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Ever felt a chill after a hearty salad, or craved Brussels sprouts wrapped in bacon? That's the kind of unexpected shift in appetite and body temperature regulation Maria and Tammie are talking about on this episode, where they peel back the curtain on the life-altering journey of bariatric surgery. Their conversation serves up the raw, unspoken truths about post-op life, including why Tammie's water mug is now her most treasured accessory. Their narrative stitches together the fabric of lifestyle readjustments, unwrapping the delicate dance between treating oneself and adhering to a new health-conscious existence.

Social dynamics take a front seat as Tammie navigates the post-bariatric world, from the anxiety of standing out in a crowd to the emotional tumult of weight-loss compliments. Maria and Tammie dissect the influence of cultural and familial dining customs that clash with the new reality of smaller portions and the tactics to manage the ensuing social tension. And just when you think you've got it all figured out, they bring to light the post-operative surprises like gallbladder woes, urging open dialogue with your surgeon, and confronting the emotional impact of significant weight loss. Tune in for an honest, heartfelt exploration of the post-bariatric life that goes beyond the scale.

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When a fellow physician's offhand remark about obesity struck a nerve, it brought home the reality of the insensitivity that pervades our medical community. It's discussions like this that Tammie and Maria tackle head-on, breaking down the complexities of weight management far beyond the oversimplified calories in versus calories out. Their conversation sheds light on the multifaceted influences of genetics, metabolism, and lifestyle choices on an individual's weight, underscoring the urgent need for a more educated approach within healthcare.

As they peel back the curtain on bariatric care, they're confronted with the stark realities of accessibility, especially in rural areas. The advancements in surgery and evolving outpatient policies come into sharp focus alongside the role of primary care physicians in the referral process. Maria gets personal, sharing her own experience with binge eating disorder, and together, Tammie and Maria expose how few eligible patients receive the care they need. They also explore how telemedicine, a beacon of hope post-COVID, could revolutionize follow-up care and bridge the healthcare divide.

The finale of the episode takes on a proactive stance, stressing the significance of early intervention in weight management. They emphasize the value of a multi-disciplinary approach and the necessity for primary care doctors to be well-versed in weight management. Wrapping up, they extend an open invitation to our listeners to connect with them on social media for further discussions and insights. With Tammie's invaluable perspective, they hope their candid dialogue resonates with listeners and sparks a much-needed transformation in how the healthcare field addresses weight management.

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Discover the transformative power of bariatric surgery with Cleveland Clinic's Dr. Sara Monfared in a conversation that could forever alter your view of obesity and its treatment. Dr. Monfared passionately articulates her path to specializing in this life-changing field, emphasizing the urgent need to reframe obesity as a chronic disease rather than a personal failing. By intertwining her personal motivations with professional expertise, she illuminates how bariatric surgery isn't just about weight loss—it's a proactive strike against cancer, heart disease, and more. Our talk sheds light on the imperative for medical care to evolve, placing preventive obesity treatments alongside routine health screenings.

Peek behind the curtain of bariatric surgery with us as we scrutinize the intricacies of various procedures tailored to individual needs. Dr. Monfared walks us through the cutting-edge, such as endoscopic outlet reduction, while addressing the challenges post-surgery patients face, such as weight regain. Her insights aim to dispel the stigma that shrouds this topic, reinforcing the message that setbacks are not reflective of personal failings but rather a call for innovative, minimally invasive solutions that cater to each unique journey.

As our episode reaches its conclusion, we rally for the cause of broadening bariatric surgery access and delve into the necessity of persistent research to secure insurance coverage for state-of-the-art treatments. Dr. Monfared's analysis of the shifting perceptions around endoscopic sleeve procedures, along with the evolution of gastric bypass surgery, offers a beacon of hope for those navigating these waters. We wrap up by inviting listeners to join our vibrant online community, where shared experiences and knowledge merge to support and enlighten anyone touched by the topic of bariatric surgery.

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