The BariNation Foundation Podcast

In this inspiring second part of our two-part series, we continue the conversation with the incredible Dr. Sarah Hayek, diving deeper into the transformative world of bariatric surgery. As we step into 2025, BariNation is embracing the theme of curiosity. Dr. Hayek is here to empower us with insights, wisdom, and practical advice on how curiosity can reshape our bariatric journeys. From understanding surgical techniques to navigating the evolving landscape of obesity treatment, this episode is packed with hope, motivation, and tools to help you take the next step toward living your best life. Let’s explore what’s possible together!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:23] Perfection is not real, and dealing with the perceptions of bariatric surgery
• [9:12] Finding the right physician and the food choices you make to fight obesity
• [15:10] The differences between laparoscopic and robotic bariatric surgery
• [27:56] Dr. Hayek’s predictions for obesity treatment in 2025
• [38:30] Take advantage of the complimentary three-month membership to Bari-Nation provided by Dr. Hayek
• [13:44] Being relentless about curiosity to thrive and actively using the BariNation community

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Focusing on the present moment and leaning into curiosity is critical for creating meaningful life changes. By understanding your "why," breaking perceived barriers, and trusting the process, you can take purposeful steps forward without being paralyzed by fear or perfectionism.
• Robotic surgery offers advantages over traditional laparoscopic surgery, including enhanced precision, reduced recovery times, and increased surgeon comfort and control. The technology allows surgeons to achieve better outcomes by minimizing human error and maximizing efficiency during procedures.
• Bariatric surgery and medications are tools in a comprehensive treatment plan for obesity. Connecting with a trusted surgeon and community is crucial to embracing this life-changing journey, leaving shame and miseducation behind.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website 
• Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-community
• Want to see bonus content? Head over to Patreon to get more and to support the podcast for as low as $5 per month! https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast 

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Kentucky Bariatric Institute - Website

GUEST BIO: 

Kentucky Bariatric Institute (KBI) is pleased to welcome Sarah Hayek, MD, MEd, to Georgetown and central Kentucky communities. Dr. Hayek will expand the bariatric program’s availability by offering robotic bariatric surgery and several general surgery procedures. Dr. Hayek completed medical school at Geisinger Commonwealth in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and completed residency in general surgery with an additional year in surgical education research at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, Pennsylvania. She has been a practicing surgeon for over two years, with experience and training in general and bariatric robotic surgeries.

ABOUT:

If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.

Bariatric Surgery, BariNation Community Support, Bariatric Diet, BariNation, Bariatric Journey,  NSV's, GLP-1, VSG, Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, LapBand, Roux en Y, Gastric Bypass, SADI-S, Curiosity, Thrive, Laparoscopic, Robotic Bariatric Surgery, Da Vinici 5, Intuitive Surgical

Welcome to the BariNation podcast! Today, we're diving into the theme of curiosity—how it shapes our journey, fuels personal growth, and helps us navigate life after bariatric surgery. Curiosity isn’t just about asking questions; it’s about staying open to new possibilities, exploring uncharted paths, and discovering what works best for you. Our definition of thriving is to progress towards or realize a goal despite or because of circumstances, and curiosity plays a key role in helping us thrive. Together, we’ll unpack how curiosity can lead to breakthroughs, deepen your self-awareness, and transform your perspective on health, wellness, and beyond. Let’s jump in and spark some curiosity!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [0:49] Using the tool of curiosity to thrive in 2025 after bariatric surgery
• [2:54] Jason describes how relentless curiosity has taken him to the gym
• [7:01] Natalie shares how she struggled with what was within her control
• [10:33] This episode is for everyone to thrive and use relentless curiosity 
• [11:53] Get curious about your bariatric journey and try new things within your control
• [13:44] Being relentless about curiosity to thrive and actively using the BariNation community

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Try using curiosity as a proactive tool to overcome obstacles and thrive, regardless of circumstances. This approach involves shifting from frustration to asking empowering questions like "I wonder what would happen if...?" to spark problem-solving and innovation.
• Instead of feeling overwhelmed by all the challenges, try solving one problem at a time. This focused approach allows for incremental progress, whether adapting a fitness routine, making bariatric dietary adjustments, or tackling life challenges.
• Practicing curiosity within a supportive community amplifies its impact. Engaging with others who understand and encourage experimentation creates a safe space to try new things, share insights, and celebrate progress together and bariatric surgery.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website 
• Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-community
• Want to see bonus content? Head over to Patreon to get more and to support the podcast for as low as $5 per month! https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast 

ABOUT:

If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.

Welcome to the first episode of 2025! Our theme for the year is Relentless Curiosity. Dr. Sarah Hayek, a bariatric surgeon at the Kentucky Bariatric Institute, is back on the podcast to share her husband’s journey through bariatric surgery. She discusses the emotional and physical factors behind his decision and highlights the importance of embracing change in overcoming obesity. We explore how the surgery isn’t just for extreme obesity, the role of community support, and why some medical approaches may inadvertently contribute to the problem. Tune in to learn how bariatric surgery can be transformative for individuals at different stages of obesity and why support is key to long-term success.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:42] The theme for BariNation in 2025 is Relentless Curiosity 
• [4:36] Dr. Hayek shares her husband’s journey through bariatric surgery
• [15:35] Looking at the risk factors and deciding to have bariatric surgery
• [25:21] Understanding that obesity is a disease
• [30:56] Surgery is not just for the obese
• [39:41] Obesity is an isolating disease, and you need the community of the BariNation
• [48:56] The Kentucky Bariatric Institutes approach to obesity

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Bariatric surgery is not limited to individuals with extreme obesity. Those with moderate excess weight or health risks from visceral fat can also benefit, making surgery a preventative health measure rather than a last resort.
• The decision to undergo bariatric surgery often stems from the realization that traditional weight management methods—like diet and exercise—may not be enough. It's a critical tool in a broader treatment plan, including medical support and lifestyle adjustments.
• Long-term success in weight management post-surgery is tied to daily habits, continuous care, and emotional support. The community of Bari-Nation plays a vital role in helping individuals navigate challenges and maintain motivation throughout their transformative journey.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website 
• Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-community
• Want to see bonus content? Head over to Patreon to get more and to support the podcast for as low as $5 per month! https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast 

GUEST RESOURCES:

Kentucky Bariatric Institute - Website

BIOGRAPHY: 

Kentucky Bariatric Institute (KBI) is excited to welcome Sarah Hayek, MD, MEd, to the Georgetown and central Kentucky communities. Dr. Hayek will enhance the bariatric program by offering robotic bariatric surgery and general surgery procedures. She completed medical school at Geisinger Commonwealth in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and a residency in general surgery at Geisinger Medical Center, with an additional year in surgical education research. With over two years of experience, Dr. Hayek specializes in general and bariatric robotic surgeries.

ABOUT:

If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.

BariNation - Website

BariNation - Podcast

Bariatric Surgery, Obesity, Disease, Bari-Nation Community Support, Bariatric Diet, Bari-Nation, NSV's, GLP-1, VSG, Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, LapBand, Roux en Y, Gastric Bypass, SADI-S, Health, Weight Management, Emotional Support

As we reflect on 2024, we’re diving into the challenges, the victories, and those profound “aha” moments that have shaped us this year. Together, we’ll share what we’ve learned from the most challenging parts of our journey, celebrate the wins that have propelled us forward, and explore how leaning into our incredible BariNation community has made all the difference.

But that’s not all—we’re thrilled to look ahead to 2025 with bold predictions of bariatric care and obesity treatment. We’ll also reveal this year’s community support theme, focusing on how relentless curiosity transforms our journeys.

So, grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s reflect, predict, and dream big for the year ahead!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [3:02] Jason and Natalie share what has been their biggest challenges for 2024
• [17:24] April shares the importance of leaning into the Bari-Nation Community 
• [22:12] Finding hope in the Bari-Nation Community
• [25:00] The hosts talk about the wins they have had in 2024 and how much they appreciate the listener's support
• [35:15] Leaning into the tool of curiosity for 2025
• [37:55] The hosts make bold bariatric predictions for 2025

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Recognizing that you're not fully participating in your own life can be a harsh reality, but it also opens the door to transformation. Moving from survival mode to actively committing to your potential is not just a challenge—it's an opportunity to reclaim your life, shed the emotional and symbolic weight holding you back, and propel yourself forward with newfound clarity and purpose.
• Life's opportunities often appear unexpectedly and require bold, immediate action. The lesson is in recognizing that while challenges and hurdles may persist, stepping through them—even if unprepared—can lead to transformation when a door opens. 
• The bariatric journey isn’t about learning entirely new skills—it’s about approaching the things you already know how to do in a different, healthier way.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website 
• Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-community
• Want to see bonus content? Head over to Patreon to get more and to support the podcast for as low as $5 per month! https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast 

OTHER RESOURCES: 

Treo Foundation - Website

ABOUT:

If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.

Bariatric Surgery, BariNation Community Support, Bariatric Diet, BariNation, Bariatric Journey, BariNation Community, NSV's, GLP-1, VSG, Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, LapBand, Roux en Y, Gastric Bypass, SADI-S, Treo Foundation, Bariatric Challenges, Bariatric Wins, Post Op Support, Pre Op Preparation, Revision Surgery, Obesity Disease, Adjunct Treatment, Shifting Mindset, Sustainable Habits, Emotional Intensity, Manageable Change, Small Adjustments, Meaningful Progress, Bariatric Journey, Healthy Perspective, Positive Transformation

Kelly Broadwater is back and we’re diving into a topic that impacts every bariatric patient: the Three P’s—Product, Preparation, and Portion. Together, we’ll explore the differences between diet culture and the bariatric diet, why no two bariatric eating plans are the same, and how to start listening to your body post-surgery. We’ll also share insights on how your relationship with food evolves and touch on an exciting bariatric eating experience training launching in January. Whether you’re newly post-op or years into your journey, this episode is packed with valuable tips to help you feel your best. Let’s get started!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [0:57] Kelly defines the diet culture as opposed to the bariatric diet
• [3:12] Discussion of the three P’s:  Product, Preparation and Portion
• [6:10] No two bariatric patients eating plans are identical
• [8:33] Listening to your body
• [10:50] Discussion of the bariatric eating experience training beginning in January

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• A "diet" supports health and recovery post-surgery for bariatric patients, unlike "diet culture," which emphasizes appearance. Understanding this distinction promotes a focus on nourishment and a healthy mindset.
• Bariatric success relies on the "Three P's"—product, preparation, and portion. Choose quality foods, control portions, and mind how dishes are prepared to avoid discomfort and maintain a healthy relationship with food.
• Your dietary needs change after bariatric surgery. While early guidelines focus on recovery, long-term success requires listening to your body, understanding how it reacts to different foods, and adapting your choices. This approach helps create a sustainable, personalized plan and shows that initial rules aren’t always permanent.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website 
• Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-community
• Want to see bonus content? Head over to Patreon to get more and to support the podcast for as low as $5 per month! https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast 

GUEST RESOURCES:

Kelly Broadwater - LinkedIn

https://www.facebook.com/people/Be-Barieducated/61551171285582/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

https://www.linkedin.com/company/barieducated/

www.bebarieducated.com

BIOGRAPHY: 

Kelly has provided preoperative assessments and postoperative counseling to metabolic and bariatric surgery patients for over 20 years. An expert on eating disorders in the bariatric population, she is passionate about educating others on this topic. She is the co-author of the book BariEDucated, published in 2023.

ABOUT:

If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.

BariNation - Website

BariNation - Podcast

We’re so excited to share what’s been happening in our lives! Over the past few months, we’ve been pausing, pivoting, and resetting, and we’re so grateful for your grace and support during this time. In this episode, Natalie talks about the whirlwind of starting a new job, moving to Portland, and how BariNation has helped her stay grounded through all the chaos. April shares why taking a step back to realign priorities has been so important for her, while Jason opens up about the confidence he’s gained through our amazing community. From taking big risks to embracing moments of vulnerability, we’ve all been navigating some big changes, and we’re so excited to share it all with you.

Thank you for being part of our journey. Together, we’re proving just how powerful a supportive community like BariNation can be!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [0:34] What’s going on with Natalie
• [4:03] April describes the massive network of BariNation
• [5:04] Natalie is working out the details
• [7:00] Jason shares his new routine 
• [11:06] The importance of BariNation and the support provided
• [11:51] April explains why she has been more visible and Natalie reminds listeners that April has done an exemplary job keeping the program rolling

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Embracing New Beginnings Amidst Chaos. Natalie is navigating significant life changes, including starting a new job and relocating to Portland. Despite the chaos, she remains hopeful and views these transitions as opportunities she's been waiting for. Her experience highlights the importance of prioritizing, focusing on self-care, and using community support like BariNation to stay grounded.
• Rediscovering Confidence and Community. Jason has transitioned to working from home, which has freed up time to connect more deeply with himself and the BariNation community. Through these connections, he's experienced personal growth, building confidence in ways he never imagined, like speaking at events and embracing moments of vulnerability. This shift reflects the transformative power of aligning personal and professional well-being.
• The Power of Pausing and Pivoting. April emphasizes the need to pause and reassess to realign priorities. BariNation has required adaptability, especially as the team manages both personal and professional responsibilities. This approach exemplifies how strategic reflection and pivots can ensure sustained impact and growth, even amid life’s unpredictability.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website 
• Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-community
• Want to see bonus content? Head over to Patreon to get more and to support the podcast for as low as $5 per month! https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast 

ABOUT:

If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.

Welcome to the Barination Podcast! I'm thrilled you're joining me today because we have an incredible guest: Kayla Girgen, a Registered Dietitian and Certified Personal Trainer. Kayla has a wealth of knowledge about life after bariatric surgery, and today, we're diving into some powerful topics that can make a real difference in your journey.

We’ll explore the concept of slider foods—what they are, why they’re easier to consume than whole foods, and where protein shakes fit in. Kayla also sheds light on managing gut hormones, cushioning carbs to maintain stable blood sugar, and how anxiety can impact the process of post-surgery nutrition.

If you’ve ever struggled with protein choices, Kayla’s here to guide you in making choices that truly support a healthier lifestyle. She reminds us to give ourselves grace as we navigate the ups and downs.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [0:28] Some programs BariNation offers to its members.
• [2:11] What is a slider food? Why are they easier to consume than whole foods, and how is a protein shake classified?
• [8:31] Cushioning your carbs, gut hormones and blood sugar.
• [13:54] How does anxiety play a negative role in the process? The protein struggle. 
• [18:57] Life choices after surgery, the Good Day checklist, and giving yourself grace.
• [25:22] Kayla wants the listener to know these takeaways.  

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• After bariatric surgery, slider foods digest quickly, impacting hunger hormones and causing blood sugar spikes. Pairing them with other nutrients helps maintain balance.
• After bariatric surgery, hunger hormones shift—ghrelin ("grr" for hunger) decreases, while leptin signals fullness. Understanding these changes helps manage appetite and satiety.
• Processed protein foods may meet bariatric patients' goals but often fail to sustain satiety. Whole proteins like chicken or tofu offer better digestion, hormonal balance, and lasting satisfaction.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website 
• Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-community
• Want to see bonus content? Head over to Patreon to get more and to support the podcast for as low as $5 per month! https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast 

GUEST RESOURCES:

Kayla Girgen - Instagram

Kayla Girgen - Website

Sugar and Strength Academy - Website

BIOGRAPHY: 

Kayla Girgen is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Personal Trainer determined to help women stop dieting, ditch all-or-nothing thinking, and develop healthy habits for life. With technology like CGM, Kayla shows women how to balance their blood sugar and maximize their tools for sustainable success after bariatric surgery.

ABOUT:

If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.

Are you feeling panicked about holiday eating derailing your bariatric journey? In this episode, we’re joined by Kelly Broadwater, who works closely with bariatric patients and shares her insights on navigating the season confidently. From understanding "BariMath," a tool that helps put indulgent meals into perspective, to tips on recognizing actual hunger cues and staying mindful, Kelly provides practical advice for enjoying holiday celebrations without guilt. Join us as we explore ways to stay on track, make thoughtful food choices, and let go of all-or-nothing thinking this holiday season. 

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:34] Kelly works with patients who have eating disorders
• [4:08] How does BariMath work
• [5:32] Stress can make you spiral out of control. Eating a few meals that are not on your plan over the holidays will not derail you. 
• [7:47] When you eat, focus on how the food will make you feel rather than labeling it as good or bad.
• [11:49] Learn to recognize the difference between hunger cues and other eating urges.
• [12:44] Kelly gives the listener advice on planning and mindful eating 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

•  “BariMath" is a helpful tool for bariatric patients to reduce anxiety about holiday eating. By calculating the number of eating opportunities (305) in November and December and comparing it to the handful of meals that might be off-plan (five or six), patients can see that these few indulgent meals are unlikely to derail their progress. This approach helps manage stress.
• Avoid the all-or-nothing thinking with your bariatric eating plan. If you go off-plan for a meal, it’s not a failure—simply focus on making your next meal bariatric-friendly.
• Avoid perfectionism and guilt in bariatric eating. Instead of focusing on strict rules or labeling foods as "good" or "bad," consider how certain foods will make you feel physically.
• During holiday meals, prioritize protein-forward choices and approach indulgent items mindfully. Instead of feeling pressured to eat something immediately, consider taking it home to enjoy on your terms. This approach allows flexibility, removes the urgency to indulge immediately, and supports thoughtful decision-making around food.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website 
• Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-community
• Want to see bonus content? Head over to Patreon to get more and to support the podcast for as low as $5 per month! https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast 

GUEST RESOURCES:

BariEDucated - Website

BariEducated - LinkedIn

BariEducated - Facebook

BIOGRAPHY: Kelly Broadwater

Kelly has provided preoperative assessments and postoperative counseling to metabolic and bariatric surgery patients for over 20 years. An expert on eating disorders in the bariatric population, she is passionate about educating others on this topic. She is the co-author of the book BariEDucated, published in 2023.

ABOUT:

If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty..

Do you feel like you might need revision surgery but carry shame, fearing it means you "failed" your original procedure? Dr. Melissa Bagloo of Advent Health joins us to bring insight and encouragement. She’ll walk us through what revisional bariatric surgery is, explaining that sometimes it's necessary—not due to any fault of the patient. Dr. Bagloo also shares how to know if you’re a candidate for a revision and why finding a surgeon you trust is vital. We share our journeys, which include revision surgery, and discuss why it’s essential to understand that obesity is a chronic disease requiring ongoing care. Plus, we explore the challenges of tracking bariatric data and the importance of choosing a highly skilled surgeon. Don’t miss this discussion about whether revisional surgery might be the right step for you.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [0:28] This episode is sponsored by Advent Health Central Florida.
• [1:17] Revision surgery is defined as a surgery that comes after your original surgery and is nothing to be ashamed of.
• [4:02] Jason and Natalie share their revision stories.
• [8:03] When patients are too high-risk, revision surgery is often necessary.
• [13:25] There are continual advancements in bariatric surgery.
• [21:09] Getting the proper patient/physician relationship and support from the BariNation Membership Community.
• [23:40] When would a patient know they would benefit from revisional surgery?
• [26:22] Jason and Natalie reveal when they knew they were candidates for revisional surgery.
• [37:10] What to look for in a surgeon.
• [42:49]  Advent Health offers self-pay options if insurance refuses to pay.
• [52:56] How to make connections to Advent Health and take advantage of Special Advent Health Discounted Monthly Member and Join the BariNation Membership community to support your journey.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Revisional bariatric surgery is sometimes a necessary step, often due to factors beyond the patient’s control. Both patients and providers need to see it as part of a continued journey, not a failure.
• Finding the right surgeon is essential: Patients considering revision surgery should seek a surgeon experienced in various bariatric procedures and with whom they feel comfortable.
• Obesity is a chronic disease. Obesity requires ongoing management and care, and addressing the emotional aspects, such as patient shame, can improve patient experiences and long-term results. The critical point is understanding and accepting that it is a chronic disease. 

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website 
• Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-community
• Want to see bonus content? Head over to Patreon to get more and to support the podcast for as low as $5 per month! https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast 

GUEST RESOURCES:

Advent Health - Website

Advent Health Joins BariNation to Support and Empower Bariatric Patients - News

Take Advantage of Special Advent Health Discounted Monthly Member

BIOGRAPHY: Melissa Bagloo, MD

Melissa Bagloo, MD, is a board-certified bariatric and general surgeon, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and a Fellow of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Dr. Bagloo joined AdventHealth after training and initiating her practice in the northeast. Upon receiving her medical degree from the University of Florida, College of Medicine in Gainesville, FL, Dr. Bagloo went on to complete a general surgery residency at New York University School of Medicine and a minimally invasive and bariatric surgery fellowship at Weill Medical College of Cornell University and Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons.

ABOUT:

If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.

Have you ever wondered if the pouch reset diet is a good idea or too extreme? In today’s episode, Dr. Edmund Chen joins us to break down the myths and misconceptions surrounding pouch reset diets in bariatric surgery. Dr. Chen dives into why quick-fix approaches can be dangerous and emphasizes the importance of building healthy eating habits and staying in touch with your healthcare team. Together, we discuss the goals you should focus on—like non-scale victories and realistic milestones—and why BMI alone doesn’t define your health. This conversation is all about redefining success and staying positive on your journey!

IN THIS EPISODE:

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

RESOURCES:

GUEST RESOURCES:

Texas Center For Surgery - Website

TCBAS BariNation Membership - Website

Dr. Edmund Chen - LinkedIn

BIOGRAPHY: Dr. Edmund Chen, MD

Dr. Chen is a published researcher, national presenter, and Master da Vinci bariatric surgeon. He first became interested in bariatric surgery while doing metabolic research at the National Institutes of Health in Washington, D.C., in 2008.

Dr. Chen graduated with honors from Johns Hopkins University with a biology degree and earned his medical degree from Cornell University. He then devoted two years to research at Northwestern University and began his general surgical training at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago. He graduated from the Duke University Fellowship program for Minimally Invasive Surgery.

Dr. Chen is dedicated to performing safe, effective surgery that is individualized for each patient. He is known for delivering the highest level of care with compassion, dignity, and respect for the patient and their family.

He exclusively uses the state-of-the-art da Vinci surgical system to optimize patient outcomes. He performs ultra minimally invasive procedures, including gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, LAP-BAND, duodenal switch, omega loop, mini gastric bypass, SADI-S, bariatric revisions, cholecystectomy, appendectomy, and hernia repairs.

ABOUT:

If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.