By Laura M. Gilbert | Alvarado Hospital
A common misconception is that bariatric surgery is a “cop-out” — and those affected by obesity just need to go on a diet and exercise program.
However, more than 20 years of medical research has proven the genetic basis of obesity, and that it is nearly impossible for those with severe obesity to maintain weight loss by any means other than surgery.
“There are many additional benefits,” said Alvarado Hospital’s Dr. Julie Ellner. “A common side effect to the gastric bypass procedure is the reduction or elimination of Type 2 diabetes. The gastric bypass procedure reduces the amount of nutrients absorbed by the small intestine, which appears to have a rapid and beneficial effect on diabetes.”
Dr. Ellner, who is the medical director of Alvarado’s Surgical Weight-Loss Program, added that according to the American Society for Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery, cancer mortality can be reduced by 60 percent for those who undergo bariatric surgery. The group also reports that death in association with diabetes is reduced by more than 90 percent and from heart disease by more than 50 percent.
If you have decided to get serious about weight loss and want to learn more about your surgical weight loss and insurance/payment options, join Dr. Ellner for dinner at the popular farm-to-table Terra American Bistro on Jan. 26 at 6 p.m. for a three-course dinner and discussion on the Lap-Band, gastric sleeve and gastric bypass. The cost is $10 per person and includes dinner, discussion and a raffle.
Registration is required to attend the dinner by calling 800-258-2723 or register online at AlvaradoHospital.com. Terra Bistro is located 7091 El Cajon Blvd. in La Mesa.
