Clacton: Betty’s top tip to lose weight - grab a crabstick

10:10pm Tuesday 13th May 2008

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A woman who lost four stone attributes her weight loss success to an unconventional diet food - crab sticks.

Betty Saxton, of Marine Parade East, Clacton, sought refuge in food after she had to become a full-time carer for her sick husband.

Ian, now 56, became ill in 2002 after having two heart attacks.

The former RAF flight sergeant also has sleep apnoea, bipolar disorder and diabetes.

As a way of coping, Betty turned to food - and put on a very unwanted four stone.

"I spent four years just pigging out," said the 49-year-old.

She eventually decided to take the bull by the horns and joined the Slimming World group at St Paul's Church in Clacton.

With the support of consultant Sarah Williams, she lost four stone over 18 months.

And it was eating crab sticks which also helped her.

She said: "Because Ian is a diabetic, he has to eat late at night, and it was difficult not to eat with him.

"Crab sticks are just really easy to grab as a snack, so it meant I wasn't eating chocolate and crisps like before."