We met on 15 September 2025 at the Education Hub, The George Centre, Gregory Hills for the Southwest Bariatrics support group.
Guest speaker
Angela Askew, our bariatric dietitian, presented an informative session on weight regain after bariatric surgery. Angela covered the common causes of weight regain (anatomical, physiological and behavioural) and illustrated each with practical examples.
Eating behaviours
Angela emphasised that eating behaviours are a major contributor to weight regain. She outlined common problematic patterns and strategies to address them:
- Skipping meals — plan regular meals to avoid excessive hunger and overeating later.
- Grazing — set structured snack times and prepare portioned snacks.
- Drinking calories — choose water or low-calorie drinks; reserve caloric intake for nutrient-dense foods.
Lifestyle changes and practical advice
Angela reinforced the importance of sustainable lifestyle habits, including:
- Regular physical activity
- Meal planning and preparation
- Avoiding slider foods and takeaway meals
- Ensuring adequate protein intake
She also provided sample meal plans to help attendees implement these changes.
Questions and peer support
We held an open Q&A where attendees raised topics related to bariatric surgery. One person preparing for surgery in the coming weeks received personalised advice. It was heartening to see many members share tips, strategies and personal experiences to support one another.
Refreshments and prize
As usual, tea, coffee and a fruit platter were available, and we concluded the meeting with our lucky door prize.
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