Category: Weight loss surgery

Top Gastric Bypass Pros and Cons of Surgery

Gastric Bypass Pros and Cons? Gastric Bypass is a weight loss surgery that has both positive and negative factors associated with it. It is intended to achieve the ulterior goal of shedding weight effectively, especially for those who find it very hard to lose weight “naturally.” But, interestingly, gastric bypass is not only used to shed weight but also to improve other aspects of the body.

Top Gastric Bypass Pros and Cons of Surgery picture of a surgery in process

Obesity can have a terrible effect on an individual as it contributes to joint pains, emotional and psychological distress, and so much more. But with each negative feature, there is a positive side to the lifestyle change.

Gastric Bypass Pros and Cons

For those who have done gastric bypass, the experience may vary both during the operation and after. However, one common factor is that the first 1-2 years after the surgery should be used as an “adjustment” period. So, when you weigh both sides of the operation…what are you up against?

Advantages of Gastric Bypass

Gastric bypass has numerous benefits for the body – both directly and indirectly. One of the major advantages is that you are offered the chance to shed excess weight that may have been harmful to your health. So, aside from losing weight, here are some of the other health benefits of gastric bypass…

Reduce Chances of Heart Attack

Being overweight is a disaster for you as this increases cardiac issues and your chance of getting a heart attack. Not eliminating the fact that slim people can’t get heart failure, but the chances of this happening are relatively low.

With heavy weight and body mass, the heart is placed under immense pressure to allow blood circulation efficiently; thus, the heart is affected by the lack of oxygen and blood. Also, the body is not flexible, which increases the risk of too much pressure. Having a successful gastric bypass surgery will help your cholesterol to lower and your blood circulation to improve.

Gastric Bypass and High Blood Pressure

Numerous activities increase your chances of developing high blood pressure, such as having a diet high in salt or cholesterol. Other conditions that may contribute to a high BP are chronic illnesses like diabetes, kidney problems, or hereditary condition.

Having on some extra pounds could also contribute as your body might be lethargic and does not work out too often. After doing the surgery, your diet will be altered to consume less salt and fat-based foods. Also, circulation will improve, and your stress levels might also be improved.

Pros and Cons of Weight Loss Surgery Video – Report

Gastric Bypass and Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a common thing for many people, especially those who might be obese or have extra pounds than what their age and height required. Many factors cause the condition, and many people are sometimes required to use a CPAP machine while they sleep.

The idea of having your breathing following an irregular pattern of on and off during sleep can be a serious issue and should be treated to avoid further complications. Gastric bypass helps the body to lose extra weight and improve the other areas of the body.

Research has shown that more than 80 percent of people who do the surgery have had their sleep apnea disappear.

Type 2 Diabetes

There are generally two types of diabetes…type 1 and 2…and even though reports show type 2 to be a little milder than type one, it still can cause some serious health conditions.

Based on reports, gastric bypass surgery has shown that it has the ability to eliminate the onset of the disease and rid it from the body. For obese patients, it is more effective and reduces the daily intake of insulin and other medications for up to three years after a successful surgery.

There are many other advantages of gastric bypass surgery for patients to experience aside from those detailed above, but those are the top of the list!

Disadvantages of Gastric Bypass

With every advantage one experiences from a condition, there might be a few negatives or drawbacks associated with it. For those who have done gastric bypass or those desiring to do the operation, here are a few disadvantages you might experience…

Gastric Bypass and Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is more commonly called heartburn, pyrosis, or acid indigestion and is the process by which acidic stomach juice goes back up into the esophagus. The feeling can be quite uncomfortable and comes most times with a burning sensation.

When an individual does gastric bypass, the potential of developing or increasing the levels of acid reflux is in high gear. It may not happen directly following the surgery but can develop a few years later down the line. After all, eating will be severely altered; thus, digestion will also be completely different.  

Chronic Nausea and Vomiting

Having an efficient digestive system is critical in reducing the chances of vomiting from poor digestion and nausea. After doing gastric bypass, the chances of having constant nausea and increased vomiting will become a normal factor you have to deal with.

Eating will be altered and in small quantities for the most part, so, even at points when you might feel hungry, the feeling your stomach sends off might leave you losing your appetite.  

Gastric Bypass Complications – Mayo Clinic Video

Gastric Bypass and Dilation of Esophagus

Gastric Bypass surgery might result in esophageal dilation, which is the process of stretching a narrowed area of the esophagus, more commonly called the swelling tube. Doctors may use various ways to get the procedures done, which will not result in the most comfortable feeling.  

Inability to Eat Certain Foods

This is the part that causes many people to regret doing the procedure in the first place. After gastric bypass surgery, your favorite food may now be rejected as you no longer have an appetite to eat it, and even the smell tends to turn you off.

In reality, seeing your “food bag” or “pouch” is now much smaller, you will eat less, which means a lot of food will have to be left out, and supplements have to be taken in other forms to get certain nutrients.

I can no longer stand Gyros.

Gastric Bypass and Infection

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are common, and many people experience this problem after doing certain surgeries. For gastric bypass, the rate of those who experience these infections is relatively high – up to 15 percent.

Certainly, this may seem like a small amount, but due to the developing complications it comes with, the numbers are high. Besides, SSIs mainly happen when people who are obese do surgeries, and gastric bypass is one such.

Weight Fluctuation

The main goal of gastric bypass is to help the patient lose weight or find a way to stabilize their weight. However, not all patients who do the surgery actually see the intended result as either their weight increases or they don’t lose weight. It might sound strange to many that one can actually gain weight after the surgery, but it is quite possible based on your new diet.

Bear in mind, if you were up to 300 pounds before the surgery and cut down to 200 or 150, you can’t eat the same amount of calories and expect to lose weight. Even though you are eating less, food choice plays an integral role.

You need to really follow your doctor’s instructions, not drink when you eat, balance carbs and protein, as well as watching your portion sizes. This is a TOOL that you will have to actually use and many do not.

Gastric Bypass and Obstruction of Stomach

This is by far one of the most feared complications developed after gastric bypass surgery and one of the reasons many people reconsider doing the operation. Small bowel obstruction (SBO) can become chronic or acute, and if not careful, it can result in a life-threatening issue. It could be a result of an internal hernia.

The bottom line? You need to do your research before any major surgery. Balance the Gastric Bypass Pros and Cons, talk to your surgical team, and make an educated decision.

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Gastric Bypass Complications: What to Look Out For

Gastric Bypass Complications? Gastric bypass is when the stomach is altered to limit the amount of food one intake to aid in one’s weight loss process. However, it has a lot to it that many people may not know, even some people who have gone through the procedure.

What Complications Can Occur After Gastric Bypass Surgery article cover image of surgical tools

It takes lots of research to understand how the process works fully, and to get the best results, medical guidelines should be followed at all costs. There are steps to follow leading up to surgery, during the surgery, and post-surgery as well.

Gastric Bypass Complications: What to Look Out For

There are many questions one asks regarding gastric bypass surgery, and the answers differ based on the source. We have done our research from authentic sources and have some answers and solutions for the most commonly asked questions…

What Percentage of Gastric Bypass Patients Have Complications?

Hundreds of thousands of people perform gastric bypass surgery each year, and the response to it differs for just about everyone. The sad part about it is that many people did the surgery and later develop complications. If you ask us…this is a recipe for disaster.

Whether it is minor or serious, complications after surgery can greatly impact someone’s life going forward. Medical reports indicate that between 10 to 20 percent of people who have had the surgery done needed follow-up consultations with their health professionals to correct some complications.

Bear in mind, it is a technical surgery, and should there be a misstep at any stage of the operation, that could mean trouble for the patient…and factored in are the surgeries that are done across the border. Most of those services are a “one and done” event instead of a relationship built with a surgical team for pre and post-surgery care.

What Complications Can Occur After Gastric Bypass Surgery?

Gastric bypass is done by persons for many different reasons aside from losing weight – meaning, other health benefits. However, with the good sides of the operation, there can be some negative aspects such as developing complications after it is done. Multiple complications can be experienced after the surgery to include…

Gastric Bypass Complications:Infection

This is by far the most common complication for people who have had gastric bypass. Countless people have noted that after their surgery (both short-term and long-term), they notice they feel excruciating pains and do not necessarily know what the cause is.

After further assessment and checks, there is an infection that may have been caused by leakage, either through the staples or the sutures. This leakage problem, if left untreated, can result in further health risks for the person.

The condition is known as Anastomotic Leak and is a condition where digestive juice or digested food leaks through an anastomosis. Leaks occur in people differently and could be caused mainly by the tools or materials used in operation to close the anastomosis.

It could also be due to poor blood flow or poor wound healing – which mainly happens in persons with diabetes or a history of smoking. So how can one tell they could leak? These are the most common symptoms, even though they could be as a result of other health conditions, so it is best to consult your medical practitioner: 

  • Fever
  • Fast heart rate
  • Stomach pain
  • Pain in the left shoulder region
  • Less urine
  • Fluid leaking from an incision site
  • Shortness of breath (could either be rapid breathing or overall breathing problems)  

Gallstones

Developing gallstones is another major complication that may follow after a gastric bypass, even though it mainly occurs in about one-third of obese people who complete the procedure.

Gallstones are a small or relatively large build-up of cholesterol and other matters that form in the gallbladder. A person’s risk of developing gallstones comes when their bodies experience rapid weight loss. To help reduce the chances of gallstones, your doctor may recommend taking bile salts for an average of six months after the surgery or issue a medication called Ursodiol.

Nutritional Deficiency

This is another common complication one may experience after gastric bypass but can be avoided if the recommended doses of vitamins are regularly taken. The nutritional deficiencies mostly experienced are anemia, metabolic bone disease, and osteoporosis.

This complication could be a serious issue, especially for women who decide to have their children before the recommended 18-month waiting period. During this time, a woman’s weight is unstable, and a lack of proper nutrients and rapid weight loss can be detrimental to the health and wellbeing of the developing fetus.

How Do You Know If You Have a Stricture After a Gastric Bypass?

There is still on-going research as to why gastric bypass patients develop a stricture after the procedure. So, what is it? An anastomotic stricture occurs when the connection between the stomach pouch and the small intestine begins to heal.

In the process, the passage gets smaller and makes eating more difficult. A few factors contribute to this happening, such as having a scar; using staples to close the area instead of stitches; poor blood circulation in the area; and sores or ulcers, which might be caused by smoking or consumption of aspirin and NSAIDs medications.

Reports indicate that only about 3 to five percent of bariatric patients experience this complication. There are certain signs and symptoms to look out for after your surgery to determine if you are experiencing stenosis. These include but are not limited to:

  • Trouble swallowing
  • Nausea
  • Problems eating certain types of food
  • Vomiting undigested food right after eating
  • Feeling full in the upper middle abdomen right after eating 

Once you experience any of these symptoms, it is highly recommended that you visit your doctor right away. He or she will do a thorough assessment to make a proper diagnosis. You will go through a testing process known as an upper GI series, which involves using x-rays and contrast dye that you intake.

This process will help determine if you have developed a stricture or the feeling caused by other complications. A stricture can be treated through a process known as endoscopic dilation, which involves using a special balloon to aid in stretching the opening back to its original size. The drawback is, a stricture may not always be treated this way, and you may have to do surgery to get it corrected. 

What Complications Can Occur After Gastric Bypass Surgery picture of an emergency room

There is, however, a good way to have the situation prevented by following your doctor’s strict order on what to eat and when to do so. It is highly recommended you speak with your doctor before taking aspirin or NSAID medication and ensure you avoid smoking at all costs. You can get help in quitting by checking with your doctor or counselor.

When Should You Go To The ER After a Gastric Bypass?

No one desires to head out to the ER after gastric bypass as they hope for a successful surgery, recovery, and life going forward. However, some patients may experience post-surgery complications, and heading to the doctor right away is the best option.

So, what are the signs you should look out for to know when to go? Aside from the other issues like leaking, gallstones, or stricture, as noted above, other issues may arise, which starts with simple abdominal bloating, cramps, and vomiting.

These signs can be an indication of loose stool or diarrhea. This indicates there might be a bowel blockage, and if you experience these feelings for several hours…the ER should be your next stop.

Continued abdominal pains (even if it occurs with breaks) is a serious issue, and if there is limited passing or gas, you could be in the high-risk group as this is potentially life-threatening.

These are only some of the complications one may experience from gastric bypass surgery, and speaking with your healthcare provider can provide more in-depth knowledge. 

As with anything, knowledge is power. Do you homework before ANY major surgery and consult with your surgical team.

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Our Best Gastric Bypass Downside List

Gastric bypass surgeries are the most common bariatric surgical procedures performed nowadays. Bariatric surgical procedures are the term used to refer to weight-loss surgeries. There are more and more people who are choosing to have the procedure to avoid the risks brought by morbid obesity. But what are the Gastric Bypass Downside items to consider?

Gastric Bypass Downside article cover image

There are numerous benefits of getting a gastric bypass surgery. Those who have undergone surgery were expected to lose about 50 to 60% of their weight. Most of the patients would say that they reached the lowest point of their weight two years after their surgery.

In addition to weight loss, gastric bypass surgery could also resolve health issues associated with obesity. They could improve or lessen the risk of Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, sleep apnea, asthma, arthritis, joint pain, and even heart disease and cancer.

Gastric Bypass Downside

Those who have undergone gastric bypass surgical procedures are also exposed to risks and complications, just like in any other surgery. When considering getting this kind of weight-loss procedure, it is not only the benefits that you would have to know but also its risks and dangers.

Pulmonary Embolism is a condition where blood clots developing in the legs, which can get carried off to the lungs. Some techniques can be performed to prevent this kind of situation from happening, like using surgical compression stockings.

Peritonitis is also another condition when the stomach fluid leaks into the abdominal cavity or where the intestine is connected. There is a need to seal the leak before it becomes a severe condition immediately.

Ulcers can develop among patients, 5 to 15 percent of the time.

It could also result in hernia or incision hernia, which is a weakness in the incision. It would often require surgical repair.

There are situations when the stomach moves too fast for the small intestine. This is often referred to as the dumping syndrome. It is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and sweating.

Vitamin and mineral deficiency are also possible complications of the surgery like anemia and vitamin D deficiency.

It could also cause problems in the kidney, like kidney stones.

Gallstones could also be a result of this operation.

Stomach ulcers could also develop, but this could be managed by the usual treatments used for ulcers.

Women who went through the procedure are recommended to avoid pregnancy for at least two years after the surgery. Pregnant women are required to take nutritional supplements like vitamins and minerals to get the proper nutrients for her and the baby.

Gastric bypass surgeries are not for everybody. It is often suggested to those who have a BMI of at least 40, or those who carry more than a hundred extra pounds. Everybody who would be undergoing the procedure would have to take a mental exam, for those who eat due to emotional problems are likely to fail in losing weight.

Gastric bypass surgeries have 2% of fatalities, one percent due to complications, and the other one percent would be brought by the failure of the patients to follow the dietary restrictions following the surgery. Before undergoing the procedure, it is essential to understand these consequences and be prepared to change our lifestyle.

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The Benefits Of Gastric Bypass

Gastric surgery is one of the most common weight-loss surgeries, in the United States alone about 140,000 procedures are conducted yearly. Some people who have undergone surgery would report about 60% of improvement in their body weight. Others would say as much as 80% of weight loss. That is just one of the Benefits Of Gastric Bypass surgery.

Benefits Of Gastric Bypass surgery article cover image

The Benefits Of Gastric Bypass

The effects of the surgery would be most felt after a year, where most patients would report to be at their lowest weight. However, there could still be tendencies that the lost weight may be regained, especially if the dietary and exercise recommendations are not followed. After all, reducing your food intake is not the only way to lose weight and maintain it.

Gastric bypass is a procedure done to address issues of severe obesity. There are associated conditions with obesity like diabetes, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, obstructive sleep apnea, and gastroesophageal reflux disease. There are about 80% of patients with hypertension will be off medication significant time after the surgery. The same goes for 90% of diabetic patients who will not be dependent on insulin.

It could even reduce the patient’s risk of having heart disease and cancer. Because of the weight loss, gastric bypass surgery could help a person improve mobility and flexibility. Gastric bypass surgery could lessen asthma attacks and reducing dependence on medication or inhaler. Arthritis, fatigue, joint pain, and shortness of breath due to physical movements are also reduced by weight loss brought by surgery.

Being extremely overweight could have a significant effect on the bladder and other organs of the body. They get too much pressure increasing stress incontinence. It could also cause hormonal problems, which could lead to infertility. Studies are showing that after undergoing the bypass, 90% of infertility is restored.

Because of the weight loss, some patients claimed that they increased their confidence and well-being is improved. Studies are showing that those who have undergone surgery would usually experience depression and anxiety. Counseling and support would help the individual to recover, and the psychological effects could be lessened or could disappear.

The National Institute of Health said that patients who have undergone bypass showed “dramatic and sustained” improvements in how they live their lives. They were able to go beyond the results of weight loss and improve their overall experience. They have higher self- esteem and higher energy levels after the surgery.

For example, gastric bypass surgeries that have been performed to obese teens were able to improve the quality of life within six months, some studies say. Aside from weight loss, their health improves and starts to become appropriate for their age. They were also able to socialize better and deal with peer pressure.

However, it is essential to understand that aside from the numerous benefits you can get from gastric bypass surgeries, there are also risks just like any other medical intervention or surgery. Morbidly obese patients have higher risks in operations compared with those who are not morbidly obese. It is important to weigh our options before we proceed to any procedure.

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Long Term Weight Loss with Gastric Bypass Surgery

Want to lose weight but afraid to go under the knife? Listen up. Your long-time battle with the bulge will end for good with one solution: gastric bypass surgery. It involves changing the digestive system to change your appetite; that way, you eat and digest less amount of food. Aside from the significant weight loss, the surgery also helps minimize the risk of developing obesity-related diseases. You can have Instant and Long-Term Weight Loss with Gastric Bypass Surgery.

Instant and Long-Term Weight Loss with Gastric Bypass Surgery article cover image

Instant and Long-Term Weight Loss with Gastric Bypass Surgery

Also called the Roux-en-Y surgery, the procedure primarily entails making a walnut-sized pouch at the upper stomach and putting a bypass around a portion of the small intestine and the stomach. Consequently, the food you eat bypasses most of the stomach and restricts the ability of your digestive system to take in calories. Hence, the term bypass surgery. Surgeons perform this operation using a small tube called a laparoscope that creates small incisions in the abdomen.

A small video camera is attached to the instrument. This device enables the surgeon to see the inside of the abdomen. The laparoscopic technique is generally preferred over the traditional open bypass surgery that makes large incisions in the abdomen. Compared to the open bypass surgery, the laparoscopic procedure is less risky and less painful because of the small incisions. Also, it results in a shorter recovery period.

The procedure starts with the stapling of the patient’s stomach at the top of it to seal this area off from the rest of the stomach. As a result, the sealed portion of the pouch will be able to contain only an ounce of food. Separated from the entire stomach, the pouch is then connected to a small part of the small intestine. To be able to achieve that, the surgeon cuts a small part of the small intestine and sews it onto the pouch.

The surgery is not for everyone, though. There are certain risks involved, and a prospective patient must understand them before undergoing surgery. If you plan to experience the weight loss surgery, consult a surgeon and ask all your concerns regarding the procedure. Usually, the surgeon explains the things you should expect during and after the surgery.

Before the surgery, you will be given anesthetics to keep you asleep during the operation. The anesthesia is usually in the form of an intravenous (IV) line or analgesics. During the procedure, the surgeon inserts a tube into your nose down to the top of the stomach. To heal the staple line on the stomach, the tube is joined to a suction machine that empties the stomach pouch after the surgery. The surgery lasts for about two to four hours, but you will need to stay in the hospital for around three to five days for recovery.

Expect some diet and lifestyle changes after the weight loss surgery. One to three days after the procedure, you will not eat anything to allow your stomach to heal. Then, for about three months, you will follow a diet that starts with liquids, progresses to soft and pureed foods, and lastly, to regular foods. You will have to be cautious with your food intake because eating huge meals can cause extreme pain under the breastbone and vomiting.

Also, you will notice some changes in your body and behavior three to six months after the gastric bypass surgery. These include dry skin, hair thinning, fatigue, body pains, and mood swings. These will be your body’s reactions to the quick weight loss resulting from the surgery.

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10 Rules For Weight Loss

Summer is here! Which means things like swimsuit shopping and the temptations of ice cream! Funny how those two things happen at the same time isn’t it? Luckily, summer also means it’s time for farmer’s markets and nice weather to get active. Getting healthy and trying for weight loss can be hard when you are making the switch, but it is so rewarding. It may sound cliche, but it really is a lifestyle. If you are ready to start living a healthy life here are ten tips to help you get started!

10 rules for weight loss

Living a healthy lifestyle is conscious decision. It really is a lifestyle choice! It can be one of the best decisions that you can make for yourself!

10 Rules For Weight Loss

  1. Drink water! And lots of it!

    Water is so good for you! There is a reason your body can’t live without it! Every single one of your body’s systems relies on water. Think about that for a second. And then think about how many glasses of water you had yesterday? Did you have enough to keep your body healthy?The rule of thumb is to drink 8 8oz glasses each day. (You can find out exactly how much water you should be drinking here.) If you are starting slow, start with this one thing! You will be able to tell a difference in your body!Figure out a system that works for you! For me, I have a water bottle that I use. I really like the Tervis Tumbler water bottles (and I love that they have designs for EVERYONE!). They are 24 ounces (and marked on the bottle which is nice!) so I know that by lunch I need to have drank one full bottle and about a third of another. Then by bedtime, it’s the same (1 1/3 bottles!) of water. I can always carry the bottle with me and knowing how much I need to drink by a certain time really helps me meet my goal!

  2. Don’t eat past 7:00 PM.

    You have probably heard the rule about eating late at night. But it’s true! Eating a big dinner and then going to bed doesn’t give your body time to digest let alone burn off those calories! By eating your dinner earlier you give your body time to react to it! If possible, you can even switch to eating a large lunch and a light dinner! This change can really make a big difference!

  3. Move your body – 30 minutes. Each and every day!

    Your body was built to move! I know we are all busy, but you can do it! If you are just starting out and then thought of working out stresses you out, just focus on moving more throughout the day. It will get easier! Use an app on your phone (I like Map My Walk) to track your distance and speed! One of the best motivators is seeing yourself improve!Looking for ways to get more activity in your day? Try sitting on an Gaiam Total Body Balance Ball Kit (75cm) at your desk (bonus: playing your favorite music on Pandora is a sure way to get you bouncing around singing and dancing!) or taking the stairs! Instead of driving to the library, ride your bike! Instead of taking the family to the movies try an activity like geocaching instead!

  4. Eat more natural foods.

    Make the switch from processed foods to natural foods can be intimidating at first, but it is one of the best decisions you can make! Swapping out a sugary cereal in the morning for an egg white omelet and fruit salad will not only keep you full for longer, but you will be nourishing your body with REAL food and tons of vitamins! To make this less intimidating start small. Make it a goal that you are going to switch your dinner to all natural foods for 2 weeks. Once you have it down go ahead and make the switch to include breakfast too.

  5. Learn about portion control. And use it!
    Americans have a huge problems with portion distortion! If you aren’t aware of the proper portion sizes, then you wouldn’t realize that your dinner you ordered at your favorite restaurant the other night was 3 servings of pasta!Learn about the right serving sizes and invest in a Ozeri Pronto Digital Multifunction Kitchen and Food Scale
    Kitchen scales are inexpensive and SUPER important tools!
  6. Protein is your friend!

    This was the hardest rule for me personally to learn: protein is your friend! You should have some sort of protein at every single meal (and snack!) Think about a handful of nuts or seeds for a snack. Add chicken to your salad. Whatever you do, add some protein to your meal! It will help you stay full longer and aid in your weight loss.

    things to do while on a treadmill

  7. Come up with a plan for cravings.

    Cravings are tough stuff! For me, if cupcakes are left unattended, it could be dangerous. And there is no such thing as one chocolate chip cookie! Sometimes it’s good to give into your cravings, but it’s also a good idea to not indulge to often. Come up with a plan before the craving starts so when you get one you have a plan of action!For me that means, when the cupcake craving starts ask yourself if you are really hungry. If so, reach for a healthy snack. If not put your plan into action! I read a book or take the dog for a walk. Usually after a few minutes I’ve forgotten about my craving. Find something that works for you! Maybe it’s calling a friend, working out, playing a game or listening to music.

  8. Don’t give up and don’t give in!

    No one is perfect! Sometimes we give in to temptation, and that’s ok! Having a ‘cheat’ day is encourage by lots of professionals. If you starve yourself or cut out your favorite indulgences completely that can just be asking for a binge. But it’s important to know that if you fall off the wagon with your weight loss say at lunch, don’t have the attitude at dinner that you ‘already messed today up’ so you might as well go all out. Your day isn’t a loss! Even worse is when people give up. One bad day turns into a bad week. And if you have a bad week, they think what is the point? If you fall, get back up! Dust yourself off and go on! You are worth it!

  9. Eat regularly.

    One way to avoid binging unexpectedly and ruin you weight loss plan is to schedule and plan out your meals. And as a bonus, eating regularly is actually healthier for you! Aim to eat several times throughout the day! You may find yourself eating more than you were before! It’s ok!! When you are feeding yourself the right way your body will react the right way! You can have more energy, boost your metabolism and overall feel better! By planning your meals ahead you can save time, money and headaches of figuring out what to eat. And by scheduling your meals you know that you will never be hungry! Your body will thank you!

  10. Find a support system!

    Switching to a healthy lifestyle is something that you should do for yourself. But it can be challenging at first! Having a good support system call really make all of the difference in succeeding! By having the support of a spouse, friend or team you can be held accountable and stay motivated! Join a class at the gym or see if your church or neighborhood has a group that meets to walk together. If there isn’t a group that you can find, start your own!

Making the decision to live a healthy life is the best decision you can make for yourself! It may sound difficult at first, but you can do it!

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Will Gastric Bypass Help PCOS?

Will Gastric Bypass Help PCOS? Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or PCOS is a medical condition in which the ovaries produce an abnormally high amount of androgen. The androgens are male sex hormones that are present in small amounts in women. The term polycystic ovary syndrome refers to the many fluid-filled sacs that are formed in the ovaries. However, some women suffer from PCOS but have not developed any cysts. Some women have cysts, although they are not suffering from this disorder.

will gastric bypass surgery help pcos

Ovulation occurs when a mature egg is released from an ovary in a woman’s body. However, in some cases, not enough hormones are produced in the body so that the women can ovulate. When the ovulation does not happen, several small cysts get developed. These cysts are responsible for producing hormones that are known as androgens. Women with PCOS have high levels of androgens. This little fact causes problems in the menstrual cycle and the majority of the symptoms of PCOS.

What are the primary causes of PCOS?

The exact cause of PCOS is still not known today. But it has been seen by studying several cases that the condition of PCOS may run even in families. It is very common for sisters or even a mother and a daughter to have PCOS.

Are there any risks for PCOS?

Doctors believe that a woman can get PCOS if her mother or sister has it. You may also develop PCOS if you are obese or have insulin resistance.

What are the significant symptoms of PCOS?
  • Missed and irregular periods
  • Ovaries that have cysts
  • Excess body hair
  • Weight gain in the abdomen region
  • Oily skin
hairy woman
How is PCOS treated?

The treatment for PCOS depends on a lot of factors. These include but are not restricted to age, the overall health, and the severity of the symptoms. The type of treatment will also take into consideration whether there are any plans of getting pregnant. The treatment options usually include a change in lifestyle and diet. A healthy diet and regular physical activities can help one lose weight and thereby reduce the symptoms.

Medications are also widely advised by doctors to help the ovaries release the egg regularly. However, these medications have certain risks. They can cause ovarian hyper-stimulation and increases the chance of having twins or triplets. It is to be remembered that there is no set cure for PCOS, but one can manage the symptoms of PCOS. The doctor will work on a definite treatment plan taking into consideration the signs, the lifestyle, the dietary habits, and the risks. Many women need a combination of treatments.

Will Gastric Bypass Help PCOS?

Is surgery needed? How can it help PCOS?

Any doctor would advise diet and lifestyle changes and/or medications to deal with medical conditions like PCOS. However, surgery is also an option, but only if other lines of treatment do not work at all. Women who are suffering from PCOS have thick-shelled ovaries that prevent spontaneous ovulation. Surgery helps to restore ovulation, and the most common types of operations include ovarian drilling, gastric sleeve surgery, and gastric bypass surgery.

The gastric sleeve surgery for PCOS is a safe procedure with low mortality rates and is performed by surgeons across the world, mainly on an outpatient basis. However, the patients who are considered for same-day gastric sleeve surgery for PCOS are usually low-risk patients and where the chances for re-admission for post-operative concerns are pretty low. It has been seen that gastric sleeve surgery has been beneficial for PCOS patients who are looking to lose weight and those who want to augment fertility rates.

baby from pcos treatment

The Roux-en-y bypass surgery is a common and widely performed procedure. It is advantageous in reversing insulin resistance, a significant problem for women suffering from PCOS, even before they have started to lose weight. Many have pointed out this procedure involves a high as the nutrients can be malabsorbed. However, now, this is corrected through nutritional supplements and close monitoring on the nutritional status.

Which form of surgery is better?

It is to be remembered that Gastric Sleeve surgery is a relatively new procedure with very few published studies. Medical experts believe that complications are lower in gastric sleeve surgery procedure is no surgical bypass is involved, and there is no implantation of devices. This procedure is useful, but recent studies have shown that Rny bypass surgery is better for aiding weight loss, improving the sensitivity to insulin and to overcome the complications associated with PCOS. The level of patient satisfaction is higher with women who have undergone the Rny bypass surgery procedure. So the general consensus is that women with PCOS are better off with the Rny surgical procedure. Still, the final decision rests on many factors like goals for the surgery, medical history, the symptoms of PCOS, etc. As always, a talk with your doctor would be a great place to start.

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Will Gastric Bypass Help GERD?

Will Gastric Bypass Help GERD? The majority of the people suffer from a sudden attack of heartburn once in a while, but if you get such attacks 2 – 3 times per week, then that can be a classic case of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (henceforth GERD). The term GERD is often used to describe chronic heartburn. The condition of heartburn is caused when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. The esophagus is a narrow tube that helps to connect the throat with the stomach. There is a valve that separates the esophagus, and the stomach and acid reflux occurs when this valve opens at an inappropriate time.

Will Gastric Bypass Help GERD

Symptoms of GERD

The primary symptoms of acid reflux are a sour taste in the mouth and a burning sensation in the chest region. Heartburn is indeed the primary symptom of GERD, but some people may experience GERD without any heartburn. In these cases, a person may have some other signs of GERD, such as chronic cough, chest pain, or a strange feeling that something is stuck in their throat.

What triggers GERD?

Since the malfunction of the valve causes GERD, it is to be noted that valve malfunction is mainly caused by certain foods such as peppermint and onions. However, there are other potential trigger foods such as coffee, alcohol, tomato-based foods, and chocolate.

acid reflux prescription pills

Will Gastric Bypass Help GERD?

How can it be treated?

The medical condition of GERD is often treated with OTC medicines, changes in the diet and lifestyle, and prescription medicines. In severe cases, the doctor may advise surgery for a full recovery. It is important to note that conditions like GERD should never be ignored. You need to treat the disease as early as possible as the disease can damage the all-important esophagus over time.

Initially, the doctor will advise lifestyle changes such as

  • No eating at least 2 hours before bedtime
  • Quit smoking
  • Lose weight of you are already overweight
  • Wear loose clothes around the waist

How does Gastric Bypass surgery help to treat GERD?

We now know that GERD or Gastroesophageal reflux disease takes place when the stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus. Usually, mild conditions can be treated with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medicines. Unfortunately, some people do not get any relief from medications and/or lifestyle changes. Surgery is the best option for these people. The operation focuses on replacing or merely repairing the valve that is located at the bottom of the esophagus. This valve is medically known as the Lower Esophageal Sphincter or LES. A very weak or damaged LES causes the condition of GERD. If you keep GERD untreated, then it can lead to Barrett’s esophagus, which heightens the risk of esophageal cancer.

surgery for GERD

When should surgery be considered?

If you have severe GERD complications, then surgery is usually recommended. The option of operation is the last resort for everyone. The doctor will first try to manage the condition with diet and lifestyle changes, but if that does not give relief, then the doctor will prescribe medications. If the patient still does not get relief from the symptoms, then surgery is recommended for proper healing. There are several surgical options, and the best approach would be decided by the doctor. However, the two most popular types of gastric surgery procedures are Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Bypass, also known as Roux-en-Y (Rny).

Gastric Sleeve vs. Gastric Bypass

Gastric Sleeve surgery is an excellent procedure, but the general consensus is that it is best suited for patients who do not have a significant history of GERD. In a gastric sleeve procedure, surgeons remove as much as 85% of the stomach. It leaves patients with a stomach with the shape of a sleeve or tube. However, this never alters how food travels to the gut. For many patients, this is the 1st procedure before a full bypass.

Rny Gastric bypass is said to be the most effective form of surgery for treating complicated GERD symptoms. This procedure is generally adopted for patients who have intractable GERD and where standard procedures have failed. In Rny gastric bypass, a small pouch is attached to the intestine so that the stomach can be easily bypassed. The recovery time for this procedure is around four weeks.

doctor in white coat setting behind a desk
Whatever you do, make sure to check with your Doctor(s). They have all the information and can help you figure out which sugery would be best for your own situation.

Which procedure is better?

It is challenging to pinpoint which procedure is better as different patients have different complications. One should work alongside the doctor to understand whether gastric sleeve surgery or gastric bypass surgery works for them. The consensus is that Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery is most useful for GERD as symptoms usually do not recur after such procedures, and the medical condition gets healed by as much 80 to 85%. However, we must re-assert that the final decision should be taken by the patient in consultation with his/her doctor.

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