Our Coaches About us FAQ Blog Testimonials

Why “Sugar-Free” Might Be Stalling Your Weight Loss After Bariatric Surgery
May 01, 2025
The Rewrite Lifestyle Center helps individuals overcome food addiction, emotional eating, and stress eating through expert bariatric nutrition, mindset coaching, and sustainable healthy habits for long-term weight loss success.

 

As a bariatric patient and a student of functional nutrition, Shenelle Coplien has firsthand insight into the metabolic traps many post-op patients fall into. One of the most surprising discoveries? Your tongue—and your brain—can’t tell the difference between real sugar and artificial sweeteners. And that confusion can stall your weight loss journey, even when everything on your plate is labeled “sugar-free.”

 

Your Tongue Can’t Tell the Difference—But Your Body Pays the Price

When artificial sweeteners hit your tongue, they signal your brain the same way real sugar does: “Get ready, carbs are coming!” In response, your brain tells your pancreas to release insulin. The problem? No real sugar ever arrives.

This misfire creates metabolic confusion, often leading to:

  • Insulin release without purpose

  • Disrupted hunger cues

  • Increased cravings

  • Potential weight stalls or gains

Studies have shown that these sweeteners not only confuse your metabolism but can also impair your body’s ability to recognize fullness (source)—a dangerous combo after bariatric surgery.

 

Are You Living in a “Sugar-Free” Trap?

After surgery, many patients load up on multiple sugar-free products every day—protein shakes, yogurts, bars, and prepackaged meals. Unfortunately, those choices may be holding you back.

If you're wondering why your hunger seems out of control or your weight loss has plateaued, consider the hidden role of artificial sweeteners in your routine. Research suggests that frequent consumption of artificial sweeteners can:

  • Alter gut microbiota (PubMed)

  • Trigger insulin resistance

  • Increase the risk of glucose intolerance

  • Undermine efforts to stabilize blood sugar and hunger hormones

Real Change, Not Diet Culture: How to Move Beyond the Sugar-Free Phase

Here’s the good news: you can transition out of the sugar-free cycle and into sustainable change with the right tools and support.

Shenelle recommends trying natural, whole-food protein alternatives like:

  • Promix

  • Ancient Nutrition

  • Marigold Sunflower Protein

(Note: She has no sponsorship ties—these are just high-quality picks she recommends to clients.)

Want more help figuring out what to eat in early pre-op or post-op stages? Join the Bariatric Rewrite Private Group or our UK group for daily support, Whole Foods recipes, and a judgment-free space to ditch diet culture.

 

Rewrite Your Metabolism with Functional Nutrition

At The Rewrite Lifestyle Center, we don’t do diet culture. We do real change. Understanding how artificial sweeteners affect your insulin and hunger is just one part of the bigger picture.

To explore more topics like sugar addiction, real-food protein options, and healing post-op habits, check out our post on how hydration and artificial sweeteners affect bariatric recovery, and take our Food Addiction Quiz to learn more about your habits.

 

🔗 Internal Links (3 Total)

🌐 External Links (3 Total)

Are You Struggling with Food Addiction? Take the First Step Today!

If cravings, binge eating, or emotional eating are holding you back, you’re not alone. Food addiction can impact long-term weight loss, especially after bariatric surgery (gastric sleeve, bypass surgery).

At The Rewrite Lifestyle Center, we help you break free from stress eating and build a sustainable, healthy relationship with food.

✅ Discover if you're facing food addiction and get expert guidance on bariatric nutrition, meal plans, and support from Shenelle Coplien and the Bariatric Rewrite team. Your journey to lasting weight loss starts here!
👉 Take the Food Addiction Quiz Now! – https://www.rewritelifestyle.com/are-you-a-food-addict

Join our bariatric support community for expert tips on the bariatric diet, post-bariatric surgery care, healthy eating, and bariatric recipes to fuel your transformation.

Looking for something?

Daniella Hott-Barham

Shenelle and her team have big hearts and are truly here to help people. In a little while over a week I'm down 5 pounds just by cutting out the ultra processed protein snacks and artificial sweeteners. She is the real deal and won't steer you wrong!

Danaye Henken

I found Shenelle and the Rewrite just after my 1 year sleeveiversary. I was training for my first marathon taking guidance from a nutritionist who is also a runner but knew nothing about life after bariatric surgery. I had regained 16lbs in the span of about a month and was miserable. I started Shenelle a program and INSTANTLY felt like I was home. The community, the support and the program. It was hard work, but the kind that’s rewarding because it changes your life. In 4 months I went from 188lbs to 149lbs and I’m about to run my SECOND marathon. I’m stronger physically but also mentally. After being in this community for a while, Shenelle offered me the opportunity to give back to the same people who helped me. I’m proud to say I’m one of the coaches here now. Sharing my story and helping people on their journey to living their best life.

Kathleen Sloan Holdsworth

I was struggling from 25 lb regain 7 years post surgery. My weight-loss team abandoned me and offered me zero help. I was afraid I would put on all the weight I lost (98 lbs) if I didn't find help.
I joined Bariatric Rewrite and learned new techniques for someone years out from my surgery. The peer support and community is a huge portion of what I need to keep me on track. There is a no excuses attitude with the program. I need that to  keep honest with myself and the scale.
I recommend the Rewrite for anyone on the surgical journey. It is essential for learning how your new body works and how to maintain the progress one obtains with WLS. I lost the regain and feel great, once again.

Mary Christiansen

Rewrite Is A Life Changing Program!!!! I am 6 years post sleeve surgery, had regained 28 lbs and was not motivated or feeling well and had no idea how to regain control!!! After joining this program at the beginning of December I am down 10 lbs, have set goals and I am looking forward with Excitement, Encouragement and a passion for My Health and well being!!!! There is Hope!!! Thank You!!!! @The Rewrite!!!!

Rita Hernandez

If you have had or are planning to have bariatric surgery then you’re in the right place. Since I joined 10 months ago I found the support I needed to be successful. I’m down 100 pounds in 11 months post surgery and I could not have done it without the Bariatric Rewrite Academy, my coaches Shenelle and Seda and all the community. Thank you!
 

Mary Parton-Bultmann

I have been with Bariatric re-write for over a year and it has been life-changing. I am a revision patient and never had support following surgery. I have learned how to fuel my body appropriately. I have also been able to address my food addiction in a safe, caring and knowledgeable community.. I’ve lost 172 pounds with Bariatric re-write guiding me and educating me and never abandoning me in the process. If you’re looking for real support following bariatric surgery, using a GLP-1, or just trying to wrap your head around how to fuel your body appropriately. Bariatric re-write is where it’s at.

Nicki Mitchell

Joining the Bariatric Rewrite has been a game changer. You have 24/7 access to community support. These folks know what your going through! There is so much education, support, and just great people. All positive and well worth it!

Colleen Myers

The academy has made such a difference in my life. I started my journey with Bariatric Rewrite last august pre-op. Shenelle guided me through a pre-op diet, supported me when I got my surgery date and helped me navigate the post surgery eating. She continues to be supportive as I continue my struggle as food addiction. The group chat is supportive when you run into different situations related to weight loss or about something about being a food addiction. I’m so grateful for the program and how it had changed my life!

Susan Buck Pickett

The acceptance and judgment free environment while learning to care for myself. they educate and understand. they have this positive energy that makes you feel like you can do anything!

Analu Perez

Even though I have been with The Rewrite program for a few weeks, I made the best choice ever! I have been thinking about going back and forth for a while and I am glad I am here. The amount of support and knowledge I am learning about the food I have been eating and how to be able to control my food addiction is such a powerful experience. It's rough but like Shenelle and Danaye says it gets tough at first but it will get easier!

Shauwan Daniels

I have been with Shenelle and Seda for less than a month and have lost 9 pounds. I love the support and resources provided!

Ashley Dean

I started working with Shenelle and Danaye just three weeks ago, and I've already lost 12 pounds! Shenelle has completely shifted my understanding of food—she breaks down how your body actually processes whole, nutritious foods versus the junk we often consume. It's eye-opening!

What truly sets Shenelle apart is the time and attention she dedicates to each of her clients. She doesn’t just offer advice; she supports us every step of the way, guiding us toward success with honesty and integrity. There’s no sugar-coating, just real talk and practical advice. She makes the tough parts of life and health feel fun and empowering. Raw-dogging life with Shenelle isn’t just a catchphrase—it’s a lifestyle. If you're looking for someone who will give it to you straight and help you thrive, she's the one to work with!

Amanda Caldwell

There isn't enough good to say about this company. I joined the Acadamy in Nov 2023 and I will be a life long member. I have learned so much from Shenelle Coplien; she really motivated me to care about myself and to take back control of my life and health from my addictions. I will never be able to thank her enough. I encourage anyone who is struggling with their health and/or food addictions to take a chance and see what Bariatric Rewrite can teach you.

Darla Meister

I signed up for write academy on the very beginning and it has changed my life . I have learned so many new healthy habits . I would recommend this program to anyone having trouble navigating the bariatric lifestyle . shenelle and seda have changed me forever and sarah gives me great cooking tips please give them a shot they will change your life too!!!

Jessica Newcomb

I joined the Bariatric Rewrite about a month ago. I had surgery 5 years ago and never got to my goal. I was regaining weight pretty quickly until I found Shenelle. In a month I’ve lost over 10 pounds after I was coached and taught how to deal with my food addiction. This community is amazing and keeps me accountable. The only regret I have is I didn’t have this community 5 years ago!

Lauren Mozuch

I don't even know where to begin. The Rewrite has been absolutely life changing for me. I started with them several weeks prior to VSG surgery and started making changes before my pre-op diet. Through this whole journey I have felt armed with information and totally supported. I would recommend the rewrite lifestyle center to anyone struggling before during or after a weight loss journey of any kind. Whether is facing your food addiction or struggling to get in water and protein, or just finding out who you are after weightloss. The rewrite has your back.❤️

Mary Bolen Doyle

I signed with the Bariatric Rewrite 5mo ago thinking I couldn't lose weight. Turns out I just needed the guidance and support I found there. I've learned to deal with my messes up relationship with food and am now down 31lbs!

Billie Burhite

You know when something lands in your lap and it changes your life? That is exactly what Shenelle and The Rewrite did for me! I went from being a very confused bariatric patient to someone who was taught how to live a life without fear and anxiety. I eat a whole foods diet, I have eliminated all artificial sweeteners and I have won the battle with cravings. Well that's kind of a lie... The only thing that I crave are fresh, juicy, crunchy and healthy fruits and vegetables. My food addiction monster is under control and I am winning!

I not only hit my goal of 150 but I have continued to lose and my next goal is 132!

Thank you Shenelle for the giving me the tools to live my new amazing life!!!

Colleen Myers

The academy has made such a difference in my life. I started my journey with Bariatric Rewrite last august pre-op. Shenelle guided me through a pre-op diet, supported me when I got my surgery date and helped me navigate the post surgery eating. She continues to be supportive as I continue my struggle as food addiction. The group chat is supportive when you run into different situations related to weight loss or about something about being a food addiction. I’m so grateful for the program and how it had changed my life!

Sarah Genens

The Rewrite's four-month program has been transformative in my journey to combat food addiction and through bariatric surgery. The program provided invaluable support, practical strategies, and a compassionate environment that truly made a difference.

The coaches are knowledgeable and attentive, guiding me through every step with understanding and encouragement. The structured approach helped me identify triggers, develop healthier habits, and build a strong foundation for my new lifestyle.

I feel empowered and equipped to face my challenges, and I'm incredibly grateful for the support I received. If you’re considering this program, I highly recommend it. It’s a life-changing experience that sets you up for success!

Transforming Wellness, One Step at a Time.

Sign up now to receive a free recording of the workshop and personalized meal plans straight to your inbox. Simply enter your email, and let us help you on your journey to a healthier lifestyle. Plus, enjoy seamless access to valuable resources, all with a single click. Ready to transform your wellness routine? Sign up today!

Hop on our email list and get a copy of our last workshop.

We will also send meal plan and recipe ideas! 

Your information is safe with us. We will not sell or share your data with third parties for promotional or marketing purposes. Additionally, we will not send spam emails or unwanted communications. You can trust that your privacy is our priority.