Nutritionist Dr Sarah's top four weight-loss tips

Sports nutritionist Dr Sarah Schenker, who works with elite athletes and professional footballers, says that as well as following her gym plan (see The real reason you're not losing weight at the gym), the following points will also aid weight loss:

ONE. PRIORITISE FOOD THAT NOURISHES YOU

Sarah says: "People usually eat for the sake of ‘refuelling’. We are human-beings, not cars, our bodies store enough fuel, that we don’t need to keep pumping ourselves with food. Prioritise eating things that contain the right minerals, vitamins and nutrients."

TWO. STOP SNACKING

Sarah says: "We have an embarrassing habit in the UK where people cannot get through a day without snacking. When you are trying to lose weight, it's perfectly acceptable to feel hungry, so just avoid the temptation of snacking, especially on fake healthy foods just as cereal bars and energy balls etc."

THREE. EXERCISE FIVE TIMES A WEEK

Sarah says: "If you are looking to lose weight, then I would recommend exercising at least 45 minutes, five times a week. This is a great base level to be at, and it will hopefully cut your calorie deficit."

FOUR. HYDRATE!

Sarah says: "Water is the single most essential component of the human body, and is important for weight loss. It’s not uncommon for your body to misidentify hunger for thirst. A lot of the time you will feel hungry because you need to hydrate."