Success after bariatric surgery goes far beyond the operating room—it’s about building habits, fostering resilience, and redefining relationships with food and health.

In this episode, Jennifer Tsoutsoulis, a dietitian from Melbourne Gastro, and counsellor Lisa O’Loughlin discuss the importance of habit formation after bariatric surgery. They emphasise building healthy routines during the first 12 months, a critical "honeymoon" period, to set the stage for long-term success. Jennifer highlights managing portion control and hunger cues, while Lisa addresses the psychological aspects of emotional eating and creating a sustainable relationship with food.

They also discuss their "Reconnect Retreat," an immersive program offering dietetic guidance, counselling workshops, cooking demonstrations, and exercise sessions. Designed for patients 12 months or more post-surgery, the retreat fosters community, practical skills, and a renewed focus on long-term health goals.

Discover how expert guidance and holistic strategies can transform your bariatric journey—tune in to gain practical tips and inspiration for lasting success!

Episode Highlights:

• About Jennifer and Lisa’s background

• Importance of habits

• The role of the dietitian

• Lisa highlights the psychological aspects of bariatric surgery

• Challenges of post-surgery

• The significance of combining dietetics, counselling, exercise physiology, and psychology to provide comprehensive support for patients

• The value of patients connecting with others facing similar challenges

• Impact of bariatric surgery

• Pre- and Post-Surgery Support

• About the “Reconnect Retreat”

• Benefits of the Retreat 

About Our Guest:

Jennifer Tsoutsoulis:
Accredited Practising Dietitian (BHumNut MDiet)

Jennifer Tsoutsoulis is a dedicated bariatric dietitian with over six years of experience, including the last five years working at Melbourne Weight Loss Surgery. Her passion lies in empowering clients to enhance their nutritional knowledge and skills. Jennifer takes a personalised approach, offering tailored strategies to help individuals make sustainable lifestyle changes that improve their long-term health and well-being.

Lisa O’Loughlin:
Counsellor (BSocSc(Counselling), GDipHumNutr)

Lisa O’Loughlin is a bariatric and weight management counsellor. She has dedicated 10 years working exclusively with those navigating their relationship with food & body image. The heart of Lisa’s work is to transform the lives of those who are feeling stuck, who are unaware of their subconscious blocks holding them back and who are ready for change. Through a mix of psychological tools and talk therapy Lisa can guide you towards implementing the actions you need to take to live in line with your best self.

Connect with Jen and Lisa:

• Website | mwls.com.au/

• Jennifer’s Linked In | au.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-tsoutsoulis

• Instagram | @melbourneweightlosssurgery

• Lisa’s Instagram | @lisa_o.loughlin

• Lisa’s Youtube | www.youtube.com/@LisaOLoughlin

Discount Codes/Promotions:

25% off any Melbourne Weight Loss Surgery Resources (at https://mwls.com.au/shop) with code: BN25 (Valid until 31/12/2024, one per customer)

$200 off Reconnect Retreat (https://mwls.com.au/retreat) with the code: RETREATBN (Valid until 17/01/2025, one per customer)

*For the retreat code, it will still apply whether the code is applied to the deposit purchase or the upfront full payment on the retreat page.

For any issues with applying the discount or other retreat inquiries, I can be contacted at socialmedia@mgos.com.au