Bariatric Surgery – Not the Scary Monster

Bariatric surgery is not the scary monster that I envisioned, but a way to get on the road to a better me.  Many people around me told me to not have the surgery and just try to lose the weight by diet and exercise.  You know, if it was that easy, I would have done so years ago.  I would like to give you more information about bariatric surgery in the hopes that you are not as hesitate  to consider this option.

Obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more.  BMI is a measure of your weight in relation to your height.  Class 1 obesity means a BMI of 30 to 35, Class 2 obesity is a BMI of 35 to 40, and Class 3, or severe obesity, are often hard to treat with diet and exercise alone.

Bariatric surgery is an operation that helps you lose weight by making changes to your digestive system.  Some types of bariatric surgeries make your stomach smaller allowing you to eat and drink less at one time and making you feel fuller sooner.  Other bariatric surgeries also change your small intestine (the part of your body that absorbs calories and nutrients from foods and beverages.

Bariatric surgery may be an option if you have severe obesity and have not been able to lose weight or keep from gaining back any weight you lost using other methods such as lifestyle treatment or medications.  Bariatric surgery also may be an option if you have serious health problems, such as type 2 diabetes or sleep apnea, related to obesity.  Bariatric surgery can improve many of the medical conditions linked to obesity, especially type 2 diabetes.

Bariatric surgery does not replace healthy habits, but may make it easier for you to consume fewer calories and be more physically active.  Choosing healthy foods and beverages before and after the surgery may help you lose more weight and keep it off long term, hence, the BariGirls are available to help you along this journey to loving yourself enough to make better choices.