In this episode, we cover a wide range of topics related to diabetes, weight loss, and bariatric surgery. We kick things off by talking about the underlying cause of diabetes. Most people believe that diabetes is caused by an over consumption of carbohydrates. But that’s incorrect. In fact, studies show that the consumption of animal fat is what causes your insulin receptors to become less sensitive.

Next, we answer the question, “How long should you be on the Metabolic Reset Diet?” It’s a question we get asked daily and, as usual, the answer isn’t universal. Rather, it’s about determining what things you need to change in order to make the Metabolic Reset Diet work for you long-term. We offer practical advice on how to do this.

Next, we tackle weight regain after bariatric surgery, especially for those who’ve had a sleeve gastrectomy (VSG). Almost half of patients deal with weight regain, and it’s not just about eating too much or slacking on exercise. The conversation dives into why this happens, focusing on hormonal changes and the body's natural resistance to weight loss. We also talk about how combining surgery with medications like GLP-1s can help manage weight over the long term.

Finally, we share some tips on how to minimize hair loss after bariatric surgery. It’s a common concern for most patients. We cover practical ways to reduce hair thinning, including preventative measures like proper nutrition, key supplements, and medication to build reserves that assist in keeping as much of your hair as possible after surgery.

In this episode, Laura, a previous guest on the podcast, returns to share more about her successful peer support group for those who have undergone weight loss surgery. The conversation revolves around the value of community and how it provides a sense of connection and understanding for people on their weight loss journeys. Laura's group, lovingly nicknamed "Laura's Losers," meets regularly to offer emotional support, share personal stories, and discuss tips for staying on track.

Laura emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming, living-room-style atmosphere where participants can openly discuss their struggles, especially around topics like post-op stalls and feeling isolated. She shares her own experiences, including her recent vacation where she was able to indulge mindfully while still staying true to her health goals. This helps alleviate some of the common fears that new patients have about life after surgery.

The conversation touches on the emotional toll of weight loss, particularly the societal pressure and feelings of guilt that many people face. Laura, along with the hosts, stress the importance of self-compassion and avoiding the trap of perfectionism. They remind listeners that there is no "finish line" when it comes to health, and that setbacks are a normal part of the journey.

The episode ends with a discussion of future plans for the group, including in-person meetups and continued support, underscoring the ongoing importance of community in long-term weight loss success.

In this discussion about bariatric meal prep and bariatric meal plans, Kristen Willard shares valuable tips for both patients who have undergone bariatric surgery and patients who are using a non-surgical approach to weight loss. The main focus is simplicity and practicality in creating meal plans. Kristen suggests starting meal prep with the meal you find most difficult, like breakfast, rather than feeling overwhelmed by prepping every meal at once. This gradual approach helps build confidence.

When it comes to bariatric meal prep, Kristen advocates for a flexible, ingredient-focused method. For example, cooking chicken in a slow cooker with salsa can serve as multiple meals, like in a lettuce wrap or a salad. This ensures variety without the need for extensive prep time. Additionally, Kristen emphasizes the importance of flavor to keep meals interesting by changing spices, sauces or dressings, preventing boredom from repetitive meals.

She also discusses strategies for getting kids to eat healthy. Kristen highlights the value of involving children in meal planning and meal prep, making it a family effort. By giving them choices between healthy options, kids feel more empowered and are more likely to enjoy the meals. She encourages parents to lead by example, showing that healthy eating can be enjoyable for everyone in the household.

Finally, Kristen recommends useful kitchen gadgets like an Instant Pot and a vegetable chopper to save time in prepping ingredients, making the process more manageable. Kristen's philosophy is that meal prep doesn’t have to be complicated; focusing on simple steps can lead to sustainable habits.