Diet and exercise changes you need to make in midlife

Saturday, October 19, 2024

Welcome!

It has been another week of headline-grabbing news about Ozempic and the new generation of weight loss drugs. On Tuesday, the health secretary Wes Streeting announced a trial that will look at the effects of this weight-loss treatment in getting people off benefits and into work – as well as in reducing demands on the NHS. Streeting cautiously talks about "the long-term benefits of these drugs", but says: "For many people, these jabs will be life-changing". 

Anna Magee looked at exactly how much these weight-loss drugs can change someone's life – and also what happens when you come off them here. Meanwhile, Flic Everett considered the other amazing side effects that doctors are reporting from other trials, such as helping patients give up drinking and smoking, as well as helping to tackle depression and even dementia. 

This week was also menopause awareness week and after a huge response to our piece on the real scandal when it comes to HRT, health writer and menopause expert Alice Smellie reported on the eight diet and exercise changes every woman in midlife should make to ease symptoms. 

And while insomnia is a symptom of menopause, it is certainly not confined to those going through it, which is why everyone seems to be taking magnesium these days. But does it really work? Our wellness columnist Nicola Elliot gives her verdict on the science here. 

Until next week!

Vicki Harper

Assistant Editor

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