ADHD, Neurodivergence, and Bariatric Life with Dr. Karen Stewart

Hi Reader,

Life after bariatric surgery is full of questions, and we’re here to answer them.

This week, Dr. Karen Stewart joins us to learn about the connections between neurodivergency and the bariatric journey. Not only is she a neurodivergent therapist, but a bariatric patient and understands how these two intersect.

In the episode, she offers us strategies for improving executive functioning and a pathway to navigate neurodivergency in every stage of the journey.

Let's dive in.

🎙️ Navigating ADHD, Neurodivergence and Executive Functioning for Bariatric Patients with Dr. Karen Stewart | Ep 262

Did you know that ADHD is more common in the bariatric community?

In this week’s BariNation Podcast, clinical psychologist Dr. Karen Stewart shares her expertise from 20 years in bariatric medicine and her personal journey as a bariatric patient living with ADHD and weight regain.

Together, we explore how neurodivergence shapes our relationship with food and uncover strategies that help the bariatric community not just manage—but thrive.

In This Episode You’ll Learn:

Why ADHD and executive functioning challenges contribute to disordered eating patterns and obesity.
How dopamine-seeking behaviors drive food choices—and what you can do to shift them.
The connection between multitasking, mindfulness, and food regulation.
How perimenopause and hormone replacement therapy affect emotional regulation and decision making in bariatric patients.
Practical, everyday strategies like meal prepping, lowering food expectations, and self-compassion to conserve mental energy and reduce stress.

Key Takeaway:

ADHD and neurodivergence impact far more than focus—they influence eating behaviors, emotional regulation, and weight regain.

With tools like mindfulness, healthy dopamine alternatives, and community support, you can build sustainable habits and thrive after bariatric surgery.

🎧 Tune in now to learn how ADHD intersects with bariatric life—and what you can do about it.

👉 [Listen to the full episode →]

👥 Member Spotlight

Meet Andrea, a long-time Member who credits the connections and learning she has had in the BariNation Support Community to her ongoing succuss!

"I found BariNation two months before my VSG surgery in February 2023 and I was ready to do the work.

I dove head first into therapist-led groups, engaged in thoughtful conversations in peer support groups, and learned from many medical experts available to us.

I am confident that I’ve stayed faithful to my weight loss journey all this time because this community has shaped a NEW ME.

BariNation for LIFE!"

--Andrea Sung

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You got this and we got you.

With Gratitude,
April, Jason, Natalie, and the BariNation Team