Tom Kerridge credits one food type with jaw-dropping 12 stone weight loss

Tom Kerridge has opened up about his go-to foods and lifestyle changes that helped him lose weight, all while still enjoying a tasty hearty meal.

The 51-year-old chef is said to have lost a staggering 12 stone over the years, by incorporating healthier foods in his diet and exercising more.

Sharing his tips on how to shed the pounds, The Great British Menu star says while there's not a go-to food that fits all, there are some rules weight loss hopefuls could follow to see results.

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"It all depends on which kind of diet you're choosing to go on," he shared to Reach PLC. "So whether it's low calorie or low carb or which ever way you're doing it."

But the most important guideline to follow when picking food is, he says, "proper food". By that, he meant "not ultra-processed, the highest quality that you can afford".

"Eat vegetables and eat protein, and cook them nicely, that's the best way, just a balanced and complete diet using proper produce."

As part of his own journey, Tom threw himself into an exercise routine and opted for more lower carbohydrates as part of a dopamine diet.

"So that was all lower carb and using higher proteins and good quality fruit and vegetables," he explained. "That then helps release dopamine levels, that make you feel happy about what you're eating."

Nevertheless, Tom says he doesn't restrict himself from enjoying a tasty comfort meal with his family, like a roast dinner.

"I'll try and cook stuff on a Sunday," he shared. "I always try and do a roast or a braised beef dish or something like that, something that's very family-based and tastes super nice and makes the house smell lovely."

Should he not have the energy to cook after a long day, the chef turns to "a bit of cheese and grapes late at night" to serve his cravings.

"The last thing you want to do when you get through the door is cook, so yeah cheese and grapes is a real go-to."

As part of Neff's Hidden Heroes campaign, Tom went on to admit that like many of us, he has stolen a cooking trick or two from others.

The premium kitchen appliance brand reveals some surprising truths about Britain's love of hosting and the kitchen blunders we all face; from testing food from a spoon and putting it back, and one in six cooks serving food dropped on the floor.

Tom shared: "I think it’s brilliant to see so many of us share the same kitchen quirks and mishaps – whether it’s dropping food on the floor or ‘borrowing’ a family recipe. Cooking should be fun, and it’s those little imperfections that make it special.

"I’ve definitely had my fair share of disasters, and yes, I’ve been known to take credit for my mum’s beef Bolognese.

"It’s all about creating great food and memories with the people you love, no matter how you get there."