Q. Is it true that diet pills are amphetamines which are addictive and give you a 'high'?.

No! This is a misunderstanding that is often repeated in the media. Appetite suppressants such as phentermine have a different make-up to amphetamines, which means they do not have the addictive qualities nor do they give you a 'high'. What they do is take the edge off your appetite and give you the energy to live your normal everyday life without eating as much food as before. This is a great help while you change to a new eating plan that will enable you to lose weight and keep the weight off for good.  

Q. How successful are you?

More than 60% of our new patients come to Victoria Diet Clinic because they have been recommended by a friend, relative or work colleague. That suggests we are doing something right! If you are genuinely interested in losing weight, we provide everything you need to be successful. Our doctors' friendly encouragement, advice and support is backed up by eating plans based on the latest nutritional thinking and a range of medications to reduce your appetite or absorb fat from the food you eat.

The more often you come to see us, the more successful you will be. Over the course of a three to six month programme, we often see patients lose two to three stones in weight. This is achieved through steady, sustainable changes to your lifestyle, not through starvation or fad diets.

Q. How do you compare to other forms of weight loss?

We are unique in combining unlimited access to a private doctor with the latest nutritional thinking on Glycaemic Load eating plans. Our close relationship with the National Nutrition Clinic (www.nationalnutritionclinic.com ) means that we encourage our doctors to work closely with highly qualified nutritional therapists to provide the best in integrated medicine for our weight loss patients. For less than the cost of buying herbal meal replacements from an unqualified network marketing sales person, you have access to a network of experts and a range of medication proven over many years. Your treatment programme is personalised, and your sessions with the doctor are confidential.

Q. What if I don't like the medication I am given? 

The doctor will make the initial choice of which, if any, medication is appropriate for you based on your lifestyle, your weight loss objectives and the discussion during your initial consultation. All medication has some side effects. In the vast majority of cases, side effects from diet medication are limited and last for just 2 or 3 days. If, after this period, you are still not comfortable with your medication, the doctor can choose to switch you to a different medication. Alternatively, you can continue to receive advice and guidance on a consultation-only basis, or switch to natural appetite suppressants. Finally, the doctor may refer you to a Nutritional Therapist at the National Nutrition Clinic for a complementary health based weight loss programme.

So you see there are many options open to you - all you have to do is ask.      

For an information pack about Victoria Diet Clinic or to book an appointment, please call 020 7630 7303.