'I'm a doctor - the best way to burn fat and lose weight doesn't involve changing your diet'
A doctor discusses the benefits of exercise
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Weight loss comes from a combination of exercise, diet and other lifestyle factors.
While slimmers often reach for a diet plan to get results, a doctor said exercise should not be underestimated. They shared the benefits of this exclusively with GB News, particularly for women experiencing perimenopause.
In fact, doing this could be the most beneficial change women can make during their weight loss journey, according to Dr Ghazala Aziz-Scott from The Marion Gluck Clinic.
She told GB News: "Increased and consistent daily exercise is one of the best ways to lose weight."
Swimming burns calories while being easy on the joints
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This can be particularly useful for women around perimenopause. Many women will gain weight during this time despite not changing anything in their lifestyles.
If trying to reduce fat, the doctor recommended social and gentle activities such as workout classes as these are easy to stick to.
She said: "There are many classes and solo routines you can partake in. Zumba is a good way to socialise and keep fit and is popular amongst women over 40.
"Swimming is also great for your heart as it decreases the vascular stiffness that arrives as we lose oestrogen in menopause, and for strengthening muscles."
There are many benefits of swimming as it helps to build muscle and burn calories while being easy on the joints. On average, dieters can burn around 200 calories by swimming for 30 minutes.
Adding more exercise into your daily routine is great for fat loss as it will help you enter into a calorie deficit.
Of course, what you eat is important and if you often fill up on processed foods and unhealthy meals, it would be wise to reconsider your diet.
A dietician shared three food groups to focus on to fight unwanted weight gain during perimenopause.
They suggested eating whole foods, particularly those high in protein, healthy fats and fibre.
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Fill up on foods high in protein, fibre and fat
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These foods will help to keep cravings at bay. High-protein foods include meat, fish, nuts and beans. Fish, nuts and avocados are also good options for a hit of healthy fats.
The expert said: "Weight loss can become cumbersome during menopause because of hormonal changes, notably reduced estrogen, which can make one's metabolic rate very slow and result in more body fat, particularly in the midsection.
"I recommend a diet full of lean proteins, good fats and fibre-rich foods that provide satiation and satisfaction but still give fuel."
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