Gastric Bypass Surgery
Gastric bypass surgery is often recommended for overweight and obese people who wish to make a lifestyle change and who have little success trying to lose weight themselves.
Weight loss surgery is not right for everyone, however. To qualify for the surgery you must be an adult under 65 years of age, at least 100 pounds overweight or weigh at least twice your ideal body weight for two years or more. Your body mass index (which takes into account height and weight) needs to be at least 40 or at least 35 if you are experiencing weight-related health problems such as diabetes, sleep apnea or high blood pressure. You must also demonstrate that you have tried to lose weight via conventional methods (e.g., diet and exercise) and have failed.
So, what is gastric bypass surgery? This surgical procedure involves creating a small pouch out of a portion of the stomach and connecting it to the small intestine. This ‘bypasses’ much of the stomach and makes the functional stomach smaller meaning you can ingest smaller portions of food. This results in a reduction of calories consumed and overall weight loss.
Most patients can lose between 50 and 60 percent of their goal weight within the first two years, but there are drawbacks to the surgery. Because part of the small intestine (which is where the nutrients from food are absorbed) is bypassed not only will you absorb fewer calories, but you will absorb fewer nutrients. Avoid dietary deficiencies and feelings of sluggishness by eating a nutritious diet as well as taking vitamin supplements. Occasionally, gastric bypass procedures will increase incidence of diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and constipation. Many times, however, these side effects can be managed through diet.
While gastric bypass surgery helps overweight people shed pounds and become healthier, this surgery is not without risks. Consult a bariatric surgeon to determine whether you are a candidate for weight loss surgery so you can knowingly weigh the risks and the benefits.