Stress and weight: what a health coach has to say

Stress: it’s the uninvited guest that shows up unannounced, lingers too long, and disrupts almost every aspect of life, including your weight. Whether it’s juggling work deadlines, financial worries, or the ever-present mental load of daily responsibilities, stress is more than just a feeling; it has a profound impact on the body, particularly when it comes to weight gain and weight loss.

Stress and weight: what's the link?

Stress often feels like an unavoidable part of life; from workplace deadlines to financial pressures, family responsibilities to the constant notifications on our phones, the body is often in a heightened state of alert. While most people associate stress with anxiety, tension, or sleepless nights, its effects go much deeper.

5 alternatives to snail caviar when you're on GLP-1s

You don’t have to indulge in snail caviar or fried quail’s egg like Jeremy Clarkson to succeed in your weight loss journey. Let's break down some simple tips to help you succeed with insights from Zoe, Numan’s VP of Behavioural Medicine.

Meat-eaters vs. vegans: how their guts compare

The gut microbiome is one of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, forces shaping our health. It’s a vast ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, and other microbes living in our digestive tract, influencing everything from digestion to immune function, mental health, and even the risk of chronic diseases.1 But does what we eat determine the kind of microbes that thrive inside us? And do meat-eaters, vegetarians, and vegans have fundamentally different microbiomes?

Can your gut microbiome predict your lifespan?

The secret to ageing well might not just lie in genetics, diet, or exercise. It could be in your gut. Scientists are increasingly uncovering how the trillions of bacteria residing in your digestive system influence everything from inflammation to brain health, and ultimately, how well you age.1 Understanding the gut microbiome and its role in ageing could be a gateway for improving longevity and preventing age-related diseases.

Does what you eat affect your stress levels?

Have you ever noticed that when you’re stressed, your stomach feels uneasy? Maybe you experience bloating, indigestion, or even more severe gut issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This is because your brain and gut are directly connected through what’s called the brain-gut microbiome (BGM) system. Scientists are learning that the trillions of bacteria living in your gut (your microbiome) do much more than help digest food, but also play a crucial role in your mental health.1

How a gut-healthy diet affects your heart

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, with millions of people affected by conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity. While traditional risk factors such as genetics, exercise, and diet have long been recognised, emerging research suggests that the gut microbiome - the trillions of bacteria living in our digestive system - plays yet another important role in the body to help support heart health.1 The latest evidence shows that following a gut-friendly diet can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) by influencing cholesterol levels, reducing inflammation, and improving metabolic health.1

A simple guide to stop your pen from jamming

If you don’t follow these key steps your pen may jam. A jammed pen is not only frustrating but can waste your medication.

Taking a deep dive into Calocurb

New research is constantly shaping our understanding of food and hunger. One study recently published explores the role of bitter plant extracts, particularly those derived from New Zealand-grown hops. A recent study investigated whether a bitter hops extract (Amarasate®) could influence hunger and food cravings during fasting.1 The findings add to a growing body of research examining how natural compounds interact with digestion and appetite regulation.

How women are conquering weight challenges with Numan

Losing weight can often feel like an uphill battle, especially for women navigating challenges such as menopause and PCOS. Yet Philippa, Sam, Oluchi, and Jessica’s stories show that while everybody’s health journey is different, progress is always possible.

The role of muscle in weight loss: beyond the scale

When it comes to losing weight, it's crucial to understand the importance of building and maintaining muscle. Weight loss efforts often lead to muscle loss, which can be counterproductive to achieving long-term health. Strong muscles enhance your body's metabolic efficiency and play a vital role in overall health.1

The obesity paradox: understanding metabolically healthy obesity

While obesity is often a red flag for potential health problems, not everyone with excess weight experiences these issues. Some people are considered "metabolically healthy obese" (MHO).

When you lose weight, where does it actually go?

In the world of weight loss, myths and misconceptions are all the rage. If you've been under the impression that fat is converted into muscle or takes a one-way trip down the toilet, it's time for a rethink.

The science behind teamwork in weight loss

Working together as a team can make a big difference in how successful people are at losing weight, especially when it comes to sticking to diet and exercise plans.

PCOS and insulin resistance: what’s the link?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting many women of reproductive age. Characterised by symptoms like irregular menstrual cycles and elevated androgen levels, PCOS is further complicated by a significant metabolic component: insulin resistance.

Have we turned the tide on obesity in the UK?

For decades, obesity has been one of the most pressing public health challenges. However, recent NHS data reveals a remarkable shift: obesity rates in England have stabilised for the first time in twenty years.¹

Managing side effects when taking GLP-1 medications

Starting a new medication can often come with side effects, especially when you first begin treatment or increase your dose. If you’re taking GLP-1 medications, it’s important to understand these potential side effects and know how to manage them.

John: managing type 2 diabetes and Numan’s Weight Loss Programme

After years of pounding the drums, John’s next goal was dropping the pounds. A self-employed drummer and vocalist who spent over two decades playing for the military, John recently faced a new challenge: managing type 2 diabetes.