5 super-effective ways to lose weight and burn fat that dieters often overlook

In January we often take stock and look at ways to make life better and, when it comes to resolutions, one of the most common is to lose weight.

Having a healthy weight can help us be fitter, more active and get more out of life.

But with so many myths surrounding weight, such as whether you're the right size for your gender and height and how to lose weight, it's hard to know where to turn for the best advice.

Luckily for our readers, below we've spoken to the highly-trained Pharmacists at Lloyds Pharmacy to reveal the five most important pieces of advice to help you lose weight and improve your health.

But if you'd like more information in a free, private one-on-one consultation, find your local Lloyds Pharmacy branch here and simply drop by - you don't even have to make an appointment.

They'll check your height, weight and BMI before using NHS guidelines to find your ideal weight range!

Tip 1: Take it slow!

Weight loss should be slow and steady - not a quick crash. Eating 500 - 600 fewer calories a day will help shed 1 - 2lbs a week.

Tip 2: Exercise little and often

Adults should do at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise every week. Over 65's or anyone with a medical condition should speak to their GP first.

Tip 3: Get active and burn calories

Men need an average 2500 daily calories and women 2000. Calories measure the amount of energy in food and drink - the more active you are, the more energy and calories are burned. Torch extra calories by walking more, such as taking the stairs instead of the lift or getting off the bus a stop early on the way home.

Tip 4: Drink sensibly

Changing how much alcohol you consume can help healthy weight loss - no more than 14 units per week for men and women.

Tip 5: Eat a healthier diet

This is key to weight loss. Eat more fruit and veg - at least 5-a-day or 7 if you have high blood pressure - and reduce saturated fat intake.

Weight Loss Bargain Buy of the Week

XLS Medical Max Strength - 40 tablets. Was £34.99, now £17.49 (save £17.50)

XLS-Medical Max Strength works by reducing calorie intake from the main nutrients - carbohydrates, sugar and fat. It contains Clavitanol, a patented natural complex which reduces the breakdown and absorption of these nutrients into calories.

This means that the intake of calories is reduced, which helps you to lose more weight than dieting and exercise alone.

To find out more about losing weight or getting healthier, shop online at Lloyds Pharmacy or find your nearest store here.