Ep 59: Client Spotlight | Stacey Shares Leaving the Dieting Mindset While Maximising Weight Loss in Her First 12 Months Post WLS
This post is a companion to Episode 59 of the Bariatric Nutrition Coach Podcast. Listen to the full episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
In this episode I was joined by the wonderful Stacey — from outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania — who is approaching her one-year post-op anniversary after gastric bypass surgery. Stacey first discovered me on the OSLP podcast and spent months researching before reaching out to work together. Now here she is, nine months later, sharing her journey as a full circle moment.
Stacey's Road to Surgery
Stacey spent decades in the yo-yo dieting cycle — Weight Watchers, keto, Mediterranean, fasting. She had success at times, but after menopause, nothing worked. Despite trying medical weight loss programs and various medications, the weight kept increasing. Attending an information session on surgical options at her local hospital changed everything. She describes it now as life-saving — challenging, yes, but utterly transformative.
Leaving the Dieting Mindset Behind
One of the most significant shifts Stacey made in her first year was recognising how much the dieting mindset was getting in her way. She had spent her whole life in restriction mode — following rules, labelling foods as good or bad, feeling shame when she went off plan. After surgery, she began learning a completely different way of relating to food: eating regularly, prioritising protein, and listening to her body rather than following a script.
This shift did not happen overnight. It took time, support, and a willingness to trust a new approach. But Stacey describes it as one of the most freeing experiences of her life.
What Has Made the Difference
For Stacey, having personalised support that adapted to her life — including a major house move mid-journey — was essential. Not a one-size-fits-all plan, but guidance that helped her understand the why, build her own structure, and navigate challenges as they came up. She moved from feeling overwhelmed and uncertain to confident and in control.
Her Message to Others
Invest in yourself and your journey from the beginning. Seek out support that truly understands bariatric surgery. And be open to the idea that this time — with the right tool and the right support — it really can be different.
🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Listen to the full conversation on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and subscribe so you never miss a new episode every Monday!