Lorraine Kerr, 54, has detailed her journey of overcoming significant weight gain and associated health challenges after reaching a size 18 during menopause. Motivated by the death of diet expert Dr. Michael Mosley, Kerr adopted his Fast 800 program, which she credits with helping her achieve a healthier lifestyle and weight.
Kerr, who is 5ft 2in, had struggled with emotional eating for years, leading to a gradual weight increase. She recalled a period in her late twenties when the deaths of her stepmother and biological mother triggered comfort eating habits. Her diet included high-calorie items, and her weaknesses were specific pastries and cakes, contributing to her reaching 14st 7lb and a size 18.
In June 2024, while on holiday in Symi, Greece, at age 53, Kerr realized her physical condition was limiting her enjoyment of activities like walking. This personal realization, coupled with news of Dr. Mosley's death on the same island, served as a catalyst for change. Inspired by Mosley's dedication to improving health, Kerr committed to The Very Fast 800 program.
The Fast 800 Program
This program involved consuming two to three Mediterranean-style meals daily, totaling 800 to 900 calories, for 12 weeks, alongside recommended exercises. Kerr found the initial phase challenging but persistent. After 12 weeks, she lost a stone. She then transitioned to The New 5:2 plan, which involves eating 800 calories on two days of the week and adopting a sensible eating pattern for the remaining days. By the summer of 2025, a year later, she reached her goal weight of 8st and a size 8.
Reflecting on her journey, Kerr recently returned to Greece, visiting Paros. The experience was emotional, as she felt a connection to Dr. Mosley and expressed gratitude for his influence on her life. She noted her ability to climb a hill without stopping, a feat she previously could not accomplish.
Dietary and Exercise Changes
Kerr embraced vegetables, which she previously disliked, with the help of The Fast 800 app, which provided recipes and shopping lists. Her typical daily intake now includes Greek yogurt with fruit and nuts for breakfast, chickpea curry or broccoli soup for lunch, and herb-crusted fish or beef hotpot for dinner. She follows The Way of Life plan, a low-carb Mediterranean diet without calorie restrictions, allowing for occasional treats like homemade orange and almond loaf.
Her exercise regimen initially involved five days a week of resistance training and HIIT at home, following the app's guidance. She progressed from beginner to advanced levels. Currently, she incorporates yoga and swims in the sea five mornings a week, finding the 15-minute walk to and from the beach, including a steep hill, manageable.
Health Improvements
Beyond weight loss, Kerr experienced significant health benefits. Within three days of starting the diet, her Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) symptoms, including cramps and bloating, disappeared and have not returned. She also found that artificial sweeteners exacerbated her IBS. Prior to the diet, she was borderline diabetic with unstable blood sugar levels, which she reversed within a year. Her menopausal hot flushes also subsided within a couple of months.
Kerr advises focusing on desired life changes rather than solely on weight loss for sustained success. After achieving her weight goal, she redirected her energy into other pursuits, including her work in local government and fine-art photography, to maintain her new outlook. She also recommends avoiding daily weigh-ins, suggesting weekly or bi-weekly checks instead, and practicing mindfulness when eating, especially when consuming treats like dark chocolate, a habit she shares with Dr. Mosley.
Kerr continues to utilize The Fast 800 app for exercise routines and meal ideas, also engaging with the platform's health coaches and support groups for both receiving and providing assistance.
