In Episode 47 of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast, Dr. Matthew Weiner and Zoe Schroeder, RD dive into weight loss topics like compounded GLP-1 medications, ultra-processed foods and their link to heart disease, and processed meat alternatives.

Ultra-processed Foods: Are Some Worse Than Others?

A recent study published in The Lancet found that ultra-processed foods make up a shocking 73% of the U.S. food supply, with significant consequences for heart health.

Dr. Weiner and Zoe discuss how this study highlighted an 11% increased risk of heart disease for those who consumed the most ultra-processed foods. The study particularly focused on the worst offenders: processed meats and sugar-sweetened beverages. These foods were shown to have the strongest links to heart disease.

One fascinating finding from the study is that not all ultra-processed foods have the same impact. When processed meats and sugary drinks are removed from the equation, the difference in heart disease risk between people who eat a lot of ultra-processed foods and those who don’t becomes much smaller. This reinforces the idea that not all ultra-processed foods are equal when it comes to heart disease risk. Avoiding processed meats and sugary drinks can significantly lower your risk, while focusing on healthier food choices can improve your long-term health.

Nutrition and Heart Health: How to Eat Smarter

When it comes to improving heart health, Dr. Weiner and Zoe offer practical advice on what foods to choose instead of processed meats. Zoe emphasizes the importance of focusing on whole, unprocessed foods, such as:

• Fruits and vegetables: These are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help support heart health.
• Lean animal proteins: Opt for fish, chicken, and lean cuts of red meat as alternatives to fatty cuts of red meat and processed meats. These options provide high-quality protein without the unhealthy fats found in processed meats.
• Nuts and seeds: Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and protein, these are great plant-based alternatives to meat.
• Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are nutrient-dense and provide a satisfying source of protein and fiber.

The key is to focus on nutrient-dense, whole foods rather than simply trying to restrict calories or follow fad diets. The Pound of Cure philosophy encourages a shift in mindset toward eating for nutrition and long-term health and weight loss rather than fast weight loss which will, ultimately, come back.

Zoe also mentions the importance of minimizing food noise—the constant mental distraction and cravings for unhealthy foods—by incorporating satisfying, high-quality meals into your daily routine. By making smarter food choices, you can naturally reduce your cravings for processed foods and improve both your heart health and overall well-being.

Replacing processed meats with nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, and legumes is a smart strategy for improving heart health and managing weight.

The Role of GLP-1 Medications in Weight Loss

The episode concludes with an in-depth discussion on the role of GLP-1 medications in weight loss, particularly focusing on the recent shortages and their implications. These medications, like Wegovy and Zepbound, have been highly sought after due to their ability to lower the body’s set point. However, earlier shortages led many patients to seek compounded versions of these drugs.

Dr. Weiner explains that compounded GLP-1 medications are custom-made by compounding pharmacies, which mix the active ingredients (Semaglutide or Tirzepatide) with saline, B12 or other additives.

Release the GLP-1 Vials

The shortage of GLP-1 medications, like Wegovy and Zepbound, was primarily caused by the manufacturing of inj

In this episode of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast, Dr. Weiner and Zoe explore the key strategies and medical options available for weight loss, focusing on GLP-1 medications, a comparison between gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, and effective obesity treatment plans. This episode provides valuable insights for individuals exploring weight loss surgery, those using GLP-1 medications, and anyone interested in long-term, sustainable weight management.

GLP-1 Medications and Their Role in Obesity Treatment

The episode starts with an in-depth discussion about GLP-1 medications, such as Wegovy (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide). Dr. Weiner explains that these medications represent a significant development in the medical treatment of obesity. GLP-1 medications work by modifying hormonal pathways that regulate hunger, fullness, and metabolism, thereby influencing the body’s internal set point for weight. Rather than simply curbing appetite, these medications help adjust how the body manages energy and fat storage, making weight loss more achievable and sustainable over time.

Dr. Weiner emphasizes that while GLP-1 medications can be highly effective, they are most beneficial when combined with a structured nutrition program and, when appropriate, surgical intervention. He notes that addressing obesity often requires a multi-faceted approach that goes beyond medication alone. Zoe adds that integrating these medications into a comprehensive weight management strategy that includes lifestyle changes is key for long-term success.

Gastric Bypass vs. Sleeve Gastrectomy: What’s the Difference?

One of the central discussions of this episode is the comparison between Gastric Bypass vs. Sleeve Gastrectomy. Dr. Weiner explains the key differences, benefits, and considerations for each procedure, helping listeners understand which option might be best suited for their specific situation.

Gastric Bypass: This procedure involves rerouting the digestive system, creating a small stomach pouch that is connected directly to the small intestine. Dr. Weiner explains that gastric bypass tends to result in greater weight loss and has a strong track record for addressing severe GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). For patients who experience significant acid reflux, gastric bypass is often the preferred option since it bypasses the portion of the stomach that makes digestive enzymes​​.

Sleeve Gastrectomy: Also known as VSG (Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy), this surgery removes a large portion of the stomach, leaving a sleeve-like structure. Dr. Weiner notes that while the procedure is less invasive and has a shorter recovery time, it may not be ideal for patients with pre-existing acid reflux. Studies show that up to 5-10% of patients who undergo sleeve gastrectomy can experience worsening GERD symptoms, which may necessitate a revision to gastric bypass​​.

Dr. Weiner explains that the choice between these procedures often depends on factors such as the patient's starting BMI, the presence of GERD, and individual health goals. He encourages patients to work closely with their surgical team to determine which option is most effective for their needs. Additionally, online tools and assessments provided by the practice can help patients explore which procedure might suit them best based on their health history and weight loss goals​.

A Comprehensive Approach to Obesity Treatment: Combining Surgery, Medication, and Nutrition

Dr. Weiner emphasizes that obesity treatment is most effective when it includes a combination of surgical, medical, and nutritional strategies. For many patients, integrating GLP-1 medications with bariatric surgery can amplify weight loss results, as these interventions work synergistically rather than in isolation. Both approaches target hormonal pathways that influence hunger and fullness, creating a more comprehensive shi

In this episode of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast, we sit down with BethAnn, whose journey through bariatric surgery has completely transformed her life. From struggling with weight her entire life, trying countless diets, and facing health challenges, to finally achieving long-term success after surgery, BethAnn's story is one of determination, resilience, and self-care.

BethAnn didn’t just stop at weight loss—she took additional steps to feel comfortable in her new body, including skin removal surgery. She also navigated the self-pay bariatric surgery route, making informed decisions to get the best results for her personal situation.

Let’s dive into her incredible journey and learn how bariatric surgery can change not just your body, but your entire outlook on life. Whether you're exploring bariatric surgery for yourself, curious about skin removal after weight loss, or considering self-pay options, BethAnn’s story is packed with insights that may guide you on your own path.

Bariatric Surgery Success Story: BethAnn's Lifelong Weight Struggles

BethAnn’s story is one that many can relate to. She had been battling her weight since childhood, trying everything from Richard Simmons’ Deal-a-Meal to more extreme options like OptiFast, a liquid-only diet. While she did experience short-term weight loss success with these diets—losing as much as 150 pounds—BethAnn found herself regaining the weight over and over.

By the time she reached her late 40s, BethAnn had resigned herself to living with the constant weight struggle. After undergoing a hysterectomy, she noticed her weight began to redistribute to her midsection, leading to additional health concerns like high blood pressure and rising cholesterol. She knew she needed a long-term solution.

"I’d done this seven times—lost the weight, gained it back," BethAnn explains. "The real battle for me was not losing the weight, but keeping it off."

That's when she began to seriously consider bariatric surgery. Initially, like many, she hesitated, thinking of it as "cheating" or "taking the easy way out." But as she reframed the narrative, it became clear that bariatric surgery was a tool that could give her a second chance at a healthier life.

After researching extensively and watching Dr. Weiner's video series, BethAnn decided to move forward with a gastric bypass procedure. This decision would turn out to be the start of her success story.

Choosing Gastric Bypass Over VSG

BethAnn’s success with bariatric surgery didn’t happen overnight, and her choice to go with gastric bypass rather than VSG (Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy) was strategic. For her, avoiding weight regain was the ultimate goal. She was determined to pick the surgery that gave her the best long-term chance of success, and after careful research, she saw that gastric bypass offered better outcomes for maintaining weight loss over the years.

"I was less concerned about losing the weight and more focused on keeping it off," she says. "I knew that gastric bypass had better stats when it came to avoiding weight regain, and I’d been through enough yo-yo dieting to know that was my biggest challenge."

At the time of her surgery, BethAnn weighed just under 200 pounds—making her a lower BMI patient for bariatric surgery. Still, her choice of gastric bypass was a decision based on her history of weight regain, not just her starting weight.

Skin Removal After Weight Loss: A Necessary Next Step

After her weight stabilized at around 115-120 pounds, BethAnn faced another challenge that many post-op patients encounter: loose skin. This is a common side effect of significant weight loss, especially after bariatric surgery. Skin doesn’t always “snap back” into place after the weight is gone, and for BethAnn, it was more than just a cosmetic issue.

"It wasn’t like the loose skin was only visible at certain angles