Introduction

In a candid interview with SELF magazine, social media influencer Remi Bader bravely shared her experience navigating significant weight loss and the toll it took on her mental health. The 30-year-old TikTok star revealed that she underwent a complex bariatric procedure known as a single anastomosis duodenal-ileal bypass with sleeve gastrectomy, describing the ordeal as "truly the scariest time" of her life.

Struggles with Binge Eating Disorder

Remi's journey into weight loss wasn’t one she took lightly. Over the years, she battled binge eating disorder, finding herself trapped in a cycle that negatively impacted her health and overall happiness. “I loved being curvy my whole life; it was who I was,” she expressed. However, health complications forced her to reassess her relationship with her body and her well-being, leading to the decision to pursue weight loss surgery.

Attempts at Weight Loss Medications

Before opting for surgery, she attempted various weight loss medications, including Rybelus, Ozempic, and Mounjaro, all of which came with adverse side effects. “I was throwing up every day from it,” she recounted, emphasizing how difficult it was to find a sustainable solution. Her struggles intensified, prompting her to attend a six-week outpatient eating disorder treatment program, yet the relief was short-lived, and her binge-eating habits resurfaced.

Health Warnings and Decision for Surgery

Eventually, Bader faced stark health warnings from her medical team, including severe pain and high cholesterol, as well as concerns surrounding infertility. These revelations catalyzed her decision to undergo surgery, which she hoped would be a quick fix. Instead, the aftermath of the surgery was much harsher than anticipated. She described her recovery as a "brutal" process filled with intense nausea and a prolonged hospital stay due to severe vomiting.

Emotional Struggles During Recovery

“I was not f—king okay,” Bader admitted, detailing her emotional struggles during recovery, including deep depression. It was a terrifying period that made her feel incredibly isolated. Fortunately, with medical support, an increase in her antidepressant dosage, and therapy, Bader gradually began to heal emotionally and physically.

Reflection on the Journey

Now, as she reflects on her journey more than two years later, Remi Bader expresses a sense of progress but also a complex relationship with her new body. While she’s relieved to be free from some health crises like back pain, her rapid weight loss has left her feeling uncomfortable and uncertain about her identity. “I never wanted to be this size,” she admitted, revealing the emotional confusion that comes with transforming her physical appearance so swiftly while feeling the same on the inside.

Advocacy for Body Positivity

Despite her new shape, Bader remains an advocate for body positivity and size inclusion, voicing her concerns about society's expectations and perceptions of body transformations. “I feel like I’ve been in so many different bodies and so many different situations, why can’t I still be the one advocating?” she said passionately.

Conclusion

Remi’s story is a testament to the challenges of achieving one's health goals and the complex emotions tied to body image. As she continues her path to wellness, she encourages others in similar situations to prioritize their mental health and seek help. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, resources like the Crisis Text Line are available, connecting individuals with certified counselors who can offer support.