I put on weight during the pandemic and now I’m struggling to lose it

DEAR DEIDRE: DURING the pandemic, I ate so many Chinese takeaways that I put on six stones - and now I can’t lose it.

I’m obese and it’s making me feel embarrassed and miserable, as well as causing joint problems. I want to lose weight but don’t know how.

I’m a 42-year-old man, who was always slim - until I found myself stuck at home during the lockdowns.

On furlough, with nowhere to go, and little to do, I comfort ate. I’d have takeaways every day, and I did virtually no exercise. 

By the time the lockdowns were over, I was so overweight, it was too hard to exercise. And I was addicted to takeaways.

Now I work from home, and the weight hasn’t shifted.

I live alone and don’t know how to cook healthy meals for myself that are quick and cheap. 

And I do want to exercise but I can’t face going to a gym where everyone else has a honed body and will stare at me.

I’m worried I’ll injure myself, as my joints hurt.

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DEIDRE SAYS: Before you attempt any weight loss plan or exercise, talk to your GP to make sure it’s safe.

There are lots of weight loss methods available, from diets, to meal replacements, fasting plans, to drugs and injections and even surgery. 

You can discuss with your GP what is most suitable. 

Save the takeaways for a treat and throw out processed foods and sugary snacks. Try to eat lots of fruit and vegetables and lean proteins, like chicken and fish. 

My support pack on Weight Worries should help.

As for exercise, start by taking gentle walks. Perhaps you could join a walking club, where you’ll meet new friends too.