Core Bariatrics

Episode 28: Managing Food Noise and Men and Weight Loss

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2274605/open_sms] Has "food noise" ever kept you up at night? In this eye-opening episode of the Core Bariatrics Podcast, we explore the pervasive issue of constant food thoughts and how they can impact your daily life and mental health. We also delve into practical solutions, highlighting medications like Contrave that can help manage food noise effectively, and discuss how to handle those pesky cravings triggered by flavored water. Our conversation doesn't stop at food noise. Men, this one's for you too. We dive into the societal expectations and stigmas men face when it comes to weight management, and why it's crucial to overcome them. Discover the tangible health benefits weight loss can bring—from improved fertility to better sexual health—and hear inspiring stories of transformation that go beyond physical appearance. Whether you're considering bariatric surgery or simply looking for ways to manage your weight more effectively, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement to support you on your journey.

Episode 27: Robotics, Safety, and the Quest for Excellence with Dr. Ian Soriano

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2274605/open_sms] Embark on an enlightening journey with Dr. Ian Soriano, UCSF's head of robotic surgery, as he unveils his continuous quest for excellence in both the medical field and personal growth. Our recent conversation illuminates the transformative power of stepping outside one’s comfort zone, exemplified by both Dr. Soriano and even Tammie. Their stories serve as a beacon, guiding us through the importance of quality improvement and patient safety that has sculpted Dr. Soriano's illustrious career and his pivotal role in guiding UCSF's Clinical Performance and Improvement Committee. Venture into the future of medicine as we dissect the advantages of robotic surgery beyond its clinical implications. Discover how cutting-edge technology not only enhances patient care but also safeguards the physical well-being of surgeons, offering a persuasive argument for the ergonomic benefits of robots in the operating room. Dr. Soriano demystifies the concept of robotic surgery, clarifying its intricacies and the necessity for surgeons to be at the helm, guiding with precision and finesse. His personal anecdotes underscore the seamless integration and adaptability of robotics in contemporary surgical practices, challenging the myths surrounding these technological marvels. Our dialogue with Dr. Soriano extends to the delicate dance between efficiency and patient safety in the realm of surgery. He shares invaluable insights into how data-driven evaluations of surgical techniques contribute to refining a surgeon's craft, ensuring the highest quality of care. We wrap up with an appetite for more discussion, as we touch upon the symbiosis of robotics and surgery's future. Although constrained by time, our exchange was rich with the promise of continued exploration into how technological strides are reshaping healthcare and the global surgical landscape. Join us and be inspired by the innovation and unwavering dedication that propels the world of surgery forward.

Episode 26: Fan Main & Mental Health

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2274605/open_sms] Imagine being dismissed by your healthcare provider, told that your choice for bariatric surgery is unnecessary and lazy. This is a reality many face, and in this episode of the Core Bariatrics Podcast, Tammie reads a message that dives into a listener's disheartening experience and examine the critical misconceptions that persist around bariatric surgery. Hear firsthand why informed support is essential and why you should never let uninformed criticism deter you from your health decisions. It's time we challenge these outdated views and advocate for compassionate, informed healthcare. Ever wondered about the unspoken challenges post-bariatric surgery? Tammie discusses the unexpected shift from using food as an emotional crutch to potentially increased alcohol consumption. Dr. Iliakova and Tammie speak candidly about the personal struggles of adapting to a new lifestyle, the strain on long-term relationships, and the loneliness that can come when friendships change. Discover the importance of finding true friends who understand and support your journey. It's a raw and real conversation about being fundamentally different and finding your way through it all. Lastly, we delve into the journey of self-expression and the fear of judgment. How do you find self-confidence in a world quick to judge? Through stories of personal growth, including dancing sober and managing societal perceptions, Dr. Iliakova and Tammie offer insights on embracing self-care and mental well-being. We discuss the delicate balance between self-care and selflessness, especially in high-pressure professions like medicine. With practical advice and heartfelt anecdotes, this episode is a compassionate guide to navigating life's challenges with grace and finding gratitude in supportive communities. Listen in and learn how to stand strong in your truth.

Episode 25: Dr. Shauna Levy on the Frontlines of Bariatric Surgery

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2274605/open_sms] Discover the profound insights of Dr. Shauna Levy, the trailblazing Chief of Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery at Tulane University, as she joins us to discuss the complexities and triumphs in the fight against obesity. In an intimate conversation, Dr. Levy unveils her journey from an aspiring pediatrician to a pioneer in bariatric surgery, her advocacy for insurance coverage for obesity treatments, and her unyielding commitment to educate the medical community about obesity as a multifaceted disease. Our discussion delves into the significance of a multidisciplinary treatment approach, combining the expertise of providers, dietitians, and mental health professionals to craft personalized care plans for those grappling with obesity. Join us for a powerful episode where we tackle the pervasive misconceptions and discrimination surrounding bariatric surgery and obesity. Dr. Levy passionately dissects the stereotype of bariatric surgery as the "easy way out," instead highlighting its role as an essential lifeline for many individuals. We also celebrate the transformative "losers bench" tradition, where patients commemorate their weight loss milestones. Through Dr. Levy's narrative, we explore the joy and fulfillment that accompany the life-changing impacts of bariatric surgery, and how support groups play a critical role in dismantling obesity stigma. This episode promises not just a deeper understanding of obesity care but also a look at the heartwarming victories that come with it.

Episode 24: Q&A

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2274605/open_sms] 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.