Finding a better balance: how Toby changed his approach to healthy eating
08th Sep 2026, Real stories
Toby, 45, lives in Tilsworth and joined Choose You, looking to make some positive changes to his health and wellbeing, including reaching a healthier weight.
He felt like he was making healthy choices, but after joining the programme, he realised there was a lot of misinformation out there.
“I thought I was eating quite healthily, but looking back after doing the course, I wasn’t. It opened my eyes to what some so-called healthy food contains and how it can affect your body.”
Toby had tried a few approaches to managing his weight over the years but found it difficult to achieve results that lasted.
Taking the first step
After talking with his GP, Toby was recommended Choose You’s healthy weight programme.
“I chose not to use the weight loss jabs, so my GP recommended Choose You. Being honest, I wasn’t holding out much hope because I thought I was already doing lots of things right. In hindsight, it’s helped me massively.”
Finding support that fits around life
Toby joined the digital programme, which worked well around his job and family commitments.
“When I joined the online course, everyone was friendly. Everything was clear, simple and easy to understand. There was no pressure and no judgement. What stood out most was the supportive environment. I liked that they didn’t talk down to you. If you had a bad week or a takeaway, nobody was shaking their head at you. Everyone understood that there are ups and downs and that blips happen”
Toby joined the online groups, but he still felt connected and supported.
“Even though I didn’t meet people in person, we learned a lot from each other. We shared ideas, listened to feedback and supported one another. We met once a week, and it felt like a really supportive space.”
Learning about what’s in food
One of the most useful parts of the programme for Toby was learning about nutrition and balance.
“We talked about protein, having your five a day, different types of fats, and having everything in proportion. I thought I was having enough protein, but I wasn’t. Once I made changes, it really helped with my weight loss. It wasn’t about cutting things out completely; it was about understanding what your body needs.”
Toby particularly valued how information was delivered and the useful hints and tips that were shared.
“The way they explained things was never overcomplicated. If something was difficult, they’d break it down. They always asked people what they knew first so we could talk about it and share our views if we wanted to. They also suggested some great apps; one I use all the time, it helps me to check products and see what’s really in them, like salt, sugar and additives. That was a real eye opener.”
Small changes brought sustainable changes
Rather than feeling restricted, Toby found a way of eating that felt realistic and sustainable.
“You don’t have to be hungry or starve yourself to lose weight. You don’t have to miss out on the foods you enjoy. I’ve always been a little larger, and I’ve tried different diets. With most of them, I felt like I was missing out and they never really stuck. This programme feels different because it’s about balance.”
Looking ahead with confidence
Toby has noticed significant improvements to his health and wellbeing, and everyday life, including the time he spends with his daughter.
“My knees don’t hurt as much, I don’t wake up feeling sluggish, and I have much more energy. Before the programme, I was still active, but my joints were painful, and it was affecting my day-to-day life. We’ve gone back to what we used to do. We go for walks, bike rides, get outdoors and spend less time sitting in front of the TV, enjoying our time together.”
Toby’s fresh start
Rather than focusing on a single target weight, Toby is concentrating on smaller milestones along the way.
“I’ve set myself small goals, and I’ve been achieving them. I’m consistently losing weight. I’m in the routine now, in the mindset, and I know what I want to eat. Nothing is restricted. I can still eat rice, pasta and bread; it’s just about moderation.”
Would he recommend the programme?
Absolutely. Toby shares that the programme has changed the way he thinks about food and healthy eating. He’s already recommended the programme to friends.
“It’s been eye-opening. I thought I knew what healthy food looked like, and I tried for years to lose weight. I’d highly recommend the programme.”
Ready to make a change?
Choose You offers free, local support to help you build healthier habits that last. Find out more about our in-person healthy weight programmes and digital support options