How Long Does It Take to Lose One Stone?
One stone is equal to 14 pounds (6.35 kg).
For most adults who are overweight or living with obesity, the NHS recommends aiming for a gradual weight loss of approximately 0.5–1 kg (0.079- 0.16 Stone) (1–2 lb) per week. This is generally considered a safe and sustainable rate of weight loss. [1,2]
Using this recommended rate:
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Losing 0.079 stone per week → approximately 12–13 weeks to lose one stone.
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Losing 0.16 Stone per week → approximately 6–7 weeks to lose one stone.
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Therefore, a reasonable estimate is that losing one stone may take approximately 6–13 weeks.
Why doesn't everyone lose one stone at the same speed?
Weight loss does not usually occur at a perfectly consistent rate.
The speed at which someone loses weight can be affected by several factors, including:
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starting body weight
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calorie intake
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physical activity
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age
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sex
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muscle mass
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metabolic rate
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medications
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medical conditions
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adherence to dietary changes
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changes in energy requirements as body weight decreases
Body weight can also fluctuate from day to day because of changes in body water, food intake and other factors, so changes on the scales do not always represent changes in body fat.
Can you lose one stone faster?
It may be possible for some people to lose weight faster, particularly during the early stages of a weight-loss programme. However, faster weight loss on the scales does not necessarily mean that the same amount of body fat has been lost.
The NHS advises people to aim for gradual weight loss of around 0.5–1 kg per week, rather than relying on rapid or highly restrictive diets. [1]
NICE similarly states that 0.5–1 kg per week is generally considered safe and sustainable, although weight-loss goals should be individualised according to the person's health and circumstances. [2]
The Bottom Line
For most adults:
1 stone = 14 lb = 6.35 kg
At a weight-loss rate of:
0.5 kg(0.079 stone)/week → around 13 weeks
1 kg (0.16 Stone)/week → around 6–7 weeks
Therefore:
A realistic general estimate for losing one stone is approximately 6–13 weeks.
However, this should be viewed as a guide rather than a deadline. Sustainable weight loss is more important than achieving a specific number on the scales within a particular number of weeks.
Disclaimer
This content was prepared with the assistance of AI and has been reviewed, edited and approved by Hassan Bhatti (Pharmacist Independent Prescriber), before publication. It is intended for general information only and does not replace individual medical advice
Reviewed on : 07.09.2026
