The Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast

Episode 24 of The Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast is titled, Zepbound to happen: More Drug Shortages. The title comes from our Economics of Obesity segment where we discuss the Zepbound shortages and offer strategies that you can use to ride out the shortage. In our In the news segment, we discuss an article from the New York Times titled, The Miracle Weight-Loss Drug Is Also a Major Budgetary Threat. In the United States, we pay more for medication than any other country in the world - often 3-4 times more. So, what can we do to bring those prices down? Tune in to find out! In our Patient Story, we talk to Janet who started gaining weight after pregnancy. She lost well over 100 pounds on Mounjaro and is currently using a creative dosing strategy to save money during maintenance. For the first few months after surgery and while taking a GLP-1 medications, you might not feel like eating but your body still needs fuel. So, in our Nutrition segment, Zoe offers advice about what to do when you just don’t feel like eating. Finally, we answer 3 of our listeners' questions including, how to transition from weight loss to weight maintenance, why does a revision carry more risk, and how to keep your set point lower while on weight gaining medications.

Episode 23 of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast is titled, Big Food, Big Pharma, Big Lies. The title comes from our In the News segment where we discuss an article we found on Yahoo that talks about how big food makers like General Mills are paying social media dietitian influencers to push their products as part of the anti-diet movement. They are actually telling people that products like Coco Puffs are part of a healthy lifestyle! Insane! In our Patient Story, we talk to Lupe who came to us on a recommendation from her Primary Care Physician. She ended up having a Gastric Bypass and needed GLP-1 medications to increase her weight loss. She is now helping her whole family make positive changes in their lives. In our Nutrition segment we talk about the single most important strategy to elicit support from your friends and family on your weight loss journey. In our Economics of Obesity segment we dive into how the gaming of the drug patent process played a role in the generic drug release timeline for Ozempic. It’s Part 2 of our two-part series on drug patents and in it we’ll share when Ozempic will be eligible for a generic version. Finally, we answer 3 questions from our listeners including, serving size after surgery, compounding pharmacies, and what comes after the Metabolic Reset Diet.

Episode 22 of The Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast is titled, Hot Diggity Dog - Costco’s New Weight Loss Program. The name comes from our In the News segment where we talk about how Costco is entering the medical weight loss space. We dive into what this means for GLP-1 access and whether or not patients benefit. In our Patient Story segment, we talk to Suzanne who gained weight later in life after an early and then late pregnancy. She had some moderate success losing weight on her own but ended up hitting a stall that she couldn’t overcome so she reached out to us for help. Zoe shares a strategy on how to incorporate new habits in our Nutrition segment. And Dr. Weiner begins a two-part series on drug patents in our Economics of Obesity segment. Part 1 focuses on how drug patents work and how the system can be manipulated to favor the pharmaceutical companies over patient care. Part 2 will air next week. We also answer 3 listener submitted questions including, homemade pizza made with cauliflower crust, veggies, and vegan cheese, our thoughts on Contrave, and diagnostic pattern dumping after surgery. Finally, some exciting news this week! We have added a new Weight Regain program to the practice. This program incorporates the expertise of both myself and Zoe and utilizes nutrition, GLP-1 medication, and behavior modification to help you lose the regain and keep it off. Plus! It’s available to anyone in the country.

Episode 21 of The Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast is titled, Vial Denial and the GLP-1 Shortage. The name comes from our Economics of Obesity segment where we discuss the GLP-1 shortage and how it’s caused by the inability to procure injector pens. Canada recognized this issue a while back and allowed pharmaceutical companies to use single dose vials instead of injector pens. So why aren’t we using single dose vials in the United States? I have some opinions about it. Our In the News segment comes from an article in Reuters about how Viking Therapeutics is developing a weight loss medication that can be taken orally. The Medication is similar to Mounjaro and Zepbound in that it is both a GLP-1 and a GIP and the initial studies show better weight loss with more responders than Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound in the injectable version. Is the oral version going to be as effective? Tune in to find out! In our Patient Story, we talk to Shenelle who is a very successful recovering alcoholic and drug addict. She started her weight loss journey after getting sober and is now a coach for bariatric patients struggling with food addiction. Her story of perseverance is truly inspiring. Zoe introduces the Emotional Eating Umbrella in our Nutrition segment. This is a concept she created to help quantify and qualify all the different attributes that encompass emotional eating so that we can develop new coping strategies for each individual trigger. Finally, we cover a few of our listener submitted questions including, thoughts on the Keto+ ACV gummies, Omeprazole after surgery, and nutrition and medication changes before pregnancy.

Episode 20 of The Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast is titled, Here Wegovy: Medicare Coverage for Heart Disease. We called it that because of the NPR article we cover in our In the News segment which states that Medicare will now cover Wegovy for patients who are overweight and suffer from heart disease. How does this impact the future of GLP-1 medications? Tune in to find out. In our Patient Story, we talk to Larry. He came to us after receiving a high blood pressure diagnosis from his primary care physician. He didn’t want to take medication for the rest of his life so he decided to embrace a gastric bypass and has surpassed our expectations of weight loss by combining the surgical tool with weight training. It’s a truly inspiring story. In our Nutrition segment, Zoe offers her #1 tip for grocery shopping that will encourage you to be successful in your weight loss efforts. Our Economics of Obesity segment covers the GLP-1 shortage. Mounjaro, Wegovy, Zepbound, Saxenda, Trulicity, and Ozempic are on the shortage list. So we are offering some creative solutions to get you through. Finally, we answer 3 of our listener’s questions including, fluid choices for energy and hydration, whether or not revision surgery causes the same amount of weight loss as the initial surgery, and exercise recommendations after weight loss surgery. If you have a question that you'd like for us to answer on the podcast, please reach out to us through social media (Instagram, Tik Tok, Facebook or YouTube), or the website.

Have you ever lifted weights and felt a surge of accomplishment that goes beyond physical strength? Uncover the transformative power of weightlifting, not just for your body, but also for your mind. Our 19th episode is a celebration of perseverance, unveiling our Weight Regain program tailored for those who've faced setbacks after bariatric surgery. We delve into personalized regimens, group support, and the game-changing use of GLP-1 medications, alongside The Metabolic Reset Diet. Plus, we're bringing you fascinating insights on how weightlifting can be a powerful ally against mental health struggles like anxiety and depression. Journey with us as Lori recounts the crucial steps she took on her path to gastric bypass surgery, underscoring the importance of 'head work' in achieving health goals. Her narrative is a profound look at the transformative shifts in mindset necessary for long-term wellness. Lori's story isn't just about the weight she lost; it's about the determination and reframed perspective that guided her success. We'll also navigate through the crucial aspects of sleep hygiene and the economics of obesity, providing actionable advice to enhance your overall health and understand how small changes can lead to significant impacts. Lastly, we're examining the evolution of pharmacy services, discussing Lilly's direct pharmacy model and Amazon's foray into the industry. What could these mean for patient access to essential medications? Moreover, we address listener questions about gut health post-bariatric surgery, emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet for a thriving microbiome. And for those curious about medication safety, we take a firm stance on the risks and ethics of prescribing compounded medications. Tune in for a comprehensive exploration of health, fitness, and the innovative changes sweeping through pharmacy care.

In this episode, we discuss the emotional toll of weight bias, the promise of medications like Ozempic, and the urgent need for accessibility and affordability in obesity treatments. We also delve into the inspiring stories of individuals on the path to better health, including Bev, who shares her impressive weight loss and improved mobility story. Plus, get ready to challenge misleading health claims and learn how to make more informed decisions in the grocery aisle. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion on the economics of obesity and the small steps that lead to a sustainable lifestyle overhaul. In our first chapter, we dive into Oprah's special on obesity, where she opens up about her personal struggles and highlights the importance of unbiased storytelling. We explore the effectiveness of weight loss medications and the need for greater accessibility and affordability in obesity treatments. Join us as we unpack the emotional toll of weight bias and the promise of a healthier future. In the second chapter, we are inspired by Bev's incredible weight loss journey and her transformation towards improved mobility. We explore the challenges of weight loss, the role of surgical intervention, and the importance of maintaining mobility as we age. Bev's story highlights the transformative power of shedding pounds and gaining strength, vitality, and a healthier life. Tune in to hear her inspirational journey towards better health and the ongoing goals required for long-term success. In our final chapter, we take a practical approach to goal-setting within our Smart Support Squad for nutrition. We discuss the importance of setting realistic, measurable, and achievable goals for sustainable habit change. We also shed light on the deceptive nature of health halos and provide tips on how to navigate misleading food labels. Join us as we arm you with the knowledge to make more informed decisions in the grocery aisle and embark on a better weight loss journey.

Ever wonder how to silence that incessant chatter in your brain that's always talking about food? This episode of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast we delve into the role of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, bariatric surgery, and proper nutrition in quieting 'food noise.' Our guest, Josh, shares his awe-inspiring weight loss journey, shedding 160 pounds through bariatric surgery and incremental fitness SMART goals. His story is a testament to the power of finding joy and community in exercise, from walking to hitting home runs with his softball team. Picture a space where men can candidly discuss their triumphs and trials, especially when it comes to the sensitive subject of bariatric surgery recovery. As a male peer leader, I've seen firsthand the transformative power of such support groups. We shed light on the unique challenges men face post-surgery and the incredible benefits of having a tailored community. But that's not all - we also navigate the complex terrain of nutrition and medication access, revealing how our program arms you with the skills for sustainable meal planning and tackling real-life obstacles to obesity treatment. As we wrap up another enlightening conversation, remember to enrich your weight loss journey by connecting with our broader community. Follow us on social media for daily doses of inspiration, and don't hesitate to share the podcast with anyone who could use a helping hand in their health quest. Josh's success story could be just the motivation someone needs to take that first step towards a lifestyle transformation. Join us as we continue to break down barriers and build up spirits on the Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast.

Embark on a journey with us as we explore a new weight loss medication by Viking Therapeutics. We delve into a comparison between it and established drugs like Ozempic, and peek into the pipeline of potential game-changers from Pfizer, AltImmune, and Amgen. Stir up your culinary creativity with our Greek yogurt and apple protein bowl recipe, a delectable treat that hits the sweet spot without the sugar crash. We also tackle the cost-saving strategies for extending the life of your Ozempic pen. Listen closely for the inside scoop on economical health hacks without compromising safety, and round out the episode with 3 questions from our listeners. Join us on this balanced adventure through the realms of health, nutrition, and economic savvy.

Ever wondered how the convoluted marketing strategies of Medicare Disadvantaged Plans influence our healthcare choices? Join us as we unravel the complexities of these plans, and the limitations seniors face when choosing a Medicare plan. During a riveting general surgery marathon at Tucson Medical Center, I was reminded of how our personal health journeys intertwine with the broader healthcare narrative. We'll also celebrate life's milestones, from weddings to weight loss triumphs, and discuss maintaining muscle while you melt away the pounds. We also offer insights from our guest Elizabeth, who tackles the tough topic of obesity bias within the weight loss surgery community. Weight regain can be a daunting prospect after the triumph of weight loss surgery. Hear the story of one individual's experience with vertical sleeve gastrectomy, her subsequent weight regain, and how GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro have become game-changers in maintaining control. We'll dig into the biological factors of weight control and the diverse responses to GLP-1 medications among those with and without a history of surgical weight loss. It's an eye-opening glimpse into the ongoing battle for sustained health and the critical role of medications post-surgery. Join our conversation on the power of community post-weight loss surgery, GLP-1 medications, obesity bias, and how to preserve muscle while losing weight. We round up with a look at delicious, healthy pasta options and practical tips for preventing weight regain after gastric sleeve surgery. Tune in for a hearty dose of knowledge and motivation to fuel your journey toward a healthier you.

Episode 14 kicks off with a Kohlrabi recipe from Dr. Weiner and continues with tales of variable reactions to GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, the conundrum of weight regain post-VSG surgery, and the intricate dance of GLP-1 dosing. Join our circle as we converse on genetic factors influencing treatment efficacy, the alternatives for the non-responders, and the art of maintaining an injury-free fitness routine, and the all-too-common hidden sugars lurking in protein bars. Facing obesity is an odyssey of both heartache and hope. Our guest, Chrisse opens up about her own struggles with obesity, the back injury that compounded it, and the undulating path of weight management post-bariatric surgery. She also talks about the emotional weight of obesity that often escapes the empathy afforded to other conditions. Together, we underscore the vital role of community and the unyielding spirit necessary to navigate these turbulent waters. Brace yourself for life-altering insights as Zoe, our personal trainer and registered dietitian, bestows her wisdom on both nutrition and exercise, offering actionable advice to steer clear of injuries and elevate your fitness journey. As we marvel at the athletic longevity of the legendary Tom Brady, we also tackle the pressing issue of obesity medication access, dissecting the hurdles faced by patients and healthcare providers alike. This episode is a heartfelt symphony of health and wellness, aiming to change the narrative around the pursuit of a healthier life.

Ever wondered how setting smart goals could redefine your health journey? Prepare to be inspired as we unveil a revolutionary goal tracker. In our nutrition program we tackle the Ozempic debate head-on, refocusing on its clinical prowess for those battling obesity and diabetes. Episode 13 isn't just about the nuts and bolts of health tech; it features the powerful narrative of our patient story, Laura, a peer leader whose story of triumph underscores the monumental difference community support can make in our lives. Big Pharma, insurance profits, and healthcare policies might sound like a snooze fest, but not the way we talk about them! We're dissecting the economic barriers to life-changing GLP-1 medications and offering up real solutions to make them accessible for everyone who needs them. But it's not all policy talk; we hear firsthand experience in building a community where health and weight management are open-book subjects, proving that the right support system is a catalyst for lasting wellness. Finally, imagine facing the post-bariatric surgery world without a compass—daunting, right? We're here to map out that journey, emphasizing the importance of peer support, hydration, movement, and the tailored nutritional strategies you'll need, especially if you're a weightlifting warrior. As we answer your questions on everything from Pfizer's weight loss pill to doctors' nutrition education, get ready for an episode that's packed with actionable advice, real talk, and the kind of storytelling that doesn't just inform—it transforms.

Celebrate a transformative year with us as we reflect on the birth of an independent healthcare practice dedicated to your wellness journey. Our anniversary isn't just about looking back; it's about charging forward with enhancements to your podcast listening, expanding our nutrition program, and fearlessly navigating the insurance battlefield on your behalf. Our commitment is unwavering as we delve into the economic ramifications of obesity bias, demystify the roles of nutritionists versus dietitians, and provide clear answers on supplements like berberine and effective calorie management with GLP-1 treatments. This episode isn't all talk; we walk the walk with Stacey's personal victory in her weight loss quest—a narrative that will fuel your motivation to take on healthy living, no matter the obstacles. As we examine the saga of Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk's pharmaceutical tug-of-war, we uncover how past biases inform present triumphs and trials. It's a tale of resilience, both in the industry and for individuals like Stacey, who illuminate the path to overcoming obesity with the right support and professional guidance. Your knowledge will expand as we unravel the impact of GLP-1 medications on metabolism, revolutionizing weight management, and clarify the myths surrounding surgical robots. Remember that the surgeon's expertise trumps the tool they wield. We thrive on your feedback, so as you absorb the wealth of insights from this episode, remember that your voice shapes our future content. Join us for an inspiring, knowledge-packed journey that empowers you to be an advocate for your health.

Embark on a transformative health journey with us as we uncover the remarkable stories of weight loss successes, the role of bariatric surgery, and the surprising impact of GLP-1 medications. Our latest episode is a heartfelt tableau of personal triumphs, from overcoming genetic predispositions to redefining one's relationship with food. As our guest candidly shares her inspiring path to a healthier life post-surgery, we unravel the complex emotions and societal judgments that often accompany the decision to undergo such a procedure. Navigating the world of weight management can be a labyrinth of frustration, especially when faced with insurance hurdles and the daunting prospect of bariatric surgery. Yet, the tales of lifestyle transformation post-operation bring a new perspective to light. Discover how a change in diet, coupled with newfound energy for life's activities, can redefine your everyday existence. We also dissect the language we use around eating, advocating for a shift towards more positive and empowering terminology, such as "treat" instead of "cheat" to foster a guilt-free, sustainable approach to nutrition. Finally, our conversation turns scientific, exploring the body's metabolism as a thermostat with a persistent 'set point'. We discuss the intricacies of lowering this set point with a mix of strategies, from mindful eating to surgical intervention. Listen as we guide you through the challenges of differentiating between food intolerance and genuine satiety post-surgery, providing insights that aim to smooth the path for anyone on this life-changing journey. Join us for an episode that's not just about shedding pounds but about gaining a deeper understanding of ourselves and the complexities of our bodies.

Celebrate a milestone with us on the Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast as we unwrap the perplexing world of medication costs and the light at the end of the tunnel for those striving for approval. We mark our 10th episode with a victory lap, having broken into the top 15% of all active podcasts, and there's much to discuss. From the cost of weight loss medications, to the sensitive matter of privacy in weight loss surgery decisions, we're peeling back the curtain on these pressing issues. Plus, we're sharing clever tips on how to sneak more vegetables into your family's diet for transformative health benefits – because who knew a simple "veggie drawer" could be so revolutionary? The power of community in the weight loss journey is immeasurable, as Amy's story with our program beautifully demonstrates. Her narrative is more than just personal triumph; it's about the chain reaction of positive change that ripples through a family, reaffirming that support systems and continuous engagement are vital for lasting success. As we navigate these heartfelt tales, we also tackle the controversial presence of Pharmacy Benefit Managers in the healthcare system. With legislation looming on the horizon, we discuss the potential for a fairer landscape and the sparkling promise of transparency models like Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Pharmacy. Wrapping up this episode, we acknowledge the hard truths about the viability of certain weight loss options. We also cover weight regain after a sleeve, nutrition options while traveling after surgery, and the weight loss medication Metformin. Don't forget to subscribe and join us on social media at 'a pound of cure' for more insightful, science-backed weight loss discussions. Here's to health, hope, and the pursuit of knowledge – until next time, keep tuning in for the stories and strategies that can shift the way you approach your wellness journey.

When the road to wellness seems cluttered with obstacles, our latest Pound of Cure podcast shines a beacon of hope, revealing the twists and turns of obesity treatment advancements. We tackle Pfizer's paused study on the GLP-1 agonist, Danuglipron, due to its severe side effects, but also cast a promising light on the horizon with Eli Lilly's Retatrutide and an upped dose of Novo Nordisk's Rybelsus. Understanding the quest for the right treatment is as personal as it is complex. We delve into the pharmaceutical industry's relentless pursuit to offer a spectrum of options that cater to individual needs and preferences. Amidst the science, we uncover the profound impact of bariatric surgery through the eyes of our guest, whose journey from pre-surgery apprehensions to post-operative triumphs embodies the transformational power of informed health decisions. The conversation extends beyond the operating room, exploring the vital role of education, dietary adjustments, and the indispensable support systems that provide a foundational pillar for sustainable weight management. This narrative isn't just about the scale's victory; it's a testament to reclaimed vitality and the unwavering human spirit. Rounding out our episode, we share actionable insights for those seeking to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle. From simple strategies for meal planning to the economic landscape that shapes access to obesity treatments, we address the everyday challenges and victories on the path to wellness. We also respond to listener questions, reassuring one on the importance of health over numbers and highlighting that supplements like Creatine are just one piece of the muscle-building puzzle. Join us as we celebrate successes, advocate for accessible treatments, and provide a dose of motivation, leaving you equipped and inspired to navigate your own health journey.

Ever find yourself questioning the moral compass of Big Pharma and their partnerships? Brace yourself as we navigate the intricate relationship between Eli Lilly and a telehealth company, dissecting how this could potentially skew prescription practices. With patient care and the integrity of medical advice at stake, we're not shying away from challenging the status quo, predicting the medical community's pushback, and advocating for transparency and patient-focused strategies over profit-driven alliances. Next we talk with our patient couple Kim and Larry. They open up about their weight loss struggles and how they found success combining nutrition and GLP-1 medication. It's a candid look into the reliance on support systems, the role of medications like GLP-1 agonists, and the often overlooked emotional journey behind managing eating habits. We'll pull back the curtain on the stigmatization attached to medication use in weight management and why it's time to normalize these life-changing aids that can redefine our relationship with food and hunger. Rounding off, we're strapping on our sneakers to tackle the economics of obesity treatment and the practicality of weaving movement into our daily lives. From ingenious 'movement sprinkles' to the financial burden of medications and surgeries, we're shedding light on accessibility issues and potential policy impacts. Plus, we won't leave you hanging on the topic of hiatal hernias post-gastric sleeve surgery, offering insights into when it's time to consider surgical intervention. Buckle up for a journey through the complexities of health, ethics, and personal well-being.

Imagine reducing your risk of cardiovascular diseases and cancer while transforming your body through weight loss. Our latest episode takes an exhilarating deep dive into the world of bariatric surgery and GLP-1 medications, exploring their potent effects on heart disease and cancer. We uncover the dramatic 25% dip in cancer risk post-surgery and put GLP-1's heart benefits under the microscope, comparing them to the tried-and-true statins. Hear a moving account from a patient whose weight loss journey might signal a new era in medical treatments for obesity. Embarking on a personal quest for weight loss isn't a one-size-fits-all affair. We shed light on the diverse paths individuals embark on, from the operating table to the pharmacy, and dissect the factors influencing these life-altering decisions. In a nutritional detour, discover how lentil pasta's high-protein, high-fiber content can revolutionize your diet—without the exorphins that fuel overeating. We also peel back the curtain on weight loss strategies and the often-overlooked aspect of medication costs, providing you with a guide to navigating these complex waters. Addressing your burning questions, we provide personalized insights into Ozempic dosing for weight loss and demystify concerns about metabolism rates—information that just might reshape your weight management approach. Furthermore, we serve up advice for those on plant-based diets and offer alternative metrics to measure health progress, stepping beyond the confines of the scale. Wrapping up, we tackle the misconceptions about GLP-1 medications, addressing the fears surrounding medullary thyroid cancer and pancreatitis with the precision of a seasoned clinician. Join us for this episode, where each listener finds a tailored path to health and well-being, all backed by the latest scientific insights.

Could Zepbound, the latest GLP-1 medication, eclipse the success of weight loss giant Wegovy? Tune in as we dissect the burgeoning revolution in obesity treatment, where medications such as Ozempic and Mounjaro are redefining the approach to this stubborn metabolic disease. We unpack the stunning efficacy of Zepbound, debate its potential to rival bariatric surgery outcomes, and confront the crucial issue of medication accessibility. Drawing on expert insights, we offer predictions on how Zepbound might reshape the availability and affordability of weight loss treatments in the upcoming year, navigating the complexities of supply chain disturbances and pharmaceutical management. The conversation takes a futuristic turn with the introduction of AI into the weight management arena. Imagine a world where meal planning and health resources are fine-tuned by intelligent algorithms, shaping the way consumers and healthcare providers tackle obesity. We scrutinize Novo Nordisk's supply dilemmas but offer kudos to Eli Lilly for their adept handling of Mounjaro distribution. The narrative then shifts to the adventurous—patients sourcing GLP-1 drugs from overseas to bypass insurance hurdles and the growing trend of non-diabetics using continuous glucose monitoring. We peel back the layers of these trends to reveal their implications for the future of weight loss and health management. Lastly, we ponder the changing landscape of bariatric surgery amid the rise of GLP-1 medications, discussing the decline in surgery rates and the exciting potential for combination therapies. We also stir the pot on lifestyle shifts, spotlighting the conscious reduction in caffeine and alcohol intake for improved sleep and overall wellness. Our commitment to bringing you the latest insights in health and fitness remains unwavering. With our finger on the pulse, we promise another year of thought-provoking discussions and invaluable content that will keep you informed and motivated on your health journey.

Imagine tipping the scales in favor of weight loss success—our latest episode does just that with a deep dive into the obesity management arena. We discuss the excitement around Zepbound, the new FDA-approved heavyweight in weight loss medications, and consider its potential to outrank Ozempic with fewer side effects. You'll not only hear about the economics behind obesity but also gain strategies for those paying out-of-pocket for GLP-1 medications. And if that's not enough, we share a real-life story of a patient's journey through various bariatric surgeries, and why something as simple as sparkling water could be a game-changer for your nutrition. Is your diet working in concert with your weight loss medication? We examine the critical role of integrating a nutrient-rich diet with treatments like Zepbound. Get the lowdown on why a balanced plate beats calorie counting any day and how the combination of medication and lifestyle changes can lead to the most significant transformations. Then, we take you through a patient's story from band to sleeve to gastric bypass, revealing the trials and victories along the way, and punctuate the chapter with a bubbly tip on staying hydrated that will have you rethinking your drink choices. Lastly, we compare GLP-1 medications + sleeve surgery versus the duodenal switch, responding to burning questions from our listeners about these weight management strategies. Delving into the intriguing world of gut health, we advocate for a more natural approach before resorting to probiotic supplements. Closing the chapter, we navigate the intricacies of GLP-1 medications for both bariatric surgery veterans and newcomers, shedding light on the nuanced treatment journeys of individual patients. Join us as we quench your thirst for knowledge with a robust discussion on the interplay of diet, lifestyle, and medication in the quest for a healthier life.