Perhaps you have been battling obesity most of your life. This is the biggest and most important struggle that millions of people face today. If you want to extend your life and greatly increase its quality, losing some of those extra pounds can be the best thing you can do. Yet, it can be almost impossible and that is why many people are turning to weight reduction surgery. Here are some of the good and bad things you can expect.
Good Things from Weight Loss Surgery - Most people that have a gastric bypass or lap band procedure lose a significant amount of pounds. In fact, it is about the best way to insure that you enjoy long term success. You will not be able to overeat and this is an effective method for exercising portion control and curbing out of control eating.
Lower Diabetes Risk - Lose about ten percent of your overall weight and you will lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by a lot. As more people become obese more are becoming diabetics and being overweight has a lot to do with it. As you weigh less your body becomes less insulin resistant (in many cases) and insulin resistance is the main cause for diabetes later in life.
Lower Blood Pressure - Many overweight individuals have higher blood pressure than normal. This is caused by the extra load that is placed on the heart and circulatory system. Take off 50 pounds or more and you lighten this load and it much easier for your heart to work. This can lower blood pressure so much that hypertension medication is no longer needed.
Self Confidence - If you want to feel much better about the person in the mirror, lose some of those unwanted pounds. You may actually begin to like yourself and this is a great way to start your new life. You can buy smaller clothes and enjoy the latest styles and looks. You may make some new friends and acquaintances also.
The Downside - All things have a good side and a down side and the same is true with bariatric procedures. These surgeries are not minor and if you are morbidly obese you may be dealing with the possibility of serious complications. Of course, it depends on your BMI or body mass index, and your total physical condition.
Not a Cure All - If you are thinking of
weight reduction surgery as a "quick fix" or cure for obesity, you will be disappointed. One can still circumvent the procedure and gain back a lot of body fat. You will need to develop and maintain a healthy lifestyle to enjoy success.
When you have tried it all and you are at your wits end, you may opt for one of the bariatric surgeries that are available. Make sure and discuss the pros and cons with your doctor and be prepared to make some major changes in your life. Weight reduction surgery is an important tool to help you win the battle against obesity, but it must be used properly for long term results.