Doctor tells Brit dad to 'carry on' as he loses two stone in two months with one change

Scottish dad, Marcel Botes, has shed an impressive 12.5kg (one stone and 13 pounds) in just two months, all thanks to a cutting-edge AI coaching app, and he couldn't be happier with the result.

Concerns about his health, specifically his high blood pressure and cholesterol, spurred Marcel into action. Partial to the odd nibble here and there, he was struggling to get his munching under control - until came along.

He said: "Initially my biggest challenge was avoiding snacks, especially after dinner, but the app helped me make informed food choices." Delighted, he continued: "So far I've lost 12.5kg. I reached my original goal weight of 87.6kg in two months. I set a new target of 83.5kg, which I achieved a month later. Even after reaching my goal, I still log my meals and activities multiple times a day."

His diligence has paid off. Following a medical check-up, Marcel got the thumbs up from his GP, who reported his BMI, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels are all spot on and encouraged him to carry on.

is a user-friendly app that creates bespoke slimming programs based on lifestyle, activity levels, health goals and timeline. Users embark upon their weight loss journey by filling out an in-depth questionnaire about their goals, hang-ups, likings, and previous attempts at weight loss, reports .

By using an intermittent fasting tracker, the Simple method doesn’t include calorie counting, cutting out essential food groups, or weighing every bite. Based on individual input, the app helps users choose a fasting schedule that suits them best- whether it's a balanced 12:12 split, a moderate 14:10 or the 16:8 routine.

The 16:8 routine is the most popular intermittent fasting method where users eat during an 8-hour window - such as 10 am to 6 pm - and fast for the remaining 16 hours. During the fasting period, food must be avoided but calorie-free beverages can still be enjoyed.

To help users stay on top of their nutrition, the app has various methods for logging food including typing, voice commands, or photographs with the nutriscanner. It also offers personalised exercise routines, from strength training and cardio to wall pilates.

Now, those eager to start shedding pounds can emulate Marcel's success and snatch a fantastic 60% discount on personalised weight loss programmes via the by using the code REACH60.

What makes the Simple App so effective is the addition of Avo, the built-in coach powered by artificial intelligence. Avo acts as a personal wellness companion, always on hand to instantly respond to users' questions, ensuring advice on wellbeing and fitness is just a tap away any time they need it.

"I love that I can take a photo of my meal and Avo can track the nutritional value for me," continued Marcel. "I frequently use Avo's recipes. Interacting with it feels more like someone who is invested in my health, rather than an AI."

For those seeking alternatives, there's a plethora of other health-focused on the market. The , for example, helps users to monitor their eating and exercise habits, encouraging healthier lifestyle choices.

is another popular choice that offers comprehensive food tracking, meal planning, calorie counting and exercise routines. Both apps are free with optional premium upgrades for those looking for extra support and tools.

Meanwhile, mum-of-two Laci Gilbert also had success with the Simple app. She dropped from 275lbs to 116lbs, utilising the workouts and meal planning via Avo.

She said: "As working moms, wives, mothers, just family members, life takes over and sometimes we don’t have time in the evenings to get ourselves to the gym or sometimes we just don’t feel like moving. The Simple App gives you a no-excuse reason to get up and move, especially when you can do it at home with no equipment."

“It is great for a busy person who needs something to do at home or somebody who cannot afford a gym membership, equipment. All you need is yourself and a wall and you’ve got it,” adds Laci, who frequently does at-home wall pilates workouts.

The Simple app boasts an impressive 4.3 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, based on 29,591 reviews. A satisfied user commented: "It is an encouraging way to lose weight."

Another user added: "This app is amazing. It's so easy to use and I love all of the interactions.

"It's easy to follow," a different shopper explained. "I'm actually losing weight I've been stuck with forever."

Despite the praise, some users did voice concerns about the application, as one remarked: "I am finding the program a little difficult to use."

The Manchester Evening News also put the app through its paces in a . They observed: "Simple's range of features are very reminiscent to what you'd get with a personal trainer: someone to hold you accountable, provide you with meal plans and recipes, and to give advice and encouragement."

Highlighting a potential drawback, they added: "There are limitations to it, with the app being a robot, which makes the programme more suited to those who are just getting started or don't know where to start. If you need more advanced help or your weight loss is stalling, that's a good time to pick up the phone to a PT."

Still, the app earned positive comments for certain aspects, as the review mentioned: "However, its food logging and recipe functions makes it worth the price of admission alone. Even though I'm keeping my PT, Simple will help spice things up for me going forward. I highly recommend this app."

The app is currently 60% off with code REACH60. This is not medical advice. This is a personal experience. Results may vary. Please consult your healthcare professional for any medical conditions.