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Have you ever struggled with the balance between savoring life's journey and maintaining your health on the road? That's the tightrope we walk in our latest episode, where we share tales from our medical conference adventure in Cleveland, and the attendant challenges of eating post-bariatric surgery. Our conversation takes flight with the introduction of Bari Buddy, the AI assistant that's revolutionizing post-op life with reliable, guideline-based advice, a creation honed through over a hundred hours of meticulous programming. Tammie dishes out her wisdom on navigating airports and staying true to dietary needs without sacrificing the joy of travel.

When the road takes a turn towards the procedural, we've got you covered with the nitty-gritty of colonoscopy prep for the bariatric patient. It’s a must-listen for anyone facing the daunting prospect of a colonoscopy, offering practical tips on a liquid diet and debunking the 'pouch reset' myth with an emphasis on a holistic approach to weight regain. Through Tammie’s lens, each patient's journey is underscored as unique and deserving of tailored care, sidestepping the notion that additional surgery is the go-to solution for complex issues related to weight.

Closing out, our discussion pivots to challenge the healthcare industry's fixation on BMI and weight. We advocate for a focus on overall wellness and metabolic health, pondering the conundrum faced by patients and doctors alike when cultural standards and medical requirements clash. From the diversity in athletic physiques to the comparative recovery paths of different bariatric surgeries, we shed light on the multifaceted world of weight management. This episode is an exploration of the many layers of obesity and body standards, offering insights and empathy to anyone affected by these pervasive issues. Join us for a heart-to-heart on the transformative potential of bariatric surgery, set against the intricate tapestry of societal, genetic, and psychological factors that shape our health and self-image.

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Unlock the secrets to successfully navigating revisional bariatric surgery as we invite Dr. Francesca Dimou, a pioneering Bariatric and General Surgeon with a talent for robotic procedures, to illuminate the complexities of this life-altering medical journey. Transitioning into a new chapter at USF and Tampa General Hospital, Dr. Francesca Dimou outlines the essential steps she takes in the intricate dance of preoperative evaluations. As she shares her algorithm and stresses the importance of diagnostic tests, you'll discover the empathy and expertise needed to set patients up for triumph in the face of obesity's challenges.

As we wade through the murky waters of insurance coverage for bariatric surgery, Dr. Francesca Dimou and her team of patient navigators emerge as beacons of hope, guiding patients through the labyrinth of policies and procedures. It's not just about the physical transformation; the conversation turns to the emotional odyssey patients embark upon, confronting societal misunderstandings and internal battles. With Dr. Francesca Dimou's insight, we're reminded that obesity is a chronic disease demanding a cocktail of surgical intervention, medication, and lifestyle changes, all delivered with a generous dose of compassion.

Finally, we converse on the synergistic power of a multi-generational surgical team, where experience meets innovation, and colleagues become confidants. Dr. Francesca Dimou reflects on her own professional voyage, which took an unexpected detour from anti-reflux to bariatric surgery, a field ripe with the potential for impactful change. She emphasizes the mentorship that sculpted her career and offers pearls of wisdom to young surgeons: Embrace the strength of a united team, and you'll not only excel in your field but also ensure the highest standard of care for those you serve.

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Ever been caught off-guard by the silent but deadly post-op enemy, constipation? We're cracking open a dialogue on this hushed subject, revealing why that first post-surgery toot matters more than you might think! Join us as we dissect the ins and outs of keeping things moving smoothly after surgery. With a blend of our own tales from the trenches and expert clinical advice, we've revamped the typical pre- and post-op playbook to tackle constipation head-on, discussing everything from the mysterious ileus to the impact of stress on your gut.

Sip along with us as we spill the beans on staying hydrated with more than just plain old H2O—think flavored waters, shakes, and high-water content snacks. We're serving up a full course of wisdom on the crucial balance of proteins, fats, and carbs, and why your Keto diet might be backing you up, literally. Our chat meanders through the interplay of a varied diet, the importance of sleep, and even how your meds could be messing with your movements. So, grab your favorite drink, and let's get to the bottom of what keeps your digestive tract on track!

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