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Frequently asked questions

We’re all different shapes and sizes and with so many new diets on the market, it’s not surprising that most of us are a bit confused about which ones could help us to keep up a healthy lifestyle.

This section answers some of the most frequently asked questions about Kellogg’s Special K Slimmer for Summer Challenge.

What is the Slimmer for Summer challenge?

Kellogg’s Slimmer for Summer Challenge is a simple and scientifically proven way to help kick-start a healthy lifestyle and get into shape.

For 2 weeks, eat a bowl (up to 45g) of any Kellogg’s Special K cereal with 125ml of semi-skimmed milk for breakfast then another for lunch OR dinner.

To help you stay on track you should follow healthy eating and lifestyle principles. If you’d like to find out more, visit Life after the Challenge

How do I know if it’s right for me?

Anyone who is over 18, overweight and has a Body Mass Index (BMI) of over 25 can take part. Find out your BMI in our Tools section.

What kind of cereal should I eat?

The great thing about Kellogg’s Special K Slimmer for Summer Challenge is that you can eat any of the delicious cereals in the Kellogg’s Special K range. These include Special K, Red Berries, Peach & Apricot, Purple Berries, Medley, Bliss Creamy Berry Crunch, Bliss Strawberry and Chocolate or Oats and Honey.

What else can I eat?

If you need to snack in between meals stick to fruit and vegetables or try a Special K bar. Have plenty of non-alcoholic drinks throughout the day including water and diluted fruit juices and be sure that your third meal is nutritionally balanced.

What is a nutritionally balanced meal?

A balanced meal should be made up of five major food groups in proportion with each other. So, that should take into account the following:

  • Low in fat
  • High in fibre
  • Plenty of fruit and veg
  • Protein like meat or fish and alternatives such as tofu
  • Carbohydrate

Take a look at some healthy meal ideas here.

Can I do this longer than 2 weeks?

Sounds tempting, but no! The challenge is designed as a kick-start only and shouldn’t be carried on after the 2 weeks are up. For ideas on how to keep up the good work, see Life after the Slimmer for Summer Challenge.

Do I have to eat Kellogg’s cereals?

The Slimmer for Summer Challenge has been scientifically proven using Kellogg’s cereals. It's highly recommended you eat them for the challenge. All the Kellogg’s Special K range (with the exception of Special K Medley) contains a source of 6 essential B-vitamins, vitamin C, iron and protein to help you to maintain a healthy balanced diet whilst watching your shape.

Is taking this challenge good for me?

If you're overweight, with a BMI of more than 25, then yes! The challenge could be a great way to kick-start a healthier eating plan. Eating two bowls of Kellogg’s cereal a day means you're making a real effort to reduce the fat and saturated fat content of your diet, while boosting your carbohydrate intake. And don’t forget, regular exercise is really important as part of a healthy lifestyle. Remember that the challenge is only for 2 weeks to help kick-start you into a healthier regime.

Is Slimmer for Summer safe for me?

When taking part in any new regime it can be important to consult your doctor. The Kellogg’s Slimmer for Summer Challenge is safe for most people who are overweight (with a Body Mass Index of more than 25). To find out your BMI, use the Kellogg’s BMI Calculator. It’s important to remember that the Kellogg’s Slimmer for Summer Challenge is only intended as a starting point to a healthier lifestyle regime and not for long term use. If you have any doubts, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor.

Can my overweight children take part?

Under no circumstances should anyone under the age of 18 participate in the challenge. Children and adolescents have specific dietary needs and require adequate energy and nutrients, so we do not recommend that they participate in Kellogg’s Special K Slimmer for Summer challenge. If you have concerns regarding your child’s weight, you should consult your GP.

Don’t I need more variety in a healthy weight reduction diet?

The Kellogg’s Special K Slimmer for Summer Challenge isn’t for long-term use and is specifically designed for a 2 week period only. The third meal should be nutritionally balanced and fruit and vegetables can also be consumed as snacks/juices. We gave all our volunteers diet sheets and advice on how to continue to eat healthily once the 2 weeks were over.

If you’d like to find out more about how you can maintain a healthy lifestyle, visit Life after the Slimmer for Summer Challenge or explore the Health section of the Kellogg’s website.

If I take the Kellogg’s Special K Slimmer for Summer Challenge, will I get all the right nutrients?

By eating Kellogg’s fortified cereals and a balanced third meal, you can help ensure you’re getting a healthy balance of nutrients including carbohydrates, protein, fat, fibre, vitamins and minerals.

Will any weight I’ve lost come back as soon as I stop the Kellogg’s Special K Slimmer for Summer Challenge?

The Kellogg’s Special K Slimmer for Summer Challenge is about trying to achieve a healthier shape. After the challenge, make sure that you stick to a healthy balanced diet with regular activity in your day; brisk walking, cycling and swimming are great. The government recommends that adults should aim for at least half an hour of exercise a day which can not only help you to be physically fitter but also help you to stay in shape. To find out more about getting active, read the Exercise tips in our Tips and Advice section. And to find out more about how you can maintain a healthy lifestyle, visit Life after the Slimmer for Summer Challenge.