Things to Consider if you are thinking about Gastric Bypass Surgery

Should I consider having a Gastric Bypass?

Weight loss surgery is not specifically designed for everyone. Doctors generally tend to only recommend it to people who; have a BMI of 40 or more which is around 100 pounds overweight for men and 80 for women, have a lower BMI of around 35 but suffer from serious health problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol or severe sleep apnoea, have tried and have been unsuccessful losing weight through non-surgical means, fully understand the risks associated with a Gastric Bypass and are motivated.

How will a Gastric Bypass help me lose weight?

Gastric Bypass surgery works by changing the way in which your digestive system absorbs food. This type of weight loss surgery is complicated as the surgeon removes part of the intestine, creating a new short-cut for food to be digested. This means that fewer calories can be absorbed by the body.

What are the positives to Gastric Bypass surgery?

Due to the instant change in the digestive system, weight loss from a Gastric Bypass is quick and dramatic. People lose on average 38% of their excess body weight in the first year, increasing to 62% in the second year. As the weight loss is so quick, any weight related health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure and sleep apnoea improve quickly.

The loss of stomach tissue results in a drop in the appetite controlling hormone, Ghrelin. Due to this, most people keep their weight loss off for 10 years or longer. After 10 years, average weight loss is 25%.

Are there any side effects to Gastric Bypass surgery?

Gastric Bypass surgery tends to be riskier than other weight loss surgery as it is associated with more complications. Although surgery is generally safe, 10% of people suffer minor complications, less than 5% have serious complications and the risk of death is under 1%.

The most common side effect is dumping syndrome which occurs when food moves too quickly around the stomach and intestines. This can cause shaking, sweating, dizziness, nausea and diarrhoea.

Are there any dietary restrictions following Gastric Bypass surgery?

After surgery, you will need to follow specific eating guidelines as provided by your practitioner. Registered dieticians work directly with Gastric Bypass patients to provide dietary education before and after surgery.