Hair loss after bariatric surgery, or while on GLP-1 medications, is a common issue among patients, but it doesn't have to be permanent. In this BariNation episode, we welcome back Dr. Edmund Chen to discuss why hair loss after bariatric surgery occurs and what you can do about it. Dr. Chen explains that post-bariatric surgery hair thinning happens due to the stress the body is subject to from surgery and rapid weight loss. The good news? With the right approach—including increased protein for hair growth, targeted vitamins like biotin and zinc, and getting in movement for increased blood flow—you can minimize loss and promote healthy regrowth. April shares her personal journey with hair loss and the strategies that helped her see real results. Whether you're pre-op or already experiencing thinning, this episode offers practical, expert-backed solutions.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:   

✅ Why bariatric patients experience hair loss and how metabolic surgery side effects, like caloric deficit and body stress, trigger hair loss

✅ The essential role of protein for hair growth and how increasing your daily intake can help prevent post-bariatric surgery hair thinning and support regrowth

✅ Which bariatric vitamin regimen works best, including biotin and zinc supplements, collagen for hair health, and hair, skin, and nails vitamins to promote stronger hair

✅ How exercise and hair growth are connected through increased blood flow to the scalp, plus proven hair regrowth treatment options for hair regrowth

Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.

TIMESTAMPS:  

00:00 Why do bariatric patients experience hair loss after weight loss surgery 

03:30 Top three solutions: protein for hair growth, vitamins, and brands that support hair growth 

04:30 Importance of bariatric vitamin regimen, including biotin and zinc supplements, and collagen for hair health

07:39 How exercise and hair growth connect through increased scalp blood flow

09:02 Practical tips: massage scalp, focus on basics before investing in expensive hair regrowth treatment

10:33 Dr. Chen reassures patients that hair loss is temporary and regrowth happens after reaching their lowest weight

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  

💎 Bariatric hair loss is temporary and typically stops once you reach your lowest weight—it's a sign your body is prioritizing weight loss surgery recovery and metabolic changes over hair growth

💎 Increase your protein for hair growth intake beyond typical goals (aim for 80-90 grams daily if experiencing thinning) since hair is made of protein and requires adequate nutrition to regenerate

💎 Exercise and hair growth are directly connected—regular movement increases blood flow and oxygen to hair follicles on your scalp, creating healthier conditions for regrowth

ABOUT THE GUEST: 

Dr. Edmund Chen, a skilled bariatric surgeon, graduated with honors from Johns Hopkins University and earned his medical degree from Cornell University. After researching metabolism at the National Institutes of Health and training at Northwestern and Duke, he specializes in ultra-minimally invasive bariatric surgery using the da Vinci system, including gastric sleeve, bypass, and revisions. Known for compassionate, patient-focused care, he optimizes outcomes for bariatric patients at his Dallas practice the Texas Center for Bariatric and Advanced Surgery, where he partners with Dr. Joe Cribbins.

Edmund Chen, MD - LinkedIn

RESOURCES MENTIONED: 

Hair Loss and Exercise Study

BariNation Website

BariNation - Email

BariNation - Partnership Monthly Membership   

BariNation’s How to Find an Obesity Specialist Guide

Have you ever felt judged or misunderstood because of your weight or health struggles? Shame and stigma often surround the conversation about obesity and treatments like bariatric surgery.

In this revisited episode of the BariNation podcast, we welcome Dr. Ann Rogers, past Bariatric Surgeon and President of ASMBS (American Society of Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery), who sheds light on the stigma surrounding bariatric surgery and how it addresses more than just weight loss. Dr. Rogers explains how bariatric surgery can correct serious health problems like diabetes, sleep apnea, and fatty liver disease, ultimately improving a person's quality of life. We also dive into the resistance to bariatric surgery, the changes needed in healthcare, and how medications and mindfulness can play a role in weight management. Dr. Rogers also shares valuable advice to help break the cycle of shame and self-doubt.

We need your help to keep the BariNation Podcast in production. Your one-time or recurring donations help us ensure this free support remains open to everyone. Click Drive To Thrive - Donation to learn more and give. THANK YOU for your support!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [00:42] What drew Dr. Rogers to bariatric surgery and improving the quality of life
• [6:58] Why do people resist bariatric surgery? Is it shame and stigma
• [15:36] Changes general practitioners need to make in the insurance industry
• [25:01] Medications to lose weight and why obesity wants to come back
• [34:55] The value of mindfulness and the capacity to live life differently
• [40:23] Discussion that Medicare and Medicaid will have access to GLP1 and forecasting for 2025 and Dr. Rogers's parting advice
• [45:54] Believing the lies we tell ourselves and hear more in the BariNation Support Community

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Bariatric Surgery Addresses More Than Weight Loss. While bariatric surgery visibly impacts weight, its actual value lies in addressing underlying health conditions like diabetes, sleep apnea, and fatty liver disease, significantly improving quality of life. However, the stigma surrounding obesity and bariatric surgery often deters patients from seeking help. 
• Obesity is a complex, chronic disease that is influenced by genetics, biology, and environmental factors. It's not just a matter of personal choice or willpower; blaming individuals for their condition is unjust and counterproductive.
• Bariatric surgery and related treatments can offer substantial benefits, and despite challenges like weight regain or access to medications, patients should remember that they are worthy of care and support.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website 
• Patient Resource Link

GUEST BIO: 

Dr. Rogers is the Director of the Penn State Health Surgical Weight Loss Programs. 

Dr. Rogers is past President of the American Society of Metabolic & Bariatric Surgeons (ASMBS).

ASMBS MISSION: To enhance the well-being of individuals affected by obesity and associated illnesses through the progression of metabolic and bariatric surgical techniques and other medical interventions.

Bariatric support programs are key to long-term success. In this episode of BariNation, Kellie Armstrong, RN and Integrated Health Director at ASMBS, shares insights from her 20-year journey as both a bariatric patient and healthcare leader. She discusses the evolution of obesity medicine, the power of multidisciplinary care, and the three C’s of success—continuous, conversation, and connection—highlighting why strong patient-provider communication changes everything.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:   

How bariatric support programs have evolved from isolated surgical procedures to comprehensive integrated health teams that provide wraparound bariatric care throughout your entire journey

Why long-term weight loss success depends on continuous patient-provider communication and staying connected to your bariatric program accreditation-certified care team beyond the first year post-op

What questions to ask when shopping for a metabolic bariatric surgery program, including how to find obesity medicine specialists who treat obesity as the chronic disease of obesity it truly is

The importance of post-op support groups and bariatric patient education in maintaining your results, plus why bariatric surgery follow-up should never stop, even 20 years after your procedure

Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.

TIMESTAMPS:  

00:00 Introduction 

06:35 Kellie’s first bariatric surgery patient in 2000, and how nursing education has evolved in obesity medicine

13:09 The intersection of professional and patient life: merging your bariatric identity with everyday life

19:27 Why bariatric support programs are not a quick fix and the importance of using tools from your toolbox

22:27 Creating patient-provider communication pathways and keeping integrated health teams accessible to patients

26:59 The three C's framework: continuous, conversation and connection for long-term weight loss success

30:22 How ASMBS accreditation programs share best practices and collaborate across bariatric care coordination teams

40:53 The future of obesity medicine and eliminating stigma in disease of obesity treatment

46:31 Discussion of shopping for the right bariatric program, asking for bariatric surgery follow-up resources and contacting your insurance provider

50:30 Don't seek medical advice on social media: the importance of professional bariatric patient education

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  

Bariatric surgery is just one tool, Long-term success requires lifelong, integrated care including nutrition, behavioral health, medication, and lifestyle support.

Choose programs that stay with you. Find a bariatric team offering real relationships and full support, or ask to be connected with obesity medicine specialists.

Your bariatric journey becomes life. Stay connected through post-op groups, annual follow-ups, and peers who understand your experience for years to come.

Bariatric care has evolved — from open surgeries and long hospital stays to minimally invasive procedures and comprehensive, team-based obesity treatment.

ABOUT THE GUEST: 

Kellie Armstrong's RN career began at Rhode Island Hospital in 1998, progressing from staff nurse to Bariatric Surgery Service Line Manager when Brown University Health merged its bariatric programs in 2012. In 2007, she became Rhode Island's first Certified Bariatric Nurse (CBN) and has since presented at national venues, co-authored articles in Bariatric Times, and served as co-chair of the 2024 Integrated Health Obesity Summit. Her dedication earned her the 2021 Hurvitz Quality Award for revamping the bariatric support program during COVID-19, the 2022 Distinguished CBN award, and inclusion in the first FASMBS-IH Leadership Academy cohort in 2024. Kellie is currently the ASMBS Integrated Health Section President and brings a unique perspective as both a healthcare leader and a bariatric surgery patient since 2005. 

RESOURCES MENTIONED: 

BariNation Website

BariNation - Email

BariNation - Partnership Monthly Membership   

BariNation’s How to Find an Obesity Specialist Guide

No One Left Behind: Dr. Richard Peterson

https://www.facebook.com/kellie.fredette.armstrong

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellie-armstrong-msn-rn-fasmbs-ih-cbn-4766501b/

Website: https://www.brownhealth.org/centers-services/center-medical-and-surgical-weight-loss

In this revisited episode, we look back at the theme for 2025, 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.

Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:42] The theme for Bari-Nation 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

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 support groups provide an essential community for weight loss surgery patients. Today, we welcome Jonathan Cleveland to the BariNation Podcast to discuss his transformative experience just two months after VSG surgery. Jonathan shares how the BariNation community helped him navigate post-op bariatric surgery recovery challenges, from managing protein intake to celebrating non-scale victories. He reveals how the "space and grace" motto became his daily mantra when struggling with post-op bariatric life expectations. Natalie Tierney and Herb Lentz, who host the beginner bariatric meetup groups in the BariNation Community, co-host the episode to advocate for the power of peer connection versus unreliable internet searches and Facebook groups.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:   

✅ How bariatric support groups provide emotional validation and practical advice that Facebook groups and internet searches cannot match

✅ Why connecting with the bariatric community with Natalie Tierney in BariNation helps navigate post-op bariatric life challenges like protein and hydration goals

✅ The "space and grace" approach to managing frustration during weight loss surgery recovery and celebrating non-scale victories

✅ How beginner bariatric patient support meetups create a safe space for pre-op and newly post-op patients to share experiences

✅ Why joining trusted virtual support groupsand meetups in BariNation  leads to better outcomes than self-diagnosing symptoms through unreliable online sources

Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.

TIMESTAMPS:  

00:00 Natalie Tierney opens the episode and invites Jonathan Cleveland and Herb Lentz to introduce themselves as members of the BariNation membership community. Jonathan is a two-month post-op bariatric patient, and Herb hosts beginner bariatric meetups

02:36 How bariatric support groups provide a community with like-minded individuals who understand the unique struggles and non-scale victories

06:05 The "space and grace" motto helps manage frustration with protein intake after surgery and hydration goals during weight loss surgery recovery, and other tips

10:17 Overcoming fear of joining bariatric community online meetups as a newbie and finding welcoming peer support

12:32 Jonathan shares why bariatric support groups provide trusted advice versus going down rabbit holes on Facebook groups and unreliable internet sources

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  

💎Bariatric support groups offer understanding that friends and family cannot provide, creating a space where members celebrate non-scale victories like not needing seatbelt extenders with genuine excitement

💎 The "space and grace" mantra helps manage early post-op bariatric life frustrations when struggling to meet protein intake after surgery and hydration targets during weight loss surgery recovery

💎 Virtual support groups provide vetted advice from real bariatric patient support members and medical professionals, preventing harmful self-diagnosis from unreliable Facebook groups and internet rabbit holes

💎 Beginner bariatric community online meetups create cohorts where pre-op and newly post-op patients practice curiosity, ask questions without judgment, and build family-like connections

ABOUT THE GUEST: 

Jonathan Cleveland currently resides in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas. He is 6 months post-op from VSG surgery by Dr. Edmund Chen of the Texas Center for Bariatrics & Advanced Surgery. He has lost a total of 115 pounds. He loves to travel across the world in his free time. 

RESOURCES MENTIONED: 

BariNation Website

BariNation - Email

BariNation - Partnership Monthly Membership   

BariNation’s How to Find an Obesity Specialist Guide

In this revisited episode, 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!

Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 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 

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.

What are the advantages of a bariatric surgery care team? Today, you will discover the vital role of an integrated health team in bariatric surgery. On this episode of the BariNation podcast, we are thrilled to interview Heidi Bednarchuk, exploring why a cohesive bariatric surgery care team is key to patient care success. From pre-op preparation to post-op support, discover how to choose a team that supports your obesity treatment journey and enhances quality of life. Heidi shares insights on building an integrated health team for bariatric surgery, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration for long-term wellness.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:   

The critical role of a bariatric surgery care team in ensuring successful patient care throughout the obesity treatment journey

How an integrated health team collaborates to provide comprehensive pre-op preparation and post-op support for lasting results

Why prioritizing quality of life is key to choosing the right bariatric surgery care team for your needs

Practical questions to ask to identify an integrated health team for bariatric surgery that supports long-term wellness

The importance of patient care advocacy and how a cohesive team enhances obesity treatment outcomes

Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.

TIMESTAMPS: 

• 02:50 Heidi’s role in integrated health team leadership for patient care and the vital role of the bariatric surgery care team beyond pre-op preparation and post-op support
• 12:28 Heidi explains why evaluating the bariatric surgery care team is crucial for quality of life in the obesity treatment journey, such as roles like the bariatric nurse
• 14:33 Heidi uses a fruit smoothie analogy to describe a cohesive, integrated health team for bariatric surgery, enhancing quality of life
• 25:05 Advice on questions to identify an effective bariatric surgery care team, focusing on interdisciplinary team communication
• 32:24 Heidi discusses studies showing patient care priorities like nutrition and mental health in post-op support, often overlooked
• 42:24 Discussion of the stigma, eliminating old mindsets and communicating with care teams who are not integrated                                                                                                                      
• 47:30 Emphasis on staying connected with the bariatric surgery care team to avoid post-surgical support drop-off for obesity treatment

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  

An integrated health team for bariatric surgery collaborates to enhance quality of life and address challenges in obesity treatment.

Asking the right questions helps identify an effective bariatric surgery care team focused on interdisciplinary team communication.

Patients must advocate for their own patient care needs to build a bariatric surgery care team that supports long-term success in obesity treatment.

ABOUT THE GUEST: 

Heidi Bednarchuk, APRN, CNS, CBN, FASMBS-IH, is a Clinical Nurse Specialist, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse at the Bariatric and Comprehensive Weight Loss Program at the Mayo Clinic.  She has worked in metabolic and bariatric surgery since 2012 and genuinely loves her work. She is committed to supporting individuals affected by obesity and to highlighting the vital role Integrated Health plays in delivering lasting, patient-centered outcomes. Heidi is also the Immediate Past President of the Integrated Health Leadership Council at ASMBS (American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons), having held multiple leadership and committee roles over the past several years.

Heidi Bednarchuk - LinkedIn

Patients’ experiences of life after bariatric surgery and follow-up care study

A Comparison of Health Professionals' and Patients' Views of the Importance of Outcomes of Bariatric Surgery Study

A systematic scoping review of multidisciplinary team working in surgical services: the need for bariatric surgery research

RESOURCES MENTIONED: 

TREO Foundation - The Walk

TREO Walk Discounted BariNation Membership 

BariNation - Partnership Monthly Membership   

BariNation’s How to Find an Obesity Specialist Guide

Have you ever felt stuck in your bariatric journey, unsure what to do next?  Are you seeking a supportive community that understands life's challenges after surgery? If these questions resonate with you, you won’t want to miss this episode of the BariNation podcast.

In this re-release episode, we dive deep into the real experiences and challenges of bariatric patients, offering tools and insights to help you on your journey. In this episode, we’re exploring two pivotal concepts—"space and grace" and "pause and pivot"—that are integral to the BariNation support community for bariatric patients. These tools are designed to assist members in navigating their weight loss journey with greater ease and understanding.

Whether you're just starting your weight loss journey or you've been living with bariatric surgery for years, the BariNation community is designed to provide the support and motivation you need to stay on track. Tune into this conversation and community that will make you feel understood, supported, and empowered on your path. 

Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:26] BariNation is here for your bariatric surgery journey
• [3:20] BariNation offers Space and Grace
• [7:12] When facing a challenge, Pause and Pivot
• [11:11] The BariNation community is here to support you

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Space and Grace – This concept emphasizes the importance of removing yourself from triggering situations (physically or mentally) and giving yourself understanding rather than harsh self-criticism. It’s about creating space to manage emotions and extend yourself grace without making excuses.
• Pause and Pivot – When facing challenges or hitting a plateau in the bariatric journey, taking a moment to pause, reflect, and reassess your direction can help you make intentional and sustainable changes. This prevents reactive decision-making and supports long-term success.
• Community and Support Matter – The BariNation podcast and support community provide a space for bariatric patients at all stages to connect, share experiences, and seek guidance from professionals and peers. Engaging with others on a similar journey can provide essential encouragement and perspective.

BariNation Website

Have you had or are you preparing for bariatric surgery or starting GLP1’s and wondering how to avoid nutritional deficiencies? Do you know what Wernicke’s encephalopathy is and how easy it is to prevent and treat it? Tune in to this episode of the BariNation podcast to uncover critical insights! 

We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Emma Patterson, a renowned expert in bariatric surgery with 25 years of experience. Dr. Patterson shares her research on thiamine deficiency (aka vitamin B1), offering practical advice on preventive care and thiamine supplementation to help safeguard your health before and after metabolic and bariatric surgery (aka weight loss surgery.) Don’t miss her expert tips on vitamin supplementation to ensure a successful bariatric journey!

Don’t forget! BariNation is proud to be this year's National Sponsor of TREO Foundation's The Walk: Stomp the Stigma. Sign up to join BariNation’s virtual team for the September 27th, 2025, The Walk: Stomp the Stigma, which raises awareness and access to care. There are also 12 in person walks happening and more being organized. To find a walk near you, or set one up visit the TREO Foundation website linked below.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (03:15) Dr. Emma Patterson shares her 25-year focus on bariatric surgery
• (10:45) Wernicke’s encephalopathy is an acute neuropsychiatric syndrome caused by thiamine deficiency
• (17:00) Surgeons should monitor nutrition to prevent thiamine deficiency and what are the classic symptoms 
• (28:21) Dr. Patterson notes the low risk of thiamine supplementation, encouraging bariatric patients to discuss it with their surgeons 
• (35:44) Wernicke’s encephalopathy typically peaks two to three months post-bariatric surgery, but can occur later if nutritional deficiencies persist
• (43:59) Dr. Patterson gives advice to bariatric patients starting GLP-1 medications 
• (48:30) Discussion of the importance of  vitamin B1’s role in, cell maintenance, and nerve function

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• B1/Thiamine deficiency can lead to Wernicke’s encephalopathy, a severe neurological condition, particularly in bariatric patients post-surgery due to reduced nutrient intake.
• Preventive care through B1/Thiamine supplementation (100 mg daily) starting two weeks before bariatric surgery and continuing for three months post-op is critical to avoid complications.
• Patient education on bariatric nutrition, especially the importance of vitamin B1, empowers individuals to advocate for their health and prevent malnutrition risks.

RESOURCES:

• Join BariNation on the TREO Walk
• TREO Foundation - The Walk
• TREO Walk Discounted BariNation Membership  
• BariNation x TREO Landing Page
• TREO Fall In-Person Walks
• BariNation Website
• BariNation - Email
• BariNation - Partnership Monthly Membership   
• BariNation’s How to Find an Obesity Specialist Guide
• Dr. Patterson’s website 

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Emma Patterson, a board-certified bariatric surgeon, has over 25 years of experience, performing 6,000+ bariatric surgery procedures like Sleeve Gastrectomy and Gastric Bypass after her fellowship at Mount Sinai Hospital. As the Northwest’s first laparoscopic bariatric surgery specialist and Bariatric Medical Director at Wilshire Surgery Center (MBSAQIP Center of Excellence), she’s authored 50+ peer-reviewed papers, including in NEJM, and contributed to NIH’s LABS consortium. Renowned for her expertise in thiamine deficiency and Wernicke’s encephalopathy, she advocates for bariatric nutrition and serves as an expert witness in medical advocacy (Practical Gastro, YouTube).

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 searching for a bariatric surgeon who truly understands the importance of lifelong support? Do you want to know how inclusive healthcare can transform your bariatric journey? Then you don’t want to miss this conversation because it may completely change how you think about your options for obesity care.

Before we dive in, we’re thrilled to share that BariNation is a national sponsor of the TREO Foundation’s Walk to Stomp the Stigma which is happening in 10+ cities throughout the fall. The Virtual Walk is on Saturday, September 27th and we invite you to join our BariNation team. Together, we’ll shine a light on the importance of better access to obesity care for all. Click the link in the show notes to join our BariNation team and walk with us virtually—you don’t want to miss the chance to be part of this movement.

In today’s episode, we sat down with Dr. Maria Brown, a fellowship-trained bariatric surgeon in Arizona who specializes in robotic bariatric surgery and leads a comprehensive program designed to give patients everything they need in one place. Her practice offers medical weight loss, nutrition support, fitness guidance, and a line of vitamins to ensure no piece of the puzzle is missing. Dr. Brown is deeply committed to building safe healthcare spaces where every patient—regardless of their background, identity, or financial status—feels seen, heard, and supported.

Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening
• (00:29) Join BariNation for the TREO Foundation’s Walk to Stomp the Stigma on Saturday, September 27th
• (01:55) Dr. Brown is a bariatric surgeon specializing in robotic bariatric surgery
• (05:17) Discussion of inclusive healthcare, Medicare, Medicaid, self-pay, and ensuring obesity care for all patients
• (05:52) Brown’s practice is a safe space for every patient, including the LGBTQIA 
• (08:34) Shop around for the right bariatric surgeon and build a lifelong relationship of trust 
• (10:40) Obesity care doesn’t end with surgery—it’s a chronic disease requiring long-term support
• (11:52) Patients deserve to feel seen and heard

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Building a strong BariNation Community and long-term patient support system is just as important as the medical side of bariatric surgery, helping patients succeed beyond the operating room.
• Dr. Maria Brown emphasizes inclusive healthcare and safe healthcare spaces, ensuring that every patient—regardless of race, gender, or sexuality—has access to compassionate obesity care.
• A holistic approach that combines robotic bariatric surgery, medical weight loss, nutrition support, fitness guidance, and specialized bariatric vitamins creates a comprehensive path to better outcomes on the lifelong bariatric journey.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website
• BariNation - Email
• BariNation Partner and Practice Monthly Membership   
• BariNation’s How to Find an Obesity Specialist Guide
• TREO Foundation - The Walk
• Join BariNation on the TREO Walk
• Dr. Brown - Website
• AZ Weight Loss Surgery

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Maria Brown, a Cuban American from Upstate New York, studied Spanish in Mexico and earned a B.S. in Biology from Siena College, graduating magna cum laude. She gained healthcare experience in Belize, worked at Pfizer, and trained at St. George’s University School of Medicine, with rotations in England, Grenada, and New York City. After completing her General Surgery Residency and a fellowship in Minimally Invasive Robotic, Advanced GI, and Bariatric Surgery, she moved to Phoenix, Arizona, where she is owner and director of Valley Bariatric Medical & Weight Loss Center and a national proctor for Intuitive’s da Vinci Robotic Systems. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, camping, and paddleboarding with her two Huskies.

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.