**Denise Welch Unveils Impressive 2.5 Stone Weight Loss Journey**
Television personality and actress Denise Welch has shared an inspiring update on her personal health transformation, revealing she has shed two-and-a-half stone after adopting a new approach that tackles both physical and mental well-being. The 67-year-old star, best known for her candid presence on ITV’s *Loose Women* and memorable roles on major British soaps, opened up about the challenges leading to this significant change.
Welch’s journey to a healthier lifestyle comes after a tumultuous period last year, which saw her temporarily step away from public life due to a resurgence of depression and anxiety—an ongoing challenge she has publicly discussed over the years. The multi-talented performer had to withdraw from an acting role and take a break from her busy schedule in order to focus on her recovery.
Having famously embraced sobriety 13 years ago, Welch candidly admits she felt herself veering into a new unhealthy pattern: binge eating. “I realised I was at risk of swapping one addiction for another,” she noted. The star’s openness about the emotional aspects underpinning her struggles resonates with many who face similar battles in the pursuit of well-being.
Denise first captured public attention as Natalie Barnes in *Coronation Street* between 1997 and 2000, and further endeared herself to audiences as Steph Haydock in *Waterloo Road*. With credits from *Hollyoaks*, *EastEnders*, *Byker Grove*, and beyond, her acting resume is extensive. Since joining *Loose Women* in 2000, Denise has become a familiar and much-loved figure on daytime television, often using her platform to speak honestly about mental health.
In a recent conversation with OK! Magazine, Welch explained that her weight loss came through enlisting the support of the UK-based LighterLife programme. She highlighted that the system’s unique focus on the psychological side of eating—utilising Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)—was key in her success. “LighterLife was the only company talking about the emotional side of eating and applying CBT to fundamentally change my relationship with food,” she said.
She further elaborated on the connection between her recovery journey and the skills offered by LighterLife’s approach. “Because I was relatively new to sobriety when I started, many CBT principles I learned helped support me in both areas—health and sobriety,” Welch reflected. Her story underscores the importance of addressing underlying behaviours as much as the physical aspect of weight management.
LighterLife’s method combines calorie-controlled meal replacement plans with psychological group work and CBT. Aimed at those wanting to lose weight, particularly individuals diagnosed as overweight or obese, the programme seeks to offer comprehensive behavioural change—not just rapid results. By focusing on emotional triggers and unhealthy coping mechanisms, LighterLife differentiates itself from more traditional weight loss services.
Throughout her journey, Welch’s openness has sparked a vital conversation around the links between mental health, addiction, and eating behaviours. Her willingness to discuss the difficulties she has faced—both with alcohol and with developing a balanced relationship with food—highlights the need to break down the stigma often associated with these issues.
As Welch continues to enthuse viewers with her regular appearances and honest commentary, her transformation reminds us of the complexity of personal health journeys. Rather than focusing solely on the scales, her story is ultimately about self-awareness, resilience, and the power of addressing both the body and the mind in pursuit of a healthier, more content life.