10 Mindset Shifts of Successful Bariatric Patients

Mindset shifts make a huge difference on the bariatric journey. Here are some big ones I see from patients with successful stories.

I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside bariatric surgery patients since 2009 when I first passed my boards and became a dietitian. After all these years I can firmly say, mindset shifts before or after bariatric surgery matters.

During this time, I’ve witnessed many patients not only become a healthier person physically but also in their mind and spirit. The journey can be mentally draining, but a few mindset shifts seem to make the difference in patients feeling more at peace and ready to endure the challenges for the long game. 

I share this with encouragement that you won’t get it all right, all the time. But when you put the focus in these places instead of just the scale, the payoff is far bigger than a good weigh-in day! 

One quick note: when I say successful patients, I am not implying that some people succeed and some people fail at surgery. I think it’s a journey and everyone has highs and lows. I use the word because it’s familiar. What I mean with this description is a patient who has transitioned to the post-op way of life for the long game and finding peace in their mind and body regardless of a ‘goal weight.’ 

Here is a list of 10 mindset shifts of “successful”  bariatric patients:

1. They make changes before they have surgery. 

There is a strong pull towards “last supper syndrome” and to enjoy everything possible before surgery. I understand this and some of it can make sense in it’s place. Truth be told, my most successful patients make the mindset shift early that change is hard and inevitable, but the more they practice now the smoother the transition will be. They know these things will be tough, so they jump on it right away.

2. They have a strong support system.

I love asking patients “Who is your biggest cheerleader going through this journey?” When they say “myself” I do love that answer, but I strongly encourage them to think of who they could reach out to for cheerleading when they need it most. We do tend to be hardest on ourselves after all. The mindset shift that we need outside help can be harder for some, but it pays off. We weren’t meant to do this alone. Whether it’s a friend, neighbor, family member or someone at support group I firmly believe that having a great support system can make all the difference.  When your family is not on board, make sure you have someone outside of the family cheering you on.

3. They get to support groups.

Not just because the doctor said “You have to go to at least one” but instead they make it a priority to take the time to get to a group. It’s like “church” for your “post-op soul” (just go with it). You walk away feeling refreshed, encouraged, motivated, and seen. This is why I put so much effort into the Community portion of my Premier Access Membership. Between our discussion boards, monthly activities, and live calls – the purpose is the same. We aren’t doing this alone.

Find out why hundreds of post-ops love being members of Premier Access!

4. They plan out their meals and have a grocery shopping “routine”

They plan their meals, find their style and learn to adapt.

Meal planning is game changing when you find your own style and learn how to adapt as the week goes on. Following a meal plan perfectly doesn’t tend to be realistic, but finding a method that works for you and being able to think on your feet when something helps to change helps you get protein focused meals on the table day-in and day-out. The mindset shift here for bariatric patients is that meal planning has to be perfect or not at all. Nope!

This is why I offer so many different types of meal-planning resources. Some patients like my prewritten menus, some my menu planning tool where they can drag and drop my recipes into a menu, and others like a blank template they can print and fill out in their own handwriting. Find out more about Meal Planning Styles on this blog.

5. They keep their post-op appointments.

Maybe it’s not a mindset shift but it’s more common than you think that patients don’t follow up because either they think they are doing find and they don’t need a follow-up, OR they are off track and don’t want to go weigh in and see the providers.

I get it, in both scenarios. The mindset shift is that those follow-ups are of HIGH value whether you’re on a mountaintop or in a valley and your team is ON your team. They are not grading you. They are not the principal’s office. They want to cheer for you or support you in whatever you need.

6. They try new recipes and keep variety in their diet.

Food fatigue is real, and it can derail your progress. When meal planning feels hard, patients often default to the same simple meals. The mindset shifts to the importance of variety so you can stick with protein and veggies. Tempting foods get MORE tempting when you’re bored with your meals. Successful patients embrace variety by trying new recipes and flavors early. Remember, healthy eating doesn’t mean boring eating!

Hop on my for a free meal plan and get free recipes every week!

7. They focus on what they can have

It’s easy to mourn the foods you’re leaving behind, but attitude is everything. Instead of dwelling on what’s not ideal to eat, my successful patients focus on how amazing they feel.

They zoom out and look at the bigger picture. It’s true – we live in a VERY challenging food environment in this world and sometimes it just plain sucks. It’s okay to have those moments and then try to move forward to what you love most about living in a healthier body.

8. They prioritize sleep.

A consistent sleep schedule isn’t just about feeling rested—it directly impacts weight loss. Poor sleep increases cortisol levels, which can stall progress. Aim for quality rest to support your journey.

9. They find joy outside of food.

What lights you up? Whether it’s gardening, writing, or reconnecting with friends, finding hobbies that don’t revolve around food is a game-changer. Rediscover the things you love and let them fill your life with joy! They also release dopamine which helps you feel more satisfied in life and you look to food less often for satisfaction.

10. They make “long-term” changes the focus of their journey.

Finally, this journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Surgery is an incredible tool, but it’s not magic. My most successful patients make lifestyle changes that they stick with long after the “honeymoon phase.” Quality food and consistency will always be the answer.

You don’t have to do this alone!

Remember, you don’t have to do this alone. Whether you’re just starting or you’re years post-op, these mindset shifts can transform your journey.

If you’re ready to take the next step, check out my Premier Access Membership—it’s packed with tools, resources, and an amazing community of people just like you.

And if your interested in 1:1 coaching, find out what states I can offer telehealth appointments!