More people are obese now than ever before. If you have been able to avoid this distinction, then it is quite possible that you know some people who are. Obesity effects more than just looks however. Obesity is defined as a BMI (body mass index) of 30 or more. Morbid obesity is being 100 pounds or more overweight.

Obesity is harmful both medically and psychologically. One of the predominant negative effects of obesity is a reduced self esteem. It is hard being obese especially when living in a society that says being too skinny is what is beautiful. These are some of the psychological effects of obesity, but there are many more serious medical effects.

The common medical effects of obesity are heart disease, high blood pressure, type II diabetes, types of cancer, respiratory problems, sleep apnea, and osteoarthritis. Given all these conditions and complications, it may come as no surprise to know that obesity also reduces life expectancy.

The extra fat carried around by people who suffer from obesity puts a strain on their heart and their breathing. The heart has to work harder just to do its normal job of pumping blood throughout the body. And because obesity causes people to commonly experience breathing difficulties, they are not getting the amount of oxygen their body adequately requires making them even more fatigued and/or depressed. This, in turn, causes them to take more self-destructive measures like over-eating and lacking the energy and drive to exercise.

The types of cancer that obesity increases of the risk of are breast, colon, gallbladder, and uterus in women and prostate and colon cancer in men.

Obesity is the leading causes of preventable death. It is estimated that around 300,000 people die each year because of medical problems caused by obesity. Heart disease is the number one killer of Americans and obesity is one of the leading causes of heart disease.

Being overweight is one of the most common issues faced by both children and adults. Obesity is the result of casual eating habits where one focuses on junk food rather than healthy and nutritious diet that are a rich source of minerals and vitamins.

Initial tipsWeight loss can be achieved in various ways such as dieting or taking surgical measures. Usually, dieting is a long drawn process that requires an individual to monitor his /her dietary intake, watch out for each extra calorie and burn it through strenuous regime of regular exercise. On the other hand, weight loss surgery is a quick way of availing immediate relief from obesity. For those who are suffering from life threatening obesity and suffer from high BMI, weight loss surgery is the best way to get a fit body.

In weight loss surgeries, there are two ways of availing light body that is free from excessive weight such as bariatric surgery and liposuction where fat is removed from the body. In bariatric surgery, the gastrointestinal tract of the patient is modified thereby reducing the nutrient intake while in the process of liposuction, the fat is suctioned from the body.

Liposuction To Shun Extra WeightUsually, liposuction is performed to remove less than five-kilogram fat from human body. In case, one wishes to reduce more weight, one should go for bariatric weight loss surgery where excessive fat is reduced by performing an operation on the gastrointestinal tract of the patient.

In the process of bariatric weight loss surgery, it involves reduction of food intake capacity of stomach while offering a successful mode of weight loss solution based on the principle of malabsorption. In this process, the stomach undergoes resection where the size of stomach is reduced. Other weight loss surgery also involves adjustable gastric silicone band where the size of stomach is condensed.

Once an individual has undergone the bariatric weight loss surgery, one should follow strict diet as prescribed by doctors while avoiding any diet that is rich in carbohydrates such as chips, pasta, breads, pretzels and rice. Again, lactose intake should be strictly avoided as it leads to nausea and diarrhea. One should take diet rich in protein, fresh fruits and vegetables, which help in building stamina and overcoming various fatigue and low blood pressure.

In case one fails to follow the above-mentioned dietary facts, one is bound to face dumping syndrome such as cramps, nausea, faintness, anxiety and abdominal rumbling accompanied by rapid pulse, sweating, hypoglycemia and mild confusion.

So, if you are suffering from obesity and wish to get immediate relief, make sure you go for bariatric weight loss surgery and banding to get rid of excess fat. Bariatric weight loss surgery shows results in quick succession where one looses excess body weight in comparison to dieting and exercising that take months to reduce insignificant weight. Bariatric weight loss surgery is a completely safe medical measure in comparison to liposuction and various other methods of clinical surgery for weight loss. Get the best bariatric weight loss surgery and get free from excessive flab. To know more about bariatric weight loss surgery, check out the Internet and know more about bariatric surgical treatments.

Here's an article I found about one person's experience with a gastric bypass diet. Clearly, the key take away for this is the importance of following your physician's instructions to following this very important diet. Generally speaking, a gastric bypass diet should be very nutritious and filling. With the help of a dietician, it shouldn't be hard to find meal recipes that are delicious, too.

The article for the gastric bypass diet begins now:

Gastric bypass is an extremely radical operation for weight control so I chose to go with the laparoscopic lap banding instead of the gastric bypass for a number of reasons. Both operations achieve the same result. Whichever method you personally choose, a Dietician needs to be involved.

Your Dietician will advise and monitor you on your gastric bypass diet. After you have had a gastric bypass or a lap banding you will be put under the care of a Dietician as part of your back-up team. Your Dietician will have met with you prior to surgery (well, here in Australia where I had mine done at John Flynn Hospital on the Gold Coast they do) and as it is a fairly radical method of weight control, I believe they probably would do anywhere in the world.

My strong suggestion? Listen and follow your Dieticians advice about your gastric bypass or lap banding diet! Follow it precisely and you should have no problems and believe me, you won't feel 'hungry'.

Initially after my surgery, I was given some very weak chicken soup. I had a couple of teaspoons and that was all I wanted. Immediately following the surgery you have to take in minute quantities every couple of hours so you don't become weak or vitamin and mineral deprived. This is important for the first month or so and then everything settles down into a much more regular pattern. It is essential that you don't miss meals and that you do eat the prescribed foods.

As the weeks turned into months and the weight went from the hundred plus kilos into much more acceptable figures (and figure) I worked out my own meals using the Dieticians advice. I found myself wanting lots of protein so I had this magic formula that I used to whip up for lunch of yoghurt, banana, mango and a spoon full of protein powder. It was absolutely yummy and so filling.

I also had my “diet” soup which was made up of green vegetables and it was super filling. I could eat as much of that whenever I wanted. The more I ate of this soup, the faster my weight came off because it takes calories to digest food. I was virtually exercising my stomach to lose weight. Absolutely magic!

After following this lap banding diet for three months I went shopping.

My greatest surprise was finding I could actually wear something from off the 'normal' sizes rack that actually looked nice on me. That was a real incentive to stay with the Dietician's advice.

Laparoscopic lap banding is a simpler and safer procedure than gastric bypass surgery. For more information go to http://www.mumsdomain.com/gastric-bypass now.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jan_Smith
http://EzineArticles.com/?Gastric-Bypass-Diet&id=2880097

Intragastric Balloon Program (GASTRIC BALLOON) combines a scientifically proven method to reduce the sensation of hunger is a simple procedure now being offered in Colombia for $3,500. By an endoscopic procedure a deflated silicone balloon in implanted inside the stomach, where it will remain for six months, and filled with normal saline. The process takes twenty minutes and is conducted while the patient is under a local anesthetic. The balloon in the stomach produces a feeling of satiety that facilitates the reduction of food consumption and weight loss.

The Intra-Gastric Balloon is a simple gastric surgery device, fitted inside the stomach, to create short term & rapid weight loss. It is a soft, expandable, silicone balloon that is placed inside the stomach via a camera that enters through the mouth and into the stomach. Once inserted in the stomach, the empty balloon is filled with sterile saline.

Rapid Short term weight loss to enable surgery

This simple tool allows surgeons the possibility to create a short and rapid period of weight loss for the candidate,this may be necessary to reduce a candidate's weight to a safer level for further obesity surgery and also enable the surgeon to successfully monitor whether the gastric bypass would be suitable for the candidate.

Cure for Type 2 Diabetes

In addition the short term weight loss enables the surgeon to monitor diabetes and its effects to determine the candidate's suitability for the Roux en Y Gastric Bypass and whether the patient might reasonable expect the bypass to cure their diabetes. The Gastric Balloon is a useful and simple device that is easily and quickly fitted without a surgical procedure and can be easily and simply withdrawn from the stomach without the patients suffering much discomfort. This is a temporary restriction placed inside the stomach pouch, which reduces food intake. It is generally used in cases where the candidate has an unusually high BMI, or Type 2 Diabetes in order to reduce the weight of the candidate to a safer level for them to undergo weight loss surgery safely and to cure Type 2 diabetes.

How Does the Intra-Gastric Balloon Work?

The balloon fills a large portion of the stomach, and therefore reduces the capacity of the stomach. This creates a feeling of fullness for the patient and does not allow for overeating, therefore allowing the patient to effectively diet without feeling continuously hungry.

How Is the Intra-Gastric Balloon procedure performed?

A qualified specialist gastroenterologist performs this procedure in conjunction with an anesthetist and trained nursing staff. The balloon is introduced into the stomach through the mouth without the need for surgery. The physician inserts an endoscopic camera (gastroscope) into the stomach. If no abnormalities are observed, the physician proceeds with the placement of the balloon through the mouth and down the esophagus into the stomach.

Once the balloon is inside the stomach, it is filled with sterile saline through a small filling tube attached to the balloon. Once filled, the doctor removes the tube by gently pulling on the external end, leaving the balloon inside the stomach. Placement of the balloon takes approximately take 20 minutes, after which you will be monitored by specialist nursing staff in the recovery bay. As this is a “day-hospital” procedure, you are generally able to be escorted back to your accommodation shortly after balloon insertion.

How Long Is the Gastric Balloon System Used?

The balloon is generally used for six months; My doctor is using a newer balloon and is currently recommending eight months usage. Over time the acidic content of the stomach will weaken the balloon material and cause the balloon to deflate. My doctor is will remove the balloon after 8 months but since he uses the latest balloon with a smaller valve so he has patients that have left it in for over a year and when he did the endoscopy to look for it it was gone; easily digested and eliminated as waste. While you are using the balloon, my doc will prescribe a course of oral medication to reduce your stomach acid (this may reduce the possibility of stomach irritation and damage to the balloon).

What Happens if the Gastric Balloon Deflates Spontaneously?

The surgeon will place a colored dye inside the balloon called Methelyene Blue. This will help you clearly identify early deflation or leakage as it will change the color of your urine. The balloon is small enough that it may pass through the intestines and leave the body naturally, but there have been some cases in which it has had to be removed from the bowel surgically. If you suspect a deflation, you must notify us immediately. My doctor has never had a balloon deflate, but the more time that goes by the easier it is to digest. With the new balloons and their smaller valve we don't see a problem with it getting lodged in the bowels.

How Will the Gastric Balloon Be Removed?

The balloon is removed in the same way it was placed, via the esophagus and mouth. Using an endoscopic camera, the physician will introduce a catheter through the mouth and into the stomach. The balloon will then be punctured and deflated. Once the balloon is deflated it can be grasped and removed.

How Much Weight Will I Lose with the Gastric Balloon System?

It is important for you to understand that the Gastric Balloon System is an aid to weight loss and must be used in conjunction with a diet, exercise and a behavior modification program. Therefore, the amount of weight you lose will depend on how closely you follow your diet. How long you maintain weight loss will depend on how completely you adopt long-term lifestyle changes involving eating behavior and exercise.

What Unpleasant Effects Are Possible with the Gastric Balloon?

It is very likely that the presence of the balloon in the stomach will cause nausea or vomiting for a few days after placement. My doc will prescribe medication to help minimize these potential effects. There exists the possibility that you will lose only a small amount of weight or lose no weight at all while using the balloon. Of course, as stated earlier, your commitment to dietary and behavioral changes is a pivotal factor in the outcome.

There is also the chance that unhealthy, uncontrolled weight loss will occur and create adverse health consequences. My doctor has never encountered anything like this but he is aware of the possibility and will be talking to you about it.

Bob Monte is a gastric balloon user and his personal story can be found here: http://robbielex.web.officelive.com/default.aspx

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Monte
http://EzineArticles.com/?Ive-Lost-120-Pounds-So-Far-With-the-Gastric-Balloon&id=2083444

Gastric bypass surgery is a procedure where the stomach is cut in order to create two sections, as well as a cut made in the small intestine. The small section made from the stomach is then connected to the portion of the small intestine that is connected to the large intestine. The larger section of stomach is then sutured to the intestine so that it can continue to release digestive juices and hormones.

In this way, gastric bypass surgery helps a person lose weight through several mechanisms. Since the smaller stomach section holds about an ounce of food, the person feels full after consuming a small amount of food. Additionally, this process forces the food to bypass the majority of the stomach and upper intestine, which makes it possible for the body to absorb fewer calories. Finally, metabolism is improved by altering the way various hormones are released.

You will notice a difference in dietary needs required by gastric bypass before and after surgery. Before surgery, you may be used to large meals. After surgery, you will need to eat smaller amounts. Since food needs less time to digest, but you may need to eat more frequently. If you continue to eat after feeling full, you will feel discomfort and possibly feel the urge to vomit. Your doctor may also recommend nutritional supplements after the gastric bypass.

You need to consult with your physician to discuss the pros and cons of lifestyle changes you can make by incorporating gastric bypass, before and after the process.

Though this surgery can be uncomfortable and can cause side effects, adhering to a Gastric Bypass diet will greatly help. Gastric Bypass Surgery is not for those individuals who are looking to lose a few pounds; it is major surgery that demands research to understand the process and commitment to see your new body and lifestyle into the future. Gastric Bypass Surgery shrinks your stomach; in fact, it changes the entire composition of your stomach from size to shape; therefore, you must also change your diet. Luckily, specific steps are outlined in a Gastric Bypass diet that will assist you and help you learn how and what to eat.

There are four phases to ease back into a normal eating lifestyle after Gastric Bypass Surgery by adhering to a strict Gastric Bypass diet. The first phase consists of a liquids only diet like juices, water, non-carbonated drinks, and non-fat drinks. The liquid diet lasts for about two days after surgery and then you can move into phase two, which is a semi-liquid diet. Again, all items must be non-fat and can include blended soups or unsweetened apple sauce. The third phase starts about the third week after surgery and includes semi-solid foods like eggs or low-fat cottage cheese. It is important to slowly implement these items and eat them slowly so that you do not shock your system. The last phase is a low-fat solid diet and should be implemented as your new way of everyday eating. Keeping an eye on calorie and fat intake is crucial and making sure you are getting enough protein will help curb your cravings. Phase four can begin about two months after surgery; this is the most important time as you begin to create new habits and move away from old behavior.

Following a Gastric Bypass diet requires a strong commitment and desire to maintain a healthy lifestyle. In order to promote a fast and safe recovery, you must follow the guidelines to a Gastric Bypass diet and ask your Doctor if you have any questions. Though the diet will be the main aid in your physical recovery, it will be just as important to elicit emotional guidance and support as well. By taking things slowly and implementing your new lifestyle gradually you will set yourself up for success in the future.

A gastric balloon is a thin silicone balloon that is flexible and filled with either air or saline solution. It is placed into the stomach deflated through an endoscopic tube and then inflated by an external catheter. With the balloon inflated, it lowers the capacity of the stomach and makes one feel full quickly while eating. This means that smaller portions are eaten, which ultimately leads to loss of weight.

This balloon stays in the stomach for a maximum of six months. The BIB (BioEnterics Intragastric Balloon) is the most popular gastric balloon and widely used in hospitals and clinics. The balloon is removed with a reversed procedure where the balloon is first deflated and then taken out through the endoscope.

The benefits of gastric balloon are:

1. No risky surgery involved
2. Quick procedure and short recovery
3. Can quickly return back to work
4. Improves conditions related to obesity
5. Daily supplements for nutrition are no longer needed

With the gastric balloon, you will only be able to eat small portions. It is important to try to avoid sugary and fat foods as they may make you feel nauseous. Following the procedure, you can typically see a weight loss of 35-40%. It also tends to improve other obesity-related issues such as high blood pressure, sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, stroke and arthritis.

To determine a person’s suitability for the gastric balloon, this procedure must be discussed with a surgeon. This would be the same as for any obesity procedure considered. Many times a gastric balloon is recommended when a patient does not want to have surgery, if the criteria for surgery is not fulfilled or weight needs to be lost before a surgical procedure is performed.

In the beginning of your bariatric diet, you will need to modify your thinking. Gastric bypass surgery is life changing. Not only can you lose drastic amounts of weight, but you will likely gain an entirely new relationship with food. Immediately after the surgery, you will be placed on a clear liquid diet, followed by the addition of other liquids. You will then progress to a pureed diet. At this stage, anything that can be brought to the consistency of applesauce is okay. Soft foods are then added, slowly transitioning to a regular diet. In this recovery period, the most important thing to pay attention to is your level of protein. Your modified digestive system cannot gain adequate levels of protein and supplements will be prescribed.

For bariatric patients, dietary changes are not temporary. The ability to control your diet is what makes gastric bypass successful. The bariatric diet is absolutely crucial. Bariatric surgery creates a stomach pouch that can only hold about 1-1.5 cups of food. Therefore, quality is extremely important. First, you will be focusing on protein. You should include this basic building block in every meal. Then, add fruits and vegetables. To get your daily allowance, it is advised that you eat small meals more frequently throughout the day. Also, drink plenty of water and take quality supplements to ensure long term success.

Gastric bypass surgery actually modifies your natural digestion process, effectively shrinking your stomach and interfering with normal digestion. According to statistics, the 20 percent of patients who experience gastric bypass failure do so because they neglected to follow the diet their doctor recommended. To avoid wasting the time and energy you have invested, the most important thing is to stick with your doctor’s orders. They are critical your health.

Gastric bypass is a surgical procedure that reduces the dimension of the stomach to a small pouch, which allows the individual to experience satiation after consuming drastically smaller portions of food. Therefore, the individual starts to intake lesser calories that enable him or her to lose weight rapidly. For example, the bariatric surgeons take the upper portion of the stomach that either gets stapled or bonded with a plastic band. Furthermore, the stomach is then separated from the rest of its lower portion and is then connected to the lower part of the small intestines. When the upper portion of the stomach becomes full, the individual is forced to stop consuming food. In fact, gastric bypass is the new weight loss trend for people who are morbidly obese or have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater. These people are desperately seeking to lose a copious amount of weight, despite how much would the gastric bypass cost.

What is the cost of gastric bypass and how to obtain money to cover its expenses?

However, many people are willingly to spend extravagant amounts of money to have this procedure performed, especially when their health insurance provider fails to cover the full gastric bypass cost. However, some providers do cover gastric bypass surgery in full or just partially. Unfortunately, multitudes of patients have to appeal their health insurance company’s decision in declining the pre-authorization for this kind of surgery. The appeals are overturned, if the patient’s primary physician and bariatric surgeon have demonstrated medical evidence for this surgery. Gastric bypass cost can be very expensive, depending on where the individual resides, the bariatric surgeon, and the facility where the surgery is performed. In fact, the cost of this surgery is about $20, 000 and up, which has substantially decreased over the years. Financing is available for those who are self-pay patients. Most importantly, gastric bypass cost can be covered for most patients. Individuals who suffer from obesity often seek this as the final option after trying numerous of fad diets and exercise programs, which often fail to produce the desire results of weight loss.