Dieting through Weight Loss Surgery

Those who are considered morbidly obese have limited options for losing weight quickly. Many have tried various diets throughout their lives, only to experience failure and a growing sense of hopelessness and helplessness.

One common misconception about the morbidly obese is that they brought it upon themselves and could have avoided being overweight if they wanted to. While this theory may sound nice, it is not always true in practice. Certain medical conditions can prevent a person from controlling their weight gain, and environmental factors can also play a role. It is ironic that alcoholics and drug addicts are often treated with more compassion than obese individuals.

Weight loss surgery is a major procedure and should not be taken lightly or without careful consideration. Most people find that weight loss surgery requires a significant lifestyle change before and after the surgery, as well as a lifelong commitment to a new way of eating. Due to the life-altering effects of this surgery, it is recommended for individuals with a BMI greater than 40, which means men who are more than 100 pounds overweight and women who are more than 80 pounds overweight.

Before deciding to undergo this surgery, it is important to carefully evaluate the benefits and risks. The risks associated with weight loss surgery should not be overlooked in the desperation to shed unwanted pounds. Nearly 20% of individuals who have undergone this surgery experience nutritional deficiencies due to insufficient nutrients, which can lead to conditions like osteoporosis as they age. Complications can also arise from the surgery itself. Some individuals may struggle with lifelong issues related to consuming excessive amounts or the wrong types of food, and there are cases where individuals regain the weight they had lost over time. As with anything in life, there are no guarantees when it comes to weight loss surgery.

To determine whether weight loss surgery is right for you, consider the following questions:

- Does my weight significantly hinder my daily activities?
- Does my weight contribute to other health conditions that could be harmful?
- Do I honestly believe that I can take control of my weight on my own?
- Can I commit to the lifelong consequences and follow-up care that will be required?

The problem with most individuals who consider weight loss surgery is that they struggle to regain control of their bodies. The chances of someone who is a good candidate for weight loss surgery successfully losing weight on their own are very slim, as they have likely tried and failed numerous diets.

Only you can determine whether weight loss surgery is a viable option for your weight loss needs. If you decide to explore this option further, be sure to thoroughly discuss the potential consequences with your physician.