the purposes of using LifelineOnline. Yahoo and Hotmail both supply free e-mail addresses.
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