SheMed Co-Founders: Olivia Ferro (25), Chloe Ferro (23)
In a world where weight management is too often reduced to fad diets and fleeting solutions, Chloe and Olivia Ferro, co-founders of SheMed, are rewriting the rules. Recognising the rising popularity and potential misuse of GLP-1 medications, they are leading the charge to ensure these drugs are prescribed responsibly by qualified medical professionals.
Their mission is to create a safer, evidence-based system that prioritises the well-being of women who need these treatments the most.
Since the advent of beauty columns, women have been caught in a cycle of cabbage soup diets, juice cleanses, and no-carb plans. These approaches have left millions of women frustrated, exhausted and unhealthy. Studies reveal that women spend an astonishing 6 to 17 years of their lives on diets.1,2 However, most diets are abandoned within just five weeks.3
Chloe and Olivia’s vision for SheMed was to disrupt this pattern with a bespoke, science-backed approach to weight management. SheMed provides a space built by women, for women, where individual health needs take centre stage. Their direct-to-consumer medical weight-loss programme is grounded in compassion, personalisation, and clinical expertise. From comprehensive blood analysis to data-driven insights, SheMed ensures each treatment plan is tailored to suit individual health requirements.
At the heart of SheMed’s mission lies a commitment to educating women about their health—starting with GLP-1s. These medications, which mimic hormones that regulate appetite and digestion, offer a promising solution for sustainable weight loss without the extreme restrictions of traditional diets. Research demonstrates their ability to stabilise blood sugar levels, making them a valuable tool for women seeking a healthier, more balanced approach to weight management.
GLP-1 medications are not without risks. When accessed by individuals who may not meet eligibility standards, these medications can lead to complications. In the UK, online pharmacies often provide GLP-1 drugs after minimal screening, such as a brief questionnaire or a photo submission—and sometimes without verifying the individual's weight at all. As a result, people may be left to administer their weekly doses without adequate support or oversight. This can lead to unmanaged side effects, which are crucial to address for safe and effective treatment.
Despite recent strides in women’s health, significant gaps in care persist. The UK government’s Women’s Health Strategy, launched in 2022, highlights these disparities and the urgent need for tailored healthcare solutions.4
“Many women feel that their health concerns are dismissed or overlooked,” says Olivia Ferro, Co-founder and CEO of SheMed. “We wanted to create a space where women’s health is the priority—not an afterthought.”
Through their work, Chloe and Olivia aim to empower women to take control of their health journeys while addressing how weight impacts overall well-being. The core basis of their strategy is to offer discrete, digital and immediate access care tools for women to use for UTIs, yeast infections, GLP-1 use and more.
Effective weight management has far-reaching benefits for women’s health:
SheMed’s comprehensive five-step process makes weight management accessible, supportive, and sustainable:
“Our mission is to empower women with the science, insights, and support they need to truly own their health journey,” says Chloe Ferro, Co-founder and CGO of SheMed. “We’re putting an end to fad diets and replacing them with evidence-based solutions that deliver real, lasting results.”
To learn more about how SheMed is transforming women’s health, visit shemed.co.uk and take the first step towards real, lasting wellness.
References
Healthy eating is fundamental to maintaining well-being, but with an overwhelming array of nutritional advice available, knowing where to start can be a challenge. One tool gaining attention for its simplicity and effectiveness is the Glycaemic Index (GI). This scale helps us understand how different foods influence blood sugar levels, offering insights into healthier eating patterns.
The GI is not just about blood sugar; its implications span weight management, energy balance, and even hormonal health. For women, these insights can be transformative, aiding in the management of conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and gestational diabetes, while also reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
This guide delves into the GI, explaining its relevance, practical applications, and its role in empowering women to make informed food choices. Let’s explore how understanding the GI can pave the way for better health and vitality.
The Glycaemic Index is a numerical scale (0–100) that ranks carbohydrate-containing foods based on how quickly they raise blood sugar levels. Foods are categorised into three groups:
For instance, pure glucose has a GI of 100, making it the benchmark against which all other foods are measured (Diabetes UK).
Misconceptions abound, such as “all carbohydrates are bad” or “low GI foods are always healthy.” While the GI is a valuable tool, it should be used alongside other nutritional considerations, such as fibre, protein, and overall food quality.
Women’s unique health needs make the GI particularly valuable. Here’s how understanding it can help:
Low GI foods, such as whole grains and legumes, help control appetite and reduce cravings, making them allies in weight loss or maintenance efforts. Research shows that diets rich in low GI foods are linked to lower BMI (NHS).
For conditions like PCOS, regulating blood sugar is crucial. High insulin levels, driven by high GI foods, exacerbate hormonal imbalances. A low GI diet can mitigate these effects and support hormonal health (NICE guidelines).
Low GI foods provide sustained energy, reducing mid-day fatigue and improving mood stability. For busy lifestyles, this can make a significant difference in productivity and overall well-being.
Women with gestational diabetes benefit immensely from a low GI diet, which helps stabilise blood sugar and ensures a healthier pregnancy for both mother and baby (NHS).
A diet rich in low GI foods lowers the risk of chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. These diseases disproportionately affect women, particularly post-menopause, making prevention strategies critical.
Combining low and high GI foods can balance the overall impact on blood sugar. For example:
Understanding the factors influencing a food’s GI can help you make better choices:
While the GI is helpful, it doesn’t account for portion sizes. Enter Glycemic Load (GL), which considers both the GI and the carbohydrate content of a serving. For example:
Using both GI and GL offers a nuanced understanding of a food’s impact on blood sugar.
The GI is just one piece of the puzzle. A healthy diet should also consider:
Encourage diversity in your diet by focusing on whole, unprocessed foods and incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense options.
For tailored advice, consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist. These professionals can create a personalised plan based on your unique needs, especially if managing conditions like PCOS or diabetes.
Resources:
The Glycemic Index is a practical and accessible tool that can empower women to make informed food choices. By prioritising low GI foods, you can improve energy, balance hormones, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. However, the GI is most effective when combined with a holistic approach to nutrition.
Why not start today? Experiment with adding low GI foods to your meals and observe the positive changes in your energy levels and overall health. For further support, download our Low GI Food List and Meal Plan to begin your journey toward better eating habits.
Sugar addiction is more than just an occasional craving for sweets; it's a dependence that can have significant repercussions on your health. In the United Kingdom, high sugar consumption has been linked to an increase in obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. According to the National Health Service (NHS), adults should consume no more than 30g of free sugars a day, yet many exceed this limit.
British women, in particular, face unique challenges when it comes to sugar addiction. A combination of stress from balancing work and family life, social expectations to indulge during gatherings, and the pervasive availability of sugary treats make reducing sugar intake a daunting task. Understanding these hurdles is essential in taking the first steps towards a healthier lifestyle.
Sugar addiction refers to the compulsive need to consume sugar-rich foods and beverages, often leading to adverse health effects. Unlike natural sugars found in fruits and vegetables, added sugars provide no nutritional benefit and can lead to a cycle of cravings and temporary satisfaction.
When you consume sugar, your body experiences a spike in blood glucose levels. This triggers the release of insulin to help cells absorb the glucose. Frequent spikes can lead to insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. Moreover, excessive sugar intake can lead to weight gain as excess glucose is stored as fat.
Sugar impacts the brain's reward system by releasing dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This mechanism is similar to how addictive drugs affect the brain, leading to repeated cravings for that pleasurable feeling.
The brain's reward system is designed to promote behaviours essential for survival, like eating. Sugar hijacks this system by triggering dopamine release, reinforcing the desire to consume more sugar. Over time, more sugar is needed to achieve the same dopamine response, leading to increased consumption.
Recognising sugar addiction is the first step towards overcoming it. Common signs include:
Self-Assessment Quiz
Answer the following questions to assess your relationship with sugar:
If you answered "yes" to two or more questions, you might be experiencing sugar addiction. For personalised advice, consider consulting a healthcare professional.
Sugar addiction significantly increases the risk of developing chronic health conditions:
Excessive sugar consumption can lead to insulin resistance. According to Diabetes UK, over 4.9 million people in the UK have diabetes, with type 2 accounting for about 90% of cases. Women are particularly at risk due to hormonal factors affecting insulin sensitivity.
High sugar intake contributes to obesity, high blood pressure, and inflammation—all risk factors for heart disease. The British Heart Foundation notes that heart disease is the leading cause of death among women in the UK.
PCOS is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. Insulin resistance plays a key role in its development. Reducing sugar intake can help manage PCOS symptoms, as highlighted by the NHS.
Sugar addiction can wreak havoc on hormonal balance:
High sugar intake can exacerbate PMS symptoms by causing rapid fluctuations in blood sugar levels, leading to mood swings and irritability.
Insulin resistance from excessive sugar can interfere with ovulation, leading to irregular menstrual cycles.
There is a strong correlation between sugar intake and mental health issues:
A study published in the journal Scientific Reports found that high sugar consumption is associated with an increased risk of depression in adults.
Fluctuating blood sugar levels can lead to irritability and sudden mood changes. Stabilising sugar intake helps maintain a balanced mood throughout the day.
The mental health charity Mind emphasises that a balanced diet low in added sugars can improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Implementing these strategies can help reduce sugar intake and improve overall health. Remember, it takes about 3-4 weeks to break a habit, so be patient and persistent in your efforts.
Overcoming sugar addiction is a challenging journey, but with the right knowledge and resources, it's entirely achievable. By understanding the impact of sugar on your health, implementing gradual changes, and seeking support when needed, you can take control of your cravings and enhance your overall well-being. Remember, every small step towards reducing sugar counts. Start your journey today and embrace a healthier, happier you.
Embarking on a weight loss journey is a commendable decision that can significantly improve your overall health and well-being. However, the path to achieving your weight loss goals is often laden with challenges, one of which is navigating the complex world of food labels. For many British women, understanding these labels can feel overwhelming due to unfamiliar terms, misleading claims, and confusing portion sizes. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify food labels, empowering you to make informed dietary choices that align with your weight loss objectives.
Understanding how to read and interpret food labels is not merely about counting calories; it's about gaining insight into the nutritional content of the foods you consume and how they impact your body. The NHS emphasises that being informed about your food choices is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight and preventing chronic diseases. This knowledge can help you make healthier food decisions and reduce the risk of conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
This guide is tailored specifically for British women who are determined to lose weight and adopt healthier eating habits. Let's embark on this journey together, starting with the basics of decoding food labels.
Food labels provide a wealth of information, but they can be tricky to interpret. Let's break down the key components and understand how each affects your weight loss journey.
Understanding Serving Sizes
The serving size listed on a food label is a standardised amount used to quantify the nutritional information provided. It's essential to recognize that this serving size may not reflect the portion you typically consume. Misjudging serving sizes can lead to unintentional overeating, derailing your calorie control efforts.
For example, if a packet of crisps lists a serving size of 25 grams, but you consume the entire 50-gram packet, you're ingesting double the calories and nutrients listed.
Accurate awareness of serving sizes is crucial for:
Let's examine common discrepancies between serving sizes and actual consumption:
To accurately calculate total calories:
For instance, if a cereal provides 120 calories per 30g serving, consuming 60g means you've ingested 240 calories.
The Daily Value percentages indicate how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet based on a 2,000-calorie reference. However, individual caloric needs vary based on age, sex, weight, height, and activity level. For weight loss, you may be consuming fewer calories, making these percentages less precise for your situation.
Tip: Use the DV as a general guideline rather than a strict rule.
Macronutrients—carbohydrates, proteins, and fats—are the primary sources of energy in our diet. Understanding their roles can help you balance your intake for optimal weight loss results.
Carbohydrates are the body's preferred energy source, but the type and quantity you consume can affect your weight loss progress.
Choosing the Right Carbs
Protein is essential for repairing tissues and building muscle, which is particularly important when losing weight to ensure you're shedding fat, not muscle mass.
High-Protein Foods
Dietary fats are necessary for hormone production, nutrient absorption, and cell health.
Incorporating Healthy Fats
Source: British Dietetic Association
According to the NHS, the recommended daily calorie intake for weight loss is 1,400 calories for women and 1,900 calories for men. These targets are designed to create a calorie deficit of about 600 calories per day from the average recommended daily intake, which is typically 2,000 calories for women and 2,500 calories for men.
When aiming for weight loss, it's important to focus on the quality of food consumed, not just the calorie count. The NHS Eatwell Guide recommends that a balanced diet should include:
While counting calories can be helpful, it's not the only approach to weight loss. Adjusting portion sizes and ensuring meals consist of the right types of food can also be effective. It's crucial to remember that individual needs may vary, and consulting with a healthcare professional for personalised advice is recommended when making significant changes to your diet.
Excessive sugar intake is a significant barrier to weight loss, often hidden in foods you might not expect.
Added sugars may appear under various names, including:
Note: Always check the ingredients list for these terms to identify added sugars.
The SACN advises that free sugars should not exceed 5% of your daily energy intake. For an average woman, this equates to:
The ingredients list reveals everything that's in your food, offering insights into its quality and nutritional value.
Product: Fruit-Flavoured Yogurt
Common Allergens Include:
Source: Food Standards Agency
Tip: If you have food allergies or intolerances, always read the ingredients list carefully, even on products you've purchased before, as recipes can change.
Understanding food labels is a crucial step, but incorporating that knowledge into daily habits is where real progress happens.
The Importance of Mindful Eating
Mindful eating encourages a healthier relationship with food by focusing on the experience of eating and listening to your body's hunger cues.
Source: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
The Role of a Registered Dietitian
Registered dietitians are qualified health professionals who provide evidence-based dietary advice tailored to your individual needs.
Achieving weight loss success is a multifaceted journey that extends beyond mere calorie counting. By mastering the skill of reading and interpreting food labels, you empower yourself to make informed dietary choices that support your health goals. Remember:
Embarking on this journey may seem daunting, but every small step brings you closer to your goals. Celebrate your progress, stay committed, and remember that making informed food choices is a powerful tool for achieving lasting weight loss and improved health.
For many British women seeking to shed a few pounds, the role of dairy in weight loss can be a confusing topic. With conflicting information circulating about whether to include or avoid dairy products in a weight loss diet, it's essential to explore the evidence and understand how dairy might impact your weight loss journey. This comprehensive guide will delve into the relationship between dairy consumption and weight loss, examining both potential benefits and drawbacks, to help you make informed decisions about incorporating dairy into your diet.
At its core, weight loss is fundamentally about creating a calorie deficit – burning more calories than you consume. Dairy products, like any food, contribute to your overall calorie intake. However, their impact on weight loss is more complex than simply counting calories.
Dairy products contain a mix of macronutrients that can play different roles in weight management:
One of the most intriguing aspects of dairy's potential impact on weight loss is its calcium content. Research suggests that calcium may play a role in regulating fat storage and promoting thermogenesis (heat production in the body)[4].
A study led by Dr Michael Zemel at the University of Tennessee found that individuals on a reduced-calorie diet who consumed three servings of dairy per day lost more weight and body fat than those who ate less dairy[5] . However, it's important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind this relationship.
One of the key advantages of including dairy in a weight loss diet is its potential to increase feelings of fullness, which may lead to reduced overall calorie intake. A meta-analysis published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consumption of dairy products, particularly yoghurt, was associated with increased satiety and reduced subsequent food intake[6] .
Maintaining muscle mass is crucial during weight loss, as muscle tissue burns more calories than fat tissue, even at rest. The high-quality protein found in dairy products can help preserve muscle mass during calorie restriction. A meta-analysis published in Nutrients found that increased dairy intake as part of energy-restricted diets resulted in greater fat loss while attenuating lean mass loss in adults aged 18-50[7].
While dairy contains beneficial nutrients, it's important to be mindful of the sugar content, particularly in flavoured yoghurts and milk drinks. The NHS recommends choosing unsweetened or lower-sugar options when possible[8] .
Full-fat dairy products can be high in saturated fat, which may contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. The NHS advises choosing lower-fat options, such as semi-skimmed or skimmed milk, when trying to lose weight[9] .
For some individuals, dairy consumption can lead to digestive discomfort due to lactose intolerance or milk allergies. These sensitivities can impact overall diet quality and potentially hinder weight loss efforts. If you suspect you may have a dairy sensitivity, it's advisable to consult with your GP or a registered dietitian[10].
For those who cannot or choose not to consume dairy, there are several alternatives that can provide similar nutritional benefits:
While dairy can be a beneficial component of a weight loss diet, it's crucial to remember that sustainable weight loss relies on a balanced diet and regular physical activity. The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, along with strength exercises on two or more days a week.
The relationship between dairy consumption and weight loss is complex and can vary between individuals. While some studies suggest that dairy may have beneficial effects on weight loss, particularly when part of a calorie-restricted diet, the evidence is not conclusive.
For most British women, including low-fat dairy products as part of a balanced, calorie-controlled diet is likely to be beneficial for weight loss efforts. However, it's essential to consider individual factors such as lactose tolerance, overall diet quality, and personal preferences.
Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to weight loss. If you're unsure about how to incorporate dairy into your weight loss plan, or if you have specific health concerns, it's always best to consult with a registered dietitian or your GP for personalised advice.
We'd love to hear about your experiences with dairy and weight loss. Have you found dairy products helpful in your weight loss journey? Or have you had success with dairy alternatives? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
1 Leidy, H. J., Clifton, P. M., Astrup, A., Wycherley, T. P., Westerterp-Plantenga, M. S., Luscombe-Marsh, N. D., ... & Mattes, R. D. (2015). The role of protein in weight loss and maintenance. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 101(6), 1320S-1329S.
2 NHS. (2020). Fat: the facts. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-types/different-fats-nutrition/
3 NHS. (2019). Lactose intolerance. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/lactose-intolerance/
4 Zemel, M. B. (2004). Role of calcium and dairy products in energy partitioning and weight management. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 79(5), 907S-912S.
5 WebMD. (2004). Calcium: Drink Milk, Lose Weight? Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/diet/news/20040416/calcium-dairy-weight-loss
6 Lluch, A., Hanet-Geisen, N., Salah, S., Salas-Salvadó, J., L'Heureux-Bouron, D., & Halford, J. C. G. (2010). Short-term appetite-reducing effects of a low-fat dairy product enriched with protein and fibre. Food Quality and Preference, 21(4), 402-409.
7 Stonehouse, W., Wycherley, T., Luscombe-Marsh, N., Taylor, P., Brinkworth, G., & Riley, M. (2016). Dairy Intake Enhances Body Weight and Composition Changes during Energy Restriction in 18–50-Year-Old Adults—A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients, 8(7), 394.
8 NHS. (2020). Sugar: the facts. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-types/how-does-sugar-in-our-diet-affect-our-health/
9 NHS. (2020). Milk and dairy nutrition. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-types/milk-and-dairy-nutrition/
10 NHS. (2019). Food allergies. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/food-allergy/ NHS. (2019). Exercise. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/
Cravings can often feel like a relentless hurdle on the journey towards healthier eating habits. For many women, the temptation of a biscuit with a cup of tea or a late-night nibble can be all too familiar. Understanding why cravings occur and how to manage them is crucial in maintaining a balanced diet without feeling deprived. This comprehensive guide delves into the science behind cravings and offers practical strategies to help you conquer them effectively.
Cravings are intense desires for specific foods, typically high in sugar, salt, or fat. Unlike true hunger, which arises from the body's need for energy and nutrients, cravings are often driven by psychological factors and environmental cues.
Persistent or intense cravings might signal underlying health issues, such as:
If you're experiencing unusual or persistent cravings, it's important to consult your GP to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Understanding the possible meanings behind your cravings can help you address the root cause rather than just the symptom.
Cravings are often tied to emotions. Recognising this link is key to managing them.
Understanding these potential meanings can guide you to make healthier choices that satisfy your body's true needs.
Managing cravings isn't about willpower alone; it's about adopting strategies that address the underlying causes.
Mindful eating is the practice of paying full attention to the experience of eating and drinking.
Adequate hydration is essential for overall health and can help reduce unnecessary cravings.
Identifying and addressing the emotional or physiological needs behind your cravings is crucial.
Your environment significantly influences your eating behaviours.
An overly restrictive diet can backfire, leading to increased cravings and feelings of deprivation.
A diet rich in whole foods can naturally curb cravings by providing the nutrients your body needs.
Consuming a variety of nutrient-dense foods supports satiety, stabilises blood sugar levels, and reduces the likelihood of nutrient deficiencies that may cause cravings.
Including these nutrients in your diet can help control appetite and reduce cravings. The British Nutrition Foundation offers guidelines on balanced eating.
Satisfying cravings doesn't mean you have to compromise on health. Making smart swaps can fulfil your desires while nourishing your body.
These alternatives not only address cravings but also contribute beneficial nutrients to your diet.
Regular physical activity can help reduce stress and regulate appetite hormones.
Sharing your goals with others can provide motivation and accountability.
Techniques that promote relaxation can help manage stress-related cravings.
Quality sleep is essential for hormonal balance and appetite control.
Cravings are a natural part of life, but they don't have to derail your healthy eating goals. By understanding the causes of your cravings and implementing mindful strategies, you can manage them effectively. Remember, it's not about perfection but about making gradual, sustainable changes that support your well-being. Embrace a balanced approach to eating, where all foods can fit, and focus on nourishing your body and mind.
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