Exciting changes announced for Mayo Slimming World members

Slimming World groups across Mayo have announced significant changes to the organisation’s healthy eating plan, launching from January 2026. The updates include saying goodbye to the term ‘Syns’ and introducing a new healthy fats category, making it even easier for members to enjoy a balanced, sustainable approach to weight management.

Sheila McLoughlin, who runs her Slimming World groups in Claremorris, Swinford and Ballyhaunis explains:

“From this January, we’ll be saying goodbye to the term ‘Syns’ following a review of Slimming World’s language and terminology. At the same time, a new healthy fats category is being introduced, meaning foods such as avocado, olive oil and nut butters will be even easier for members to include in their weekly plan, with a greater focus on their health benefits.”

She adds:

“Slimming World’s approach hasn’t changed since Margaret Miles-Bramwell OBE founded the company in 1969. Our ethos has always been to inspire and motivate people to make positive mindset changes and develop lasting healthy habits around food and activity – all within a culture of care, respect and understanding. That ethos is just as powerful today.”

Tracy King who recently opened her group in Tubbercurry and relaunched the Ballina group, says the update is particularly timely:

“With the rising popularity of weight loss medications, effective, evidence-based support like Slimming World’s is more important than ever. We want everyone to know they’ll be welcome and supported in our groups, whether they’re using medication or not. Language matters, and we know the term ‘Syns’ could sometimes be misunderstood or act as a barrier for people who want support to reach a healthy weight.”

Linda Gorham, who runs her Slimming World groups in Belmullet and Castlebar, explains how the plan works:

“Slimming World’s healthy eating plan has helped millions of people to lose weight over the past 56 years. It’s a flexible plan centred around ‘Free Foods’ – foods that are lower in energy density, meaning fewer calories per gram, but highly satisfying.”

“There are more than 350 basic Free Foods which can be eaten freely, without weighing or measuring. These include lean meats, poultry, fish, plant-based proteins, eggs, beans, fruit and vegetables, grains, potatoes and pasta.”

From January 2026, foods that are higher in energy density and less satiating – such as alcohol, crisps, chocolate and everyday essentials like butter, sauces or gravy – will be referred to as Swips. These foods play an important role in the plan, as enjoying favourite foods without guilt makes healthy changes easier to maintain long term.

Tracy adds “Our goal has always been to remove guilt around food and weight. We’ve had feedback that the word ‘Syn’ could suggest shame around eating higher-calorie foods, which was never our intention. We recognise the power of language, and this change reflects our commitment to supporting members in a positive, compassionate way.”

“No food has ever been banned at Slimming World, and members have always been able to enjoy healthy fats. By introducing a new healthy fats Healthy Extra choice, we hope to improve understanding of balanced nutrition and help members maintain their healthy habits long after they reach their target weight.”

From the new year, Healthy Extras will include three daily portions chosen from calcium-rich foods, fibre-rich foods and healthy fats. Members will be encouraged to choose a variety of Healthy Extras for overall health, with at least one calcium choice daily to support bone health. Healthy fats will include foods such as nuts, nut butters, seeds, avocado and oils.

People following the plan have always been able to enjoy healthy fats through Free Foods like oily fish, Healthy Extras such as nuts and seeds, and through their daily allowance of higher-calorie foods. This update simply places a greater spotlight on the health benefits of these fats.

The changes follow a review by Slimming World’s Nutrition, Research and Health Department, made up of dietitians, nutritionists and researchers. They reflect current eating trends and are designed to make the plan even easier to follow in everyday life.

To join your local Slimming World group, check the group details in the advertisement in next week's edition of the Connaught Telegraph.

New member packs featuring these updates will be available in groups from the end of December and into the new year.