Is Gastric Bypass Surgery right for you?

Many factors should be weighed when one considers such an important and yes, sometimes deadly procedure such as Gastric Bypass Surgery. The risk of death is extremely low, but it has happened. The procedure is getting safer almost daily with improved knowledge and operational techniques. As well, many doctors are now specializing in the surgery, so their skill is considerably high.

So, is it right for you? The main reason for undergoing Gastric Byass Surgery is to induce weight loss. This is accomlished in the procedure by removing the lower intestine from the equation. A cut is made before the large intestine reaches the lower intestine, and then another before the bowel. The lower intestine is then taken 'out of the loop'. This surgery results in the patient having a very, very small area in which to store food, for body absorption. the average is about 4 ounces. What effect this has on the body seems quite straight forward, less food, less calories. however, an amazing thing happens to almost 100% of patients who have this surgery. They report that their craving for their favourite foods is entirely gone! That's right, they no longer need sweets, or fast food or any other fatty foods that made them fat in the first place. Researchers still aren't sure why this happens. many studies are underway to determine is an enzyme in the lower intenstine is the one that triggers these irrational eating behaviours, and removing the lower intestine, removes the behaviuours, or cravings.