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.

One common misconception about the morbidly obese is that they are solely responsible for their weight and could lose it if they wanted to. While this may be true in theory, it is not always the case. Certain medical conditions can make it difficult for individuals to control their weight gain. Additionally, environmental factors can also contribute to weight gain. It is ironic that alcoholics and drug addicts are often treated with more compassion than obese individuals.

Weight loss surgery is a major procedure that should not be taken lightly. It requires significant lifestyle changes before and after the surgery, as well as a lifelong commitment to a new way of eating. Therefore, it is recommended that individuals with a BMI greater than 40 undergo this surgery. This means that men who are more than 100 pounds overweight and women who are 80 or more pounds overweight are suitable candidates.

Before deciding to undergo this surgery, it is important to carefully consider the benefits and risks. The risks associated with this surgery should not be overlooked in desperation to lose weight. Nutritional deficiencies occur in almost 20% of individuals who have undergone this surgery, which can lead to conditions such as osteoporosis. Complications can also arise from the surgery itself. Some individuals may experience lifelong issues related to their food consumption, and there are cases where the weight returns over time. As with any procedure, there are no guarantees when it comes to weight loss surgery.

To determine if this surgery is beneficial for you, ask yourself the following questions:

- Does my weight significantly hinder my daily activities?
- Does my weight cause other health conditions?
- Do I honestly believe I can control my weight on my own?
- Am I willing to commit to the lifelong consequences and follow-up care?

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

Ultimately, only you can decide if weight loss surgery is a viable option for your needs. If you are interested in learning more, be sure to discuss the potential consequences thoroughly with your physician.