19. Bariatric Surgery & Booze: What Happens Next? with Helen Kimmel

In this episode, I’m joined by Helen Kimmel , bariatric patient, dietitian, and someone who’s not afraid to call it like it is to tackle the truth about alcohol after weight loss surgery. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about "one drink." Helen and I break down the science behind how alcohol messes with your body after surgery, why we all seem to ignore the mental traps around drinking, and how to make booze fit into a post-surgery lifestyle without totally derailing your progress. We also dive into GLP-1 meds, why tracking your drinks is a must (even if you’re in denial), and how mindfulness could be the game-changer you didn’t know you needed to stay on track.Takeaways Why Drinking Alcohol Too Soon After Bariatric Surgery Could Be a Dangerous MistakeThe Hidden Dangers of Alcohol Post-Surgery: How Fast Does It Really Hit?GLP-1 Medications and Alcohol: What You Need to Know Before Taking a SipWhy Tracking Your Alcohol Intake Could Be the Key to Long-Term Weight LossHow to Enjoy Alcohol Without Sabotaging Your Bariatric SuccessTimestamps Chapters00:00 Introduction to Alcohol and Hydration Post-Surgery03:01 Helen's Personal Journey and Professional Insights05:55 Understanding Alcohol's Impact on the Body09:04 Navigating Alcohol Consumption Safely12:04 The Metabolic Effects of Alcohol15:05 Incorporating Alcohol Responsibly After Surgery17:53 Mindful Drinking and Tracking Calories28:06 Balancing Nutrition and Enjoyment32:07 Mindfulness in Eating and Drinking40:15 Navigating Alcohol After Bariatric Surgery46:40 Understanding GLP-1s and Their Impact48:44 Rapid Fire Insights and Closing Thoughts