Monday, September 5, 2016

By Stephen Hill


Obesity is fast becoming one of the biggest health problems in the world. Overweight people are more prone to develop serious conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, high cholesterol, diabetes and some types of cancer. Many overweight people are unable to enjoy activities they used to love. Some overweight people develop psychological problems and may feel trapped in their bodies and will do almost anything to get rid of the excess fat. In New York doctors are assisting many patients in preparing for bariatric weight loss surgery.

No reputable surgeon will agree to perform this type of surgery unless he is absolutely sure that the patient comply with a number of qualifying criteria. The surgery is drastic and extremely invasive and there is a danger that adverse complications can develop. The procedure, if deemed necessary, is normally scheduled for months ahead because the patient needs the time to prepare and achieve the optimum physical condition that will help ensure success.

Many experts agree that the most important, and often also the most difficult preparation that the patient must make is psychological. Patients need to understand that this procedure is not a miracle cure that will allow them to continue their lives as they have always done. They will have to make serious and permanent life style changes. If they are unable to do so no amount of surgical interventions will help.

Patients using nicotine products are at a very high risk of developing blood clots during or after the procedure. Surgeons are loathe to take on patients that have smoked in the period six months before the procedure. Prospective patients will therefore have to stop smoking straight away. They also have to stop using alcohol because alcohol can cause unpredictable fluctuations in the blood sugar level.

Patients are also required to make immediate changes to their diets and they should strive to lose body fat even prior to the operation. They are advised to include protein at every meal and to refrain from drinking any liquids with a meal. Many surgeons will prescribe a very specific diet that is based on the medical history of the patient but it would normally limit sugar intake.

Exercise is also deemed extremely important. Low impact exercises such as swimming, cycling and walking help improve the muscle tone of patients and it increase their flexibility and muscle strength. Exercise also cause the serotonin levels in the brain to rise, leading to feel good emotions. Patients may find it easier to maintain exercise programs if they join groups.

It is also very important to prepare for the few weeks after the operation. Patients should expect discomfort and bruising. They will not be able to consume solid food for at least two weeks and they may find it difficult to walk, bend and perform everyday tasks. If the instructions from the surgeon is followed meticulously, however, things will get back to normal after a few weeks of recuperation.

Overweight people face more than just a host of health problems. Many overweight people have a low self esteem and they may even find it difficult to interact socially. A surgical solution is drastic, but patients that have followed the instructions of their surgeons and that are motivated to remain healthy have reported that the surgery have changed their lives for the better.




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