In this episode of the Busy Bariatrics Podcast, I sit down with Chelsea Bernardez, a registered dietitian, bariatric patient, and expert in nutrition, to talk about something that still confuses a lot of people: fat. Not the kind you’re trying to lose, but the kind your body actually needs to function properly.

Chelsea explains why dietary fat is essential after bariatric surgery, how focusing on quality over quantity can make a huge difference, and why your body relies on healthy fats for long-term health and hormone balance. We also tackle real-life challenges, like balancing a bariatric diet while feeding a family that may not always be on the same page when it comes to nutrition.

If you have ever avoided an avocado because you thought it would slow your progress, this episode will clear up those misconceptions. Get ready to learn, laugh, and walk away with the knowledge to make fats a healthy part of your diet without second-guessing yourself.

Key Takeaways

• Chelsea’s journey into bariatrics started with her own surgery—but how did it change her approach as a dietitian?

• Fats play a crucial role in nutrient absorption after surgery—are you getting enough of the right ones?

• When it comes to fat in a bariatric diet, quality matters more than quantity—but do you know which ones to focus on?

• Your fat needs change throughout life—are you adjusting your diet to keep up?

• Healthy fats can keep you fuller longer and boost energy—but which ones actually work best?

• Struggling to make family meals work? There’s a way to balance your bariatric needs with meals your kids will actually eat.

• Adding healthy fats to your meals doesn’t have to be complicated—but are you making it harder than it needs to be?

• Nutrition education is the key to long-term success—but how do you separate fact from fiction?

• Fat has a bad reputation, but understanding its role can change everything you thought you knew about weight loss.

• Women’s health and hormones rely on the right fats—but are you eating what your body really needs?

  
  

  Timestamps

  Chapters

  
  

  00:00 Introduction to Bariatric Care and Personal Journey

  02:26 The Importance of Dietary Fats Post-Surgery

  06:00 Understanding Fats: Myths and Realities

  08:40 The Role of Fats in Different Life Stages

  13:35 Navigating Dietary Needs with Underlying Conditions

  15:11 Identifying Good vs. Bad Fats

  16:19 Family Meals: Integrating Bariatric Needs

  18:39 Incorporating Healthy Fats into Meals

  27:49 Understanding Nutrition Labels and Macronutrients

  30:07 Nutritional Insights for Bariatric Patients

  32:26 The Role of Peanut Butter in Diet

  35:35 Understanding Fats and Satiety

  38:44 The Importance of Carbohydrates

  42:07 Healthy Fats and Hormonal Health

  45:56 Communicating Needs and Boundaries

  47:06 Finding Healthy Sources of Dopamine

  
  

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