Hello, my name is Joyce Daniel. I'm a 49 year old Teachers Support at Tokoroa Intermediate School. In May 2015, I was given the opportunity to have the Gastric Bypass procedure that has since changed my life. I was nervous and scared as hell about what was going to happen to me. When I went for my appointment I weighed 149 kilos- the heaviest I've ever been. Then my weight loss journey began.

Join the Weight Loss Surgery team as we take on the Tongariro Crossing this April. With a varying degree of terrain and the infamous Devil's Staircase, this outing also offers stunning views along of one of New Zealand's most iconic outdoor adventure tracks.

We may be nearing Valentine’s Day but this is a year round story about the people we love and the ways we say I love you.

With the new year comes the traditional new year’s resolutions. A chance to start again, get back on track and begin anew.

We come raring out of the gate and yet usually within the first two weeks we slip up.

“You can’t get to courage without walking through vulnerability” – Brene Brown

When Andrea asked me to write a testimonial she caught me at a weak moment.   I was on a high after accomplishing a huge goal, and the enormity of that commitment struck me later when I realised that baring my soul was well and truly outside my comfort zone.  Talk about vulnerable!   But here goes……

'Tis the season to be jolly, spend time with family and friends, celebrate life's little blessings and of course, eat.

The holiday season and food go hand in hand. Whether Christmas cake, honey-glazed ham, buttery Christmas cookies or turkey and stuffing, holiday eating takes its toll on our health and our waistline. In fact, people tend to gain an average of 3-5 kgs over the Christmas season.

Let’s just start with the bottom line. A return of “old habits” results in the finding of lost weight. The dreaded REGAIN. We all know what “old habits” means when it comes to the world of the weight loss roller coaster. Your “old habits” may be slightly different from his “old habits” or her “old habits,” but the thing all of your “old habits” have in common is a return to unhealthy eating behaviours (and probably a lack of exercise) and ultimately, the inevitable regaining of unwanted pounds.

We have all engaged in mindless eating. This often occurs when we are not really hungry. We just grab something as we pass, snack on something while working, eat while watching TV or a movie.

As I reflect on the past four months of my life, since my bariatric bypass surgery, I knew the decision I made was going to be a life changer.

My first two to three weeks starting with ¼ cup of mashed food per meal to keeping to a restricted nutritious food plan, was what I expected. Keeping up the intake of fluid, I had to make a determined effort to reach the goal of 2 litres per day.

Most us are completely (and happily?) oblivious to many of the factors that influence our decision to eat. Even when we think we are in control of our choices, are we? The following are some of the other factors that can influence our food intake.

We know that it is common for people to often sit for more than eight hours a day. So don’t let that time go to waste!

Everyone knows a friend, family member or colleague who seems to effortlessly control their weight, while you gain a kilo even thinking about a slice of cake.

What is it that these individuals do differently to the rest of us that sees them stay slim with seemingly very little effort?