We all know that leading a healthy lifestyle that includes a healthy diet and regular exercise will help us to keep fit and slim. But for some people who are morbidly obese this isn’t enough to avoid the onset of major health problems. In this case sometimes surgery such as a gastric bypass is often the best option.

Obesity can cause all manner of health problems such as diabetes, some forms of cancer and heart disease. By having gastric, or bariatric, surgery you can decrease your chances of suffering from these illnesses hugely. Not only this but if you are getting surgery your life expectancy immediately increases.

Before any bariatric surgery there are certain criteria that have to be in place. A potential patient must have tried a healthy diet, a correct exercise regime and weight loss medication before surgery can be considered. An individual must have a body mass index of 40 or over, or 35 and over if there are other health concerns present to be eligible for surgery.

The actual operation is done under a general anesthetic meaning that the patient will be completely unaware of what is going on during the surgery. The surgeon will divide the stomach in two and rearrange the small intestine so that the stomachs capacity for food is reduced by at least 90%. The operation takes between 1 and 3 hours.

After surgery it is important that the patient is advised on their diet. For the first two days the patient should only sip at clear liquids as the stomach has changed completely in size and shape and needs time to heal. After a few days pureed food is introduced. It is vital that the individual sticks to a high protein and fiber diet with a low sugar and fat intake.

As with any surgery there are risks. Although the majority of people have no problems following surgery there are some people who suffer from a condition called dumping. This occurs when too much sugar is consumed and can lead to an individual feeling anxious and suffering from a very rapid heart beat. It is also possible that further surgery may be required if there have been any complications during the initial surgery.

In order that you lose weight and stay slim you need to do more than sit back and wait for it to happen. Major changes to your diet and lifestyle are required and you might find it difficult to adjust at first. If food has been a huge part of your life you will have to find something to replace it. Replacing it with pleasure at your new healthy lifestyle is a good alternative.

Thank you for reading our Helpnets article on gastric bypass in your search for help with gastric bypass online. Visit Helpnets.com today for all your online help needs.

  Tags: Diet, weight