You may be considering bariatric surgery as a solution to morbid obesity. In addition to massive weight loss, there are a few important but less-documented benefits of weight loss surgery that I’d like you to be aware of!
Benefit of Weight Loss Surgery
Weight loss surgery is never a quick fix or the easy option. For most of us, a gastric sleeve or gastric bypass is the last remaining viable option for achieving a healthy weight. It is a last resort for we who have failed to lose weight any other way. But weight loss isn’t the only benefit to bariatric surgery. Take a look at these lesser-known benefits of bariatric surgery so that you have the total picture of the health benefits you may reap.
Added Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery
Improved Self-Confidence
Generally when you follow the bariatric eating plan given by your surgeon, you see pounds drop off quickly. This then leads to a renewed sense of self-worth and inner confidence. You begin to believe that what was once a “pipe-dream” now will be a reality. You work toward a reachable goal weight with the support of friends, family and your bariatric surgeon. Not only do you feel physically lighter, you also may feel unburdened mentally and emotionally lighter.
Heart Health
Alongside a heart and vascular care regime, bariatric surgery reduces the risk of obesity-related illnesses such as coronary heart disease, stroke, or heart attack. As you lose weight and begin to exercise and eat a healthier diet, your cholesterol can fall into a healthy range and your blood pressure will decrease. Losing weight and embracing a healthier lifestyle will promote better heart health.
Diabetes Control
It is well known that diabetes is more prominent in people that are obese. Such people rely more heavily on insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. And they are at an increased risk of complications such as kidney disease and nerve damage caused by poorly managed diabetes. With bariatric surgery and the virtually inevitable weight loss, patients with diabetes can find that they need less insulin to stabilize their blood sugar levels or even live comfortably with no insulin at all. Read: Weight Loss Surgery Reverses Diabetes
Joint Health
Aching joints, limited mobility and hip pain are common ailments for obese people. With weight loss surgery, this can often become a thing of the past as your joints are relieved of carrying excess weight around. You may find that your knees don’t throb as you wake every morning. You might walk further without your ankles starting to ache. Maybe you no longer have those niggles in your shoulders. Without joint pain, you’ll be free to embark on physical activities you never thought possible. Read: Link Between Obesity and Joint Pain.
For an obese person the journey to achieving a healthy weight is one of immense highs and crushing lows as our weight fluctuates. But if we stay the course of healthy living, we will reap the many benefits of weight loss surgery.
Living larger than ever,
My Bariatric Life
