Welcome back to The Weight Loss Collab! In this episode, Dr. Betsy Dovec and Hannah Schuyler take you through the crucial period directly before, during, and immediately after bariatric surgery. If you're feeling anxious about surgery, especially if it’s your first time under anesthesia or in an operating room, you're not alone—and this conversation will help ease those worries. From demystifying the two-day clear liquid diet and explaining the liver shrinking process, to what really happens the morning of surgery at the center, the team covers every detail so you’ll know exactly what to expect. They talk through hydration tips, pain management, pre-op prep, meeting the surgical staff, and the step-by-step journey to the OR—right up until the moment you fall asleep for surgery. Whether you’re preparing for your procedure or just curious, this is your go-to resource to feel fully prepared and confident for your bariatric journey.

If you have ever wondered whether bariatric surgery could be right for you, this episode of The Weight Loss Collab is the perfect place to start. Dr. Betsy Dovec and registered dietitian Hannah Schuyler break down the basics of weight loss surgery and answer the questions patients ask most before taking that first step.

Who qualifies for bariatric surgery? Is BMI the only factor that matters? How do gastric sleeve and gastric bypass compare, and how much weight can you realistically expect to lose? We also explain insurance requirements, self-pay options, preoperative testing, nutrition visits, psychological evaluations, and what the timeline from consultation to surgery actually looks like.

You will also learn where GLP-1 weight loss medications fit into the conversation, how bariatric surgery can affect your health and body, and what long-term support looks like after surgery.

If weight loss surgery has even crossed your mind, this episode will help you understand your options, know what questions to ask, and decide what your next step might be.

Welcome back to The Weight Loss Collab! In today’s episode, we’re putting the spotlight on one of the most underrated yet essential nutrients for weight loss and overall health: fiber. Hannah Schuyler, our resident dietitian, and Dr. Dovec break down everything you need to know about fiber, from what it actually is, why it matters, and how it can help you with gut health, blood sugar management, satiety, and shedding those stubborn pounds. Whether you think fiber is boring or have always connected it solely to gut health, you’re about to discover why it’s “that girl” in your nutrition plan.

We’ll dive into the different types of fiber, the best food sources (spoiler: chia seeds and beans get some major love), how to increase your intake safely, and the critical role fiber plays in keeping you fuller for longer, especially if you’ve had bariatric surgery or are on a weight loss medication. Grab your grocery lists and get ready to rethink your next meal. Fiber is having a moment, and you’ll learn how to make it work for you!