WE are constantly bombarded with the latest information about coronavirus and we can now add being overweight to the list of underlying health issues which can make us more susceptible to the virus.

Time for action and while it’s good to hear that gyms have been allowed to reopen, they won’t be able to run at full capacity for a while yet and they certainly won’t be offering discounts on memberships. Here are some DIY dieting options with won’t hit your wallet.

Goal setting for weight loss

Making goals measurable helps us to stick with it, but they don’t have to be all about weight. Muscle mass weighs heavier than fat, so measuring vital statistics and re-measuring on a weekly basis will prove that our body may be toning up even though the bathroom scales don’t tell the same story.

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The big three free providers

The NHS is the best place to start and for anyone with underlying health issues, it’s a good idea to check with the GP before embarking on a diet or exercise programme.

Currently, doctors can offer subsidised nine month Weight Watchers memberships to patients who are at risk of type 2 diabetes. The NHS works with other weight loss specialist providers and provides its own downloadable weight loss plan free to anyone. Visit nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-weight/start-the-nhs-weight-loss-plan/

Diabetes UK provides daily menus with recipes and a whole host of other information to help us drop those extra pounds and consequently reduce the risk of acquiring the dreaded type 2. Visit https://bit.ly/3kOcWrq

The British Heart Foundation is here to help with a website packed full of information about healthy heart lifestyles. Visit https://bit.ly/310BR37

Whichever you choose, good luck.