Keep It Off

Ever feel like your body is actively fighting your progress just when things were going so well? It’s not just in your head; it’s your internal "weightostat" trying to find its level. We’re diving deep into why those frustrating plateaus happen—whether they’re a natural reset or something engineered by habits—and how to tell the difference. Mel & Shaw Somers strip back the myths surrounding the sugar industry’s war on fat and explain why your cells actually scream for high-quality fats and protein to function. From the evolutionary history of why we eat starch to the modern struggle of resisting a tube of crisps, this is about understanding the biological machinery under the hood. Stop fighting against your biology and start working with it to ensure those results stay permanent. KEY TAKEAWAYS The body uses a "weightostat" to regulate metabolism and appetite based on sleep, stress, and nutrition. Carbohydrates are the only macronutrient not biologically essential for human survival or regeneration. Natural plateaus occur when the body reaches a healthy set point for its current intake and activity. Fats are vital for absorbing essential vitamins A, D, E, and K and maintaining nerve health. Combining sugar, fat, and salt creates a "hyper-palatable" trigger in the brain that makes it nearly impossible to stop eating. QUOTES "The plateau is your body getting to that stage and going, 'Right, I’m where I want to be.'" "There is no daily requirement for sugar. Your body will make glucose from proteins." "Low fat is, in my view, the biggest scam going." "To get people to do work, it’s much cheaper and easier to feed them bread." "If you want to keep it off, the journey requires regular readjustment." Dr Shaw Somers Information https://www.instagram.com/mrshawsomers/ https://www.shawsomers.com/ 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ http://www.kiomethod.com/fmo ⁠⁠⁠⁠📺⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠📸⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠🎵⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠📘⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠💼⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠⁠⁠

Standing in the shower and seeing clumps of hair swirling down the drain is enough to make anyone feel sick. It feels like a punishment for all the hard work put into a body transformation, but it's actually a documented physiological response called telogen effluvium. When weight drops rapidly, the body hits an emergency pause button, diverting resources like protein and iron away from "non-essential" hair to protect vital organs. This isn't a permanent sentence; it's a temporary season of resetting. KEY TAKEAWAYS Understand the Delay: Shedding often peaks 3 to 6 months after the initial stressor of rapid weight loss. Resource Prioritisation: The body views hair as non-essential and redirects nutrients to the heart, liver, and immune system during stress. Testing is Essential: Blood tests for ferritin, zinc, B12, and Vitamin D are vital because each deficiency requires a different response. Protein is Non-Negotiable: Hair is made of keratin; if daily protein targets (80-120g) aren't met, the body stops producing it. Consistency with Vitamins: Prescribed bariatric vitamins are clinically formulated for malabsorption and must not be replaced by generic supplements. QUOTES "The horror of seeing clumps of hair swirling around the shower drain like something out of a horror movie." "Your body does not class hair as essential for survival." "We don't catastrophize. We investigate, we understand, and then we respond." "Protein first. Every single meal. It is the most evidence-backed intervention." "Hair loss specifically. It's a season. It's not a sentence." 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ http://www.kiomethod.com/fmo ⁠⁠⁠⁠📺⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠📸⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠🎵⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠📘⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠💼⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠⁠⁠

Ever wondered how big your stomach actually is or where it’s truly located? It turns out most of us have it all wrong. In this deep dive, renowned surgeon Mr Shaw Somers breaks down the mechanics of our "muscular bag," explaining how it expands from the size of a fist to a yellow melon to accommodate a meal. Mel & Shaw explore the radical anatomical changes of the bypass and sleeve, the truth about stomach stretching, and why that old rule about not drinking water with meals might finally be a thing of the past. KEY TAKEAWAYS Anatomy vs. Myth: The stomach is located much higher than most people think, sitting just under the ribs, and is roughly the size of a hand when empty. Metabolic Shifts: Bariatric surgeries like the sleeve and bypass are "metabolic operations" that reset your internal "orchestra of hormones," reducing hunger signals like ghrelin. Stretch Limits: While the stomach is highly elastic, pain signals usually prevent physical rupturing; however, chronic overeating can lead to a "comfort" association with a fully distended stomach. Hydration Rules: The traditional advice to avoid drinking water while eating after weight loss surgery was largely based on older surgical techniques; a few sips to enjoy a meal is now generally considered fine. Long-term Costs: Choosing between GLP-1 medications and surgery involves weighing the lifetime cost and side effects of drugs against a one-time surgical investment of roughly £10,000–£12,000. QUOTES "Your stomach is a very floppy bag... roughly the size of your hand." "The bypass is probably the most active of all operations that we can do in terms of switching over your metabolism." "Vomiting should not be part of your experience at any stage. If you are being sick, there is something wrong." "Your bile is a bit like Fairy Liquid... it emulsifies fat immediately." "Part of the process of long-term weight loss is eating a diet that works with your body and that you enjoy." Dr Shaw Somers Information https://www.instagram.com/mrshawsomers/ https://www.shawsomers.com/ 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ http://www.kiomethod.com/fmo ⁠⁠⁠⁠📺⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠📸⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠🎵⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠📘⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠💼⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠⁠⁠

Waking up exhausted, noticing clumps of hair in the shower, or seeing a face that looks years older than it should isn't just "part of the process"—it’s a warning sign that your body is starving for its most basic building block. When you’ve had metabolic surgery or are using GLP-1s, hitting your protein target isn't a suggestion; it is a matter of survival to protect your muscle mass, your bones, and your hard-earned metabolism. This deep dive breaks down why the scales moving down might actually be a red flag if you aren't hitting 80g to 120g of protein daily. Learn how to calculate needs based on ideal body weight, how to navigate taste aversions, and the practical "protein first" strategies to fit essential nutrition into a tiny pouch without the constant struggle. KEY TAKEAWAYS Muscle is Metabolism: Losing muscle tissue drops your metabolic rate, which is the strongest predictor of significant weight regain. Calculate by Goal, Not Current Weight: Protein needs should be 1 to 1.5g per kilo of your ideal body weight to prevent under-calculating as you slim down. The "Protein First" Mandate: To manage limited pouch space, protein must be consumed before any vegetables, grains, or liquids. Deficiency is Insidious: By the time hair loss or fluid retention becomes obvious, a significant deficiency already exists. Frequency over Volume: Reaching high protein targets requires 5–6 small eating occasions rather than trying to fit large portions into three meals. QUOTES "This isn't optional. This is survival." "Muscle tissue is metabolically active. That means it burns calories even at rest." "You fill your limited pouch space with the highest priority nutrient." "Your protein needs don't drop just because you weigh less." "Average matters more than individual days." 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ http://www.kiomethod.com/fmo ⁠⁠⁠⁠📺⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠📸⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠🎵⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠📘⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠💼⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠⁠⁠

Why can one person demolish a pack of biscuits without gaining a pound, while another just looks at one and feels it? The answer isn’t willpower—it’s biology. In this episode, Mel Harris & Shaw Somers unpack the hidden “universe” of metabolism, revealing how your brain, muscles, and even your evolutionary past shape the way you burn energy. Challenge the tired “calories in, calories out” myth and explore why strict dieting can backfire—triggering survival mechanisms that stall fat loss. KEY TAKEAWAYS The Standby Principle: Your basal metabolic rate is the energy required just to keep your "machine" ticking over while you sleep, similar to a TV on standby. Efficiency is the Enemy: People prone to obesity often have highly efficient digestive systems that absorb nearly every calorie, whereas others have "inefficient" systems that burn through energy naturally. The Starvation Trap: Going on a strict, low-calorie diet signals a "famine" to your brain, causing your metabolism to switch off to protect your fat stores and keep you alive. Absorption Varies by Person: Even identical twins absorb different amounts of energy from the same food due to factors like the microbiome and life experience. Organ Fuel: Your brain alone consumes a quarter of your body’s energy; if you don't eat enough, your organs cannot function effectively to do their jobs. QUOTES "The reason they're not losing weight is because they're not eating enough." "Your brain takes up about a quarter of your body's energy because it's very energy hungry." "I can eat the same biscuit as somebody else. But I can absorb more calories from that biscuit than the person next to me." "If you start with yourself, go on a strict diet, your metabolism naturally will switch out to stop you losing too much weight." "We are the ones who were slightly chubby... it's a survival advantage if a famine is coming." Dr Shaw Somers Information https://www.instagram.com/mrshawsomers/ https://www.shawsomers.com/ 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ http://www.kiomethod.com/fmo ⁠⁠⁠📺⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠📸⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠🎵⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠📘⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠💼⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠⁠

You’ve spent years fighting for this new life, so why risk it all for a bit of carbonation? It’s the one rule everyone loves to hate, but there’s a massive difference between "restriction" and "protection." Breaking down exactly what happens to a tiny, egg-sized stomach when you introduce CO{2}, we’re looking at why that painful bloating is actually a warning sign for your long-term success. Stretching your pouch isn't an overnight disaster; it’s a slow creep that leads straight back to the scales. Discover the clinical reality of pouch stretching, the danger of the "one sip" trap, and how to find a new afternoon ritual that actually serves your body instead of just filling it with gas. KEY TAKEAWAYS The Balloon Effect: Your pouch is the size of an egg; adding gas is like blowing up a balloon inside a small box, causing immediate physical stress. Cumulative Damage: Pouch stretching doesn't happen from one drink, but repeated pressure over months leads to increased capacity and weight regain. The One-Sip Trap: Tolerance for a single sip doesn't equal safety; it's the gateway to old habits and gradual pouch expansion. Nutritional Real Estate: With only 150ml of space per meal, wasting room on zero-value fizz displaces the protein and vitamins your body needs to thrive. Ritual Replacement: Most cravings for fizz are actually cravings for a "pick-me-up" or social lubricant; success lies in finding new, non-gaseous rituals. QUOTES "Imagine you're trying to blow up a balloon inside a small box. The balloon wants to expand, but the box limits it, and pressure builds." "A stretched pouch means increased capacity, and increased capacity means you can eat more, and eating more means weight regain." "Immediate tolerance doesn’t mean long-term safety." "Your pouch is precious real estate. Why would you waste that space on something with zero nutritional value?" "Every time you choose the alternative, you're choosing your future self." 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ http://www.kiomethod.com/fmo ⁠⁠⁠📺⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠📸⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠🎵⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠📘⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠💼⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠⁠

Stop scrolling—your health isn’t a commodity to be outsourced to a package deal or an online bargain. We are pulling back the curtain on the "sunny" reality of medical tourism and the terrifying rise of counterfeit weight loss pens. From surgeons making non-existent cuts to pens filled with pure insulin instead of medication, the risks are not just "minimal"—they are often catastrophic, life-altering, and sometimes fatal. This episode is a raw, no-nonsense look at why cheap upfront costs often lead to a lifetime of revision surgeries, sepsis, or worse. If you are considering an elective procedure abroad or buying medication without a verified, registered prescriber, you need to hear this. KEY TAKEAWAYS Counterfeit weight loss pens often contain pure insulin, which can trigger a catastrophic blood sugar crash, hypoglycemic shock, and coma. Medical tourism carries severe, documented risks, including sepsis, wound breakdown, and internal leaks that the NHS is currently forced to manage. Flying home shortly after major surgery significantly increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism. Official guidelines recommend waiting weeks, not days, before flying after surgery to ensure safety and proper recovery. If you have had surgery abroad and feel unwell, seek care immediately; the NHS will treat you, and there is no reason to delay seeking life-saving support. QUOTES "Cheap upfront can be a catastrophic later, sometimes fatal. Sometimes a life sentence of complications." "Safety isn't something you can outsource to a package price, a hashtag or a knockoff pen." "For every sunny reel there is an ICU bed that doesn't get posted about." "If you can't verify the supply chain, it's simple. Don't inject it." "Do not gamble your life to save a couple of grand." 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠ http://www.kiomethod.com/fmo ⁠⁠📺⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod⁠⁠ ⁠⁠📸⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod⁠⁠ ⁠⁠🎵⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod⁠⁠ ⁠⁠📘⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod⁠⁠ ⁠⁠💼⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠

Ever feel like your body is a puzzle you just can't crack? If you’ve had weight loss surgery or are using GLP-1s, you’ve likely been told to drink more water, but nobody tells you how to actually do it when your stomach is the size of a golf ball. Forget the wellness buzzwords; this is about the physiological reality of keeping your system running smoothly. From why your brain confuses thirst for hunger to the sneaky ways dehydration stalls your fat loss and wreaks havoc on your metabolism, we’re cutting through the noise. It’s time to stop sabotaging your hard work and start fuelling your body properly—one sip at a time. KEY TAKEAWAYS Dehydration slows your metabolic rate by 2–3%, potentially stalling your progress. The brain often confuses thirst signals for hunger, leading to unnecessary snacking. Weight loss surgery and GLP-1s can blunt thirst signals, making scheduled drinking essential. Chronic dehydration can accelerate muscle breakdown, sabotaging your protein efforts. QUOTES "Water isn't just about staying hydrated in some vague wellness buzzword way. It's about giving your body the basic environment it needs to function properly." "When we're dehydrated, the region of the brain that regulates our hunger and thirst can confuse the thirst signals for hunger signals." "You can be doing all the hard work of burning fat, but your body can't process and remove the by products efficiently because there isn't enough water in the system." "Drinking water isn't about topping up a tank that's already full. It's about replacing what we're losing so that our system can keep running smoothly." "If you are struggling to drink enough water, you're not alone. You are actually facing a genuinely difficult logistical and physiological challenge." 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠kiomethod.com/fmo⁠⁠ 📺⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod⁠⁠ ⁠⁠📸⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod⁠⁠ ⁠⁠🎵⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod⁠⁠ ⁠⁠📘⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod⁠⁠ ⁠⁠💼⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠⁠ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Lost the weight but terrified of gaining it back? Mindset coach Paul Becque explains why weight loss surgery or GLP-1 injections are only half the battle. Discover the "Catch Yourself Thinking" (CYT) method to stop self-sabotage and learn why your "old identity" might be pulling you back toward old habits. We discuss the E+R=O formula for emotional regulation and how to navigate "toxic" reactions from friends and family who don't recognise the new you. 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠⁠https://www.kiomethod.com📺⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod📸⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod🎵⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod📘⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod💼⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod⁠⁠ 🔗 Follow & Connect with Paul Becque 🌐 Paul Becque: https://paulbecque.com/presenter/ 🌐 LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/pbecque/ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠⁠

Ever wondered why half a glass of wine now feels like three, or why you suddenly feel "floored" before you’ve even finished a drink? It’s not just in your head—your surgically altered body now processes alcohol in a fundamentally different way. We’re diving into the unfiltered truth about the complicated relationship between weight loss surgery and alcohol. We break down the science of "first-pass metabolism," explaining why alcohol hits your bloodstream faster and peaks higher than ever before. Beyond the physical, we tackle the "elephant in the room": addiction transfer. With food no longer serving as a coping mechanism, many find themselves sliding into problematic drinking without even realising it. Whether you’re navigating the risk of dumping syndrome or trying to understand your new brain chemistry, this is about protection through knowledge. You’ve done something extraordinary by transforming your body; now it’s time to learn the new rules for protecting your health and your future. KEY TAKEAWAYS The Loss of First-Pass Metabolism: Surgery removes the stomach enzymes that normally break down alcohol, meaning more of it hits your bloodstream instantly. Faster, Stronger Peaks: Post-surgery, you can reach peak blood alcohol levels in just 30 minutes—twice as fast as before. The Risk of Addiction Transfer: When surgery removes food as a coping mechanism, the brain may seek a "dopamine fix" through alcohol, increasing the risk of dependency. Nutritional Displacement: Alcohol provides empty calories and takes up vital pouch space needed for protein and essential nutrients. Militant Hydration is Non-Negotiable: Because alcohol dehydrates an already vulnerable system, a strict 1-for-1 water-to-alcohol ratio is essential to avoid serious kidney issues. QUOTES "Half a glass and you're floored. Dizzy, nauseous or worse."  "We don't know that we've got an addictive personality until it's too late."  "You can trigger dumping syndrome and get drunk simultaneously, which... is a genuinely unpleasant and potentially dangerous experience."  "Drinking because you're stressed, sad, anxious, lonely or bored. That is you on the downward slope to addiction."  "The bottom line for many bariatric patients, complete abstinence is the safest long term strategy." 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.kiomethod.com⁠ ⁠📺⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod⁠ ⁠📸⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod⁠ ⁠🎵⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod⁠ ⁠📘⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod⁠ ⁠💼⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod⁠⁠⁠ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Let’s be honest: how many times have you stood on the scales, promised yourself "this time it'll stick," only to feel like a failure a few weeks later? It’s time to stop the self-flagellation. This isn't about a lack of willpower or being "weak"—it’s about a multi-billion pound industry that relies on you coming back, and a biological system that thinks it’s saving your life every time you cut calories. We’re diving deep into the "ancient wiring" of the human body and why your brain goes into overdrive to protect your fat stores. It’s time to trade in the restrictive rules for actual skills and understand the difference between losing weight and the lifelong challenge of keeping it off. You aren't broken; you’ve just been using the wrong tools. KEY TAKEAWAYS The Business of Failure: The diet industry thrives on repeat customers, meaning its commercial success depends on the same people returning after regaining weight. Biological Protection: Your body views weight loss as a threat to survival and triggers hormones to increase hunger while slowing your metabolism to conserve energy. The All-or-Nothing Trap: Rigid dieting rules create a psychological "slip" where one mistake leads to total abandonment and feelings of shame. Emotional Eating Ignored: Most diets tell you what to eat but fail to address why we eat, ignoring the need for comfort, reward, or stress relief. Maintenance is a Different Skill: Losing weight is one chapter, but keeping it off requires lifelong psychological skills and awareness rather than temporary restriction. QUOTES "We do not fail diets. Diets fail people." "The real devil in this war of the pounds... is your very own biology." "Your body doesn't know you're trying to get into a smaller dress; it’s operating on ancient wiring." "Dieting sets up a battle between you and your own biology—and biology usually wins." "You are not broken. You weren't weak. You weren't failing. You were using tools that were never designed for lifelong support." 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠⁠https://www.kiomethod.com 📺⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod 📸⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod 🎵⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod 📘⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod 💼⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod⁠⁠ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Ever feel like you’re doing everything right, but your body just stops listening? It turns out your cells might be acting like a teenager blocking out their parents’ shouting. In this deep dive, Mel Harris and guest Shaw Somers pull back the curtain on why GLP-1 medications hit a plateau and how "stupid foods" are designed to break your internal off-switch. We’re stripping away the blame culture and looking at the hard physiology of hunger, the difference between satiety and satiation, and why your struggle with overeating is often a biological glitch rather than a lack of willpower. It’s time to stop the self-criticism and start understanding the receptors that actually run the show. 5 Key Takeaways Receptor Down-Regulation: Flooding the body with GLP-1 hormones can cause cells to "tune out" by reducing receptors, leading to medication tolerance. Satiety vs. Satiation: Satiety is the lasting feeling of fullness, while satiation is the process of becoming full during a meal. The "Stupid Food" Trap: Modern processed foods are engineered to bypass our natural biological stop signals. Biological Safeguards: Our bodies have multiple satiety signals—from stretch receptors in the stomach to taste receptors in the gut—all designed to prevent overconsumption. Environment vs. Willpower: Constant exposure to an "inappropriate environment" makes maintaining weight loss a physiological battle, not just a mental one. Quotes "The more of the drug that you throw at the cells, the more they’re just turning off to it." "Satiety is what you feel... I am satisfied, I have satiety." "Humans have just wrecked it, it’s broken... we’ve totally ruined that as humans by making food so delicious, so lovely, so addictive." "Most of the stuff that's available to buy in the shops now is stupid food." "It's not your fault guys, you're certainly not the only person that's going through it." 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠https://www.kiomethod.com📺⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod📸⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod🎵⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod📘⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod💼⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod⁠ 🔗 Follow & Connect with Dr Shaw Somers 🌐 Dr Shaw Somers: ⁠https://www.shawsomers.com/⁠ 🌐 Streamline Weightloss: ⁠https://www.streamlineweightlosssurgery.com/⁠ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠

Your heart is pounding, you’re drenched in a cold sweat, and the room is spinning—all because you had two biscuits with your tea. Welcome to Dumping Syndrome, one of the most misunderstood and distressing complications of weight loss surgery. It’s not just a deterrent to stop you eating sugar; it’s a complex physiological reaction where your body panics because food is moving too fast. We are stripping away the medical jargon to explain exactly what happens during early and late dumping. From the osmotic shifts that cause bloating to the insulin spikes that lead to reactive hypoglycaemia, this is the manual for your new digestive system. Learn why protein is your best defence, why you need to separate drinking from eating, and how to manage the symptoms without living in fear. It’s time to understand your anatomy, not just punish it. Key Takeaways It’s Not Just a Deterrent: Dumping syndrome isn't a behavioural punishment; it is a physiological response to rapid gastric emptying where high-sugar foods flood the small intestine. Two Distinct Types: Early dumping hits within 30 minutes due to fluid shifts, while late dumping (reactive hypoglycaemia) strikes hours later caused by an insulin overreaction. The Physiology of Panic: Symptoms like palpitations and dizziness occur because your blood volume drops as fluid rushes into the intestine to dilute sugar. Protein is Paramount: Prioritising protein and healthy fats helps buffer the absorption of carbohydrates, significantly reducing the risk of a dumping episode. The Golden Rule: Separating liquids from solids by 30 minutes prevents food from being washed through the pouch too quickly, giving your body time to digest. Quotes "It’s not just an ‘oops, better not eat that’. It is genuinely distressing. It can happen accidentally... and it can make people afraid to eat at all." "The goal should be understanding your new body and making informed choices, not living in fear of your next meal." "If you eat a meal with at least five to eight grams of fibre, you will have a significantly lower dumping rate than low-fibre meals." "We need to separate our liquids from our solids... The liquid will wash the food through your pouch really quickly, and that is exactly what we are trying to avoid." 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠⁠https://www.kiomethod.com⁠ ⁠📺⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod⁠ ⁠📸⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod⁠ ⁠🎵⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod⁠ ⁠📘⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod⁠ ⁠💼⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod⁠⁠ 🔗 Follow & Connect with Sonya Black 🌐 Sonya Black CBT: ⁠https://www.sonyacbt.com/⁠⁠ 🌐 LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonya-black-506b763b/⁠ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Change sounds simple until you’re the one trying to do it. This conversation strips therapy back to what actually helps when life feels overwhelming, habits feel stuck, and self-criticism is running the show. Sonya brings a grounded, human take on anxiety, trauma and why coping strategies often make sense — until they don’t. We talk about why knowing better doesn’t mean doing better, how the nervous system drives behaviour, and why compassion isn’t weakness, it’s regulation. From CBT as a way of living, not just a therapy model, to the long-term impact of trauma, women’s health and perinatal experiences, this is about understanding yourself rather than fixing yourself. If you’ve ever felt frustrated that change feels harder than it should, this will land. KEY TAKEAWAYS Behaviour is often protection, not failure Change feels threatening when safety hasn’t been established Compassion reduces resistance — it doesn’t excuse behaviour Trauma lives in the nervous system, not just memory Small, repeatable steps create lasting change KEY QUOTES “Most coping strategies start as survival, not self-sabotage.” “Knowing what to do doesn’t mean your nervous system feels safe doing it.” “Compassion isn’t soft — it’s stabilising.” “Trauma doesn’t disappear just because life moves on.” “Change starts when you stop fighting yourself.” 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠https://www.kiomethod.com 📺⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod 📸⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod 🎵⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod 📘⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod 💼⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod⁠ 🔗 Follow & Connect with Sonya Black 🌐 Sonya Black CBT: https://www.sonyacbt.com/⁠ 🌐 LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonya-black-506b763b/ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

You don’t need polished; you need real, so I’m stripping away the layers to show you exactly where my battle with obesity began. In this raw and incredibly personal episode, I take you back to my childhood in East London to uncover the deep-seated roots of my relationship with food. From growing up in a family where weight issues were the norm, to navigating a complex and painful dynamic with a mother carrying her own unresolved trauma, I’m holding nothing back. We explore how early labels like "the naughty child" shape our psyche, the devastating impact of isolation during my school years, and the specific, heartbreaking moments that sowed the seeds for my future struggles with mental health and weight. This isn't just a story about calories; it's a story about how our environments create us. If you’ve ever felt like your weight is tied to a past you can’t quite shake, this episode is for you. KEY TAKEAWAYS Obesity has deep roots: Weight gain is rarely just about food; it is often the physical manifestation of unresolved childhood trauma and environmental conditioning. Generational trauma cycles: Unhealed wounds in parents—like Mel’s mother’s abusive childhood—can manifest as emotional distance or harsh discipline, deeply affecting the next generation’s self-worth. The power of words: Throwaway comments made to children, such as "don't let a boy touch you," can create catastrophic misunderstandings and intense fear that lasts for years. Isolation fuels the issue: Social exclusion at school and a lack of emotional support at home can drive a child toward isolation, creating a breeding ground for future mental health struggles. Environment shapes identity: Being labelled "naughty" or "bad" from a young age can become a self-fulfilling prophecy that impacts adult mental health and behaviour. TOP QUOTES "I’m laying myself bare because you don't need polished; you need real. You think you know why you're obese, but I’m going to tell you the things I don't talk about outside my nearest circles." "Mum was in her element. But this awesome little doll that she carried around like a trophy didn't seem to show enough signs of being receptive to her many elaborate trappings." "You'll never guess what she did today. I went upstairs, and she was hanging him out of the bedroom window! I was two and a half. What a little ninja I was." "Don't you let a boy touch you, or you'll end up pregnant. I mean, this was coming from someone who couldn't bring herself to say 'your slip was showing.'" "I was quickly becoming a people pleaser. I didn't fancy them, so they could treat me like one of them... I accepted it." 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠https://www.kiomethod.com 📺⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod 📸⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod 🎵⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod 📘⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod 💼⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod⁠ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠

Get ready to dive into the world of weight loss injections and the truth behind them! Join Mel as she chats with the brilliant Shaw Somers, who breaks down the ins and outs of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. These injections have taken the health world by storm, but what do they really do, and are they safe? Shaw shares his expertise on the evolution of these drugs, their side effects, and the importance of proper medical guidance. Ever wondered about the criteria for getting these treatments? Or how they stack up against surgery? Shaw tackles these burning questions and more, all while keeping it real about the challenges of obesity and the stigma surrounding it. KEY TAKEAWAYS Understanding GLP-1 Medications: GLP-1s, originally developed for diabetes treatment, have emerged as effective weight loss injections. Safety and Side Effects: While GLP-1 medications are generally safe, they can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and gallstones. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to understand the risks and benefits tailored to individual health needs. Eligibility Criteria for Treatment: To qualify for GLP-1 injections, individuals typically need a body mass index (BMI) over 30 or a BMI of 28 with obesity-related health issues. Long-Term Commitment and Costs: Weight loss injections can be expensive, often costing between £200 to £300 per month. It's important to consider the long-term financial implications and explore whether surgical options might be more cost-effective in the long run. The Role of the NHS in Obesity Management: The NHS faces significant challenges in addressing obesity, which is a major health crisis. KEY MOMENTS "Obesity is probably the major health challenge for our generation and the next generation in terms of the nation's health." "No one's ever chosen to be really, really overweight or have really severe metabolic illness. No one chooses to have type 2 diabetes because they've put on three stone." "It's about education. Teaching kids what is food, how to eat, that sugar is not a food." "If you're going to be on this for the next 10 years, you might as well have an operation because it's half the price and you don't have to do injections all the time." CHAPTERS [00:01:14] Weight loss injections explained. [00:05:32] Latest weight loss medications. [00:11:02] Injectable medication eligibility criteria. [00:13:09] One-on-one weight loss consultations. [00:19:20] Perfection in body image. [00:21:10] Eating disorders and medication risks. [00:26:28] Obesity as a health challenge. [00:30:36] Surgery cost-effectiveness and benefits. [00:34:43] Stigma surrounding obesity. 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: https://www.kiomethod.com📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod 🔗 Follow & Connect with Dr Shaw Somers 🌐 Dr Shaw Somers: https://www.shawsomers.com/ 🌐 Streamline Weightloss: https://www.streamlineweightlosssurgery.com/ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

A nine-year-old girl forced into weight loss surgery? It’s a heartbreaking reality that’s left many of us reeling.  This week, we dive deep into a shocking story that highlights the alarming lengths some parents will go to in the name of health, and the devastating impact it can have on a child’s life. Join the conversation as we unpack the complexities of body image, societal pressures, and the urgent need for compassion and understanding in how we approach children's health. It’s not just about weight; it’s about nurturing our kids and allowing them to grow without fear or shame. Let’s challenge the stigma surrounding childhood obesity and explore how we can create a supportive environment that prioritises emotional well-being over surgical solutions. Together, we can advocate for a world where children are celebrated for who they are, not judged for how they look. KEY TAKEAWAYS Childhood Matters: A child's body is still developing, and making drastic decisions like weight loss surgery can have lifelong consequences. It's crucial to prioritise their emotional and physical well-being over societal pressures. Parental Responsibility: Parents must take accountability for their child's health and nutrition. Instead of resorting to surgical solutions, they should focus on nurturing healthy habits and providing support. Cultural Awareness: While cultural beliefs can influence decisions, they should not justify harmful actions. It's essential to advocate for children's rights and ensure they are protected from adult pressures. The Importance of Advocacy: Children need advocates—doctors, psychologists, and social workers—who can intervene when their well-being is at risk. A collaborative approach is vital to safeguard vulnerable individuals. Promoting Compassion Over Punishment: Society must shift its focus from shaming and punishing children for their weight to fostering understanding, education, and compassion. Building confidence in children is about nurturing, not carving. KEY MOMENTS "A nine-year-old girl was forced to have weight loss surgery in Egypt by her parents. Nine years old." "This is non-reversible. It's an exceptionally difficult and complex operation to perform and it will change how her body absorbs food, nutrients and energy for the rest of her life." "Where were the safeguards? Where was the psychologist? Who stopped to even ask this terrified little girl if she even knew what was happening?" "Desperation and a lack of education does not justify damage. A parent's job is to protect, not to project." "We need to talk about prevention, not surgery. Education, psychology, compassion, they're much more important." TIMESTAMPS [00:02:56] Child weight loss surgery controversy. [00:06:43] Pathologizing normal bodies in society. [00:09:48] Child shaming and its impact. 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠https://www.kiomethod.com 📺⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod 📸⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod 🎵⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod 📘⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod 💼⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod⁠ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Fake weight loss injections are everywhere — and they’re dangerous. When people feel desperate, they take risks. Ordering jabs online. Trusting promises that sound too good to be true. Sometimes those choices nearly cost lives. This cuts through the rise of fake weight loss injections, why people are drawn to them, and the real physical and psychological risks involved. It also shares clear red flags to watch for, helping you spot scams and stay safe. Weight loss should never mean gambling with your health. Real support, proper medical care, and honest information matter more than quick fixes. KEY TAKEAWAYS • Fake weight loss jabs aren’t just scams — they can be deadly. Counterfeit injections are turning up in unregulated pens and vials filled with unknown substances, putting lives at serious risk. • Desperation makes good people take dangerous chances. When you’re exhausted, ashamed, and promised a quick fix, risky decisions don’t come from stupidity — they come from survival mode. • Real weight loss medication requires real medical care. GLP-1 injections should only ever come with proper consultations, screening, monitoring, and legitimate UK providers — anything else is a red flag. • Medication doesn’t fix what’s going on in your head or heart. Injections can quiet appetite, but they don’t heal emotional eating, trauma, stress, or identity — and that’s why support matters. • Talking about this openly can genuinely save lives. The more we expose fake products and share safe, informed paths forward, the fewer people will feel pushed into dangerous choices. KEY MOMENTS "We've gone from fake watches and handbags to fake medication. And that, quite honestly, scares the shit out of me." "Imagine thinking you're taking something to help you lose weight safely, and you're actually injecting insulin that sends your blood sugar crashing so low, you end up in A&E with hyperglycaemic shock." "They only work whilst you're taking them. As soon as you stop, your hormones go back to their old baseline, your appetite comes back, and unless you've changed your habits and your headspace, most of the weight creeps back on." "If you've been tempted to buy from some too good to be true source online, I promise you're not stupid, weak or greedy. You are human. You're tired. You're trying to survive in a body and a system that feel stacked against you." TIMESTAMPS [00:01:10] Fake weight loss injections. [00:05:09] Life-threatening fake medications. [00:10:21] Change your appetite, not story. [00:16:07] Stigmatises obesity, underfunds support. 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠https://www.kiomethod.com  📺⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod  📸⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod  🎵⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod  📘⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod  💼⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠

Weight regain doesn’t happen overnight — it sneaks up on you. That quiet shift in habits. Skipping meals. Grazing. Eating on autopilot. Using food to get through a tough moment. Before you know it, clothes feel tighter and the familiar fear starts creeping in. This is an honest, no-nonsense look at how weight regain actually begins — not with one bad decision, but with lots of small ones that feel harmless at the time. There’s no blame here, and no shame. Just awareness, reflection, and a reminder that regain isn’t failure — it’s feedback. If that “here we go again” feeling sounds familiar, this is a gentle nudge to pause, reset, and reconnect with the habits and support that help keep weight off for the long haul. You’re not broken — and you’re not on your own. Recognise Sneaky Weight Regain: Weight regain often happens gradually and can be unnoticed until it becomes significant. It's important to be aware of subtle behaviour changes that may lead to weight gain. Mindful Eating: Eating mindfully is crucial. This includes being aware of when and how you eat, avoiding distractions, and taking smaller bites to help control portion sizes and improve satisfaction. Monitor Your Scales: Regularly weighing yourself can help you stay accountable. Avoiding the scales may indicate you're avoiding confronting your weight regain. However, don't obsessively weigh yourself multiple times a day, as this can lead to negative feelings. Emotional Awareness: Be conscious of using food as a coping mechanism for stress or emotional challenges. Recognising when you fall into a mindset of "I'll sod it" can help you address underlying issues before they lead to weight regain. Physical Signs of Regain: Pay attention to physical signs such as tighter clothing or avoiding social situations due to anxiety about food choices. These can be indicators that you need to reassess your habits and take action before the situation worsens. KEY MOMENTS "When we've lost a lot of weight and we start to regain, it's because our weight has become sneaky. It starts creeping in through the back door of our behaviour changes." "Have you found that you are skipping meals? Or, even worse maybe, skipping meals and then overeating later?" "When we eat, we need to eat mindfully. We need to sit down at a table and just concentrate on eating our food." "If you've started avoiding social situations, if you have gone out and bought a bigger size, big warning sign." "There is never a better time to take action than now. So let's get onto it." TIMESTAMPS [00:03:15] Birthday cake and weight regain. [00:05:12] Drinking empty calories. [00:10:10] Emotional warning signs in weight loss. [00:14:08] Weight regain and maintenance strategies. 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠https://www.kiomethod.com  📺⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod  📸⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod  🎵⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod  📘⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod  💼⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod⁠ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Get ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about obesity and weight loss! Join the conversation with the incredibly insightful Dr Shaw Somers, a leading bariatric surgeon and media commentator, as he dives deep into the complexities of obesity, metabolism, and the impact of our environment on weight gain. Shaw shares his journey from cancer surgery to becoming a pioneer in metabolic surgery, revealing how our bodies react to food and why it’s not just about willpower. He sheds light on the role of genetics, stress, and even sleep in our struggle with weight. Plus, discover the latest in weight loss treatments, including the buzz around GLP-1 injections and how they fit into the bigger picture of health. KEY TAKEAWAYS Obesity is a disease, not a personal failure. Recognised by the World Health Organization as a complex condition shaped by genetics, environment, and metabolism — not willpower alone. Your environment matters more than you think. Stress, sleep, and food access all influence metabolism and eating behaviours, often working against long-term weight loss. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Effective treatment can include lifestyle change, medication, or surgery — and should always be guided by qualified professionals. Bariatric surgery is now metabolic surgery. The focus has shifted from weight loss to treating underlying metabolic dysfunction. The biggest changes aren’t just physical. Many people experience improved confidence, health, relationships, and quality of life — not just a lower number on the scale. KEY MOMENTS "We now recognise that good quality sleep is absolutely essential to be able to moderate your metabolism and for your body to work properly." "Obesity is a disorder, and it's why companies are spending millions trying to figure out drugs that help treat it." "The way your body deals with food, how it digests it, how it assimilates it, is different for every individual." "We now see all the different treatments that we have available as a spectrum." "You will change. You will expect and want different things." TIMESTAMPS [00:01:25] Obesity as a disease. [00:05:31] Environment's role in weight gain. [00:10:21] Satiety and metabolic disorders. [00:13:15] Metabolic surgery vs. bariatric surgery. [00:17:46] Preventive measures for obesity. [00:22:16] Cooking as bonding time. [00:28:17] Obesity as a spectrum. [00:30:45] Weight loss surgeries overview. [00:34:20] Weight loss surgery options. [00:41:00] Surgical industry and GLP-1s. [00:42:50] Weight loss and relationship changes. 🔗 Follow & Connect with KIO Method 🌐 Website: ⁠https://www.kiomethod.com 📺⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@kiomethod 📸⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/kiomethod 🎵⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kiomethod 📘⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/kiomethod 💼⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiomethod⁠ HOST BIO Mel Harris is a weight loss mentor, podcast host, and founder of KIO Method Ltd, specialising in long-term weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery and weight loss injections. After losing nearly 15 stone (90kg) following weight loss surgery in 2004, Mel has spent over 20 years navigating the realities of keeping weight off. With lived experience of bariatric surgery, weight regain, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic health challenges, Mel is on a mission to close the gap between losing weight and keeping it off for life. Through honest, compassionate conversations, she cuts through misinformation, diet culture, and shame — offering real support, insight, and zero judgement. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠