Top takeaways from this conversation

1. It’s Not Just “Calories In, Calories Out

Let’s bust the biggest myth first. Charlotte explained that hormones, sleep deprivation, stress, and your energy needs all massively impact how your body behaves — from how hungry you feel to what foods you crave to how (and where) your body stores fat.

So if you’ve ever blamed yourself for “failing” a diet, take a breath. You’re not broken — you’re just human.

💡 Try this: Instead of guilt, try curiosity. Track your mood, sleep, cravings, and cycle for two weeks. Look for patterns and be kind to yourself.

2. There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Diet

Each mum on the panel shared a different story — from emotional snacking during IVF, to baby weight that didn’t shift for years, to trying all the plans and finally landing on something sustainable.

The common thread? No plan works unless it works for your lifestyle.

Charlotte shared that flexibility and sustainability matter far more than rigid rules or trendy extremes.

💡 Try this: Pick one small change you can commit to for a week — like swapping one refined carb for a protein-rich alternative, or going for a 30-minute walk. Start small and build momentum.

3. Weight Loss Medications Can Help — When Used Properly

There’s a lot of noise online about new appetite-suppressant medications. Charlotte cut through the hype to explain how they actually work, who they’re suitable for, and the importance of pairing them with proper medical advice and healthy habits.

They’re not a quick fix — but for the right person, they can be a valuable tool.

💡 Try this: If you’re curious, book a proper consultation with a trusted medical provider. Not a clinic from an Instagram ad.

4. Mindset Is the Real Game-Changer

Tiredness. Perfectionism. “All-or-nothing” thinking. These are the real reasons we so often fall off the wagon.

Charlotte reminded us that one “bad” day doesn’t undo everything — and that self-compassion and flexible structureget you further than guilt or punishment ever will.

💡 Try this: Create a “reset” ritual. When the wheels fall off (hello chocolate at 9am), let the next day be kind and achievable — not punishing or extreme.

5. Community Makes the Difference

Whether it’s the support of a slimming group, your mum mates, or a programme like Supermums — having a safe, supportive community changes everything.

You’re not meant to do it alone. And sharing your real-life struggles and your wins creates the accountability (and compassion) we all need.

💡 Try this: Find a buddy or community to check in with weekly. Celebrate the small wins — even if it’s just drinking more water or saying no to that third biscuit.

Weight, Confidence & Health: Why It’s All Connected

Weight is often seen as a number on the scale—but for women, it’s deeply connected to our energy, confidence, and ability to show up in life. Whether it’s being too exhausted to play with your kids, feeling uncomfortable in clothes you used to love, or being too self-conscious to enjoy the beach—how we feel in our bodies matters.

Charlotte reminds us that a healthy weight isn’t about comparison or pressure. It’s about your health, your energy, and your confidence.

“If weight had nothing to do with health, doctors wouldn’t care. But excess fat is linked to so many health risks—and even more than that, it affects how you feel about yourself every day.” —Dr. Charlotte Norton

7-Day Healthy Weight Reset Challenge

Day 1: Drink 2 litres of water

Day 2: Track your meals without judgement

Day 3: Walk for 20+ minutes

Day 4: Add protein to every meal

Day 5: Declutter your snack cupboard

Day 6: Have one ‘mindful’ meal with no distractions

Day 7: Reflect: How do you feel?

Resources & Support

• Book a consultation at The Slimming Clinic 

Ambitious Women Mindset: Goals, Energy & Resilience