Are you around 18 months post-op and suddenly the scale has stopped moving—or worse, started creeping back up? You’re not alone. Many bariatric patients hit a frustrating stall or begin to experience weight regain. The question is: why?

Hi, I’m Shenelle Coplien, and after losing 120 pounds with the gastric sleeve, I’ve helped countless others transition to a Whole Foods diet after weight loss surgery. If you’re feeling stuck, it may not be your willpower—it’s likely what’s on your plate.

Let’s break down the science.

What the Research Says About Weight Regain After Bariatric Surgery

A 2021 study published in Nutrients followed 93 bariatric patients, each 18 months post-op and experiencing some degree of weight regain. Conducted by researchers in Spain, the study aimed to understand how ultra-processed foods impact:

• Weight regain

• Diet quality

• Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms

• Emotional eating patterns

The results were eye-opening. Patients who regularly consumed ultra-processed foods experienced significantly more weight regain, increased bloating, acid reflux, dumping syndrome, and emotional eating. Even more concerning, their diets were notably low in fiber and essential nutrients.

Understanding the Nova Food Classification System

To analyze food quality, researchers used the Nova system, which classifies foods into four tiers:

• Tier 1: Whole foods like fresh tomatoes, meats, and eggs

• Tier 2: Culinary ingredients like salt, sugar, and butter

• Tier 3: Processed foods made by combining foods from tiers 1 and 2 (e.g., homemade marinara)

• Tier 4: Ultra-processed foods loaded with additives and preservatives for long shelf lives

So where do those “bariatric-friendly” snacks like protein shakes, bars, and puddings fall? Squarely in Tier 4.

The Hidden Dangers of “Bariatric-Friendly” Processed Foods

It’s time to talk about the elephant in the room: the bariatric food industry. Social media and big brands constantly market protein shakes, sugar-free puddings, low-carb wraps, and chips as “healthy” for weight loss surgery patients. But here’s the truth:

• These products are ultra-processed and full of gums, fake fiber, and artificial sweeteners

• They fit your macros—but they don’t fuel your health

• They’re designed to be hyper-palatable, triggering cravings and emotional eating

• You can’t recreate them at home—that’s a red flag

Most of these foods are engineered to keep you eating and buying, not healing.

Why You're Still Craving and Stalling

Still wondering why you’re stuck in a stall or spiraling with cravings? It’s likely not your fault—it’s the chemically engineered foods in your diet. The solution isn’t just eating less. It’s about eating better.

At The Rewrite Lifestyle Center, we teach post-op patients how to break free from the processed food trap and embrace a sustainable Whole Foods approach. Need help with this transition? We’ve got a few options:

• Join our Bariatric Rewrite Facebook Group for daily Whole Foods recipes

• Learn about our one-on-one coaching programs to tackle food addiction

• Browse our resource library for practical nutrition tips

Still unsure? Explore this scientific study from ASMBS on the long-term impact of bariatric surgery and nutrition choices.

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!
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.