If you’re on a weight loss journey, especially as a bariatric patient, understanding the role of metabolism in your body is crucial. Metabolism often seems like a mysterious process, but it’s essentially the engine within your body that burns calories and determines how quickly you lose weight. This blog simplifies the concept of metabolism and […]

Weight management is a critical aspect of health, especially for those who have undergone bariatric surgery or are considering it. However, certain medications prescribed for health conditions, such as depression, diabetes, or hypertension, can cause medication-induced weight changes. Understanding the potential weight-related side effects of these medications is vital for effective weight management. This blog […]

For bariatric patients and those struggling with obesity, the focus is often on weight loss and physical health. However, it’s crucial to recognize the significant impact diet has on mental health. Research indicates that a poor quality diet makes our brains sad, linking unhealthy eating habits to increased risks of depression and anxiety. This blog […]

For bariatric patients and individuals struggling with obesity, Body Mass Index (BMI) is a commonly used tool to assess weight and health status. However, while BMI is widely referenced, understanding body mass index and its limitations, particularly how it fits into the broader picture of health, is essential. This blog will provide a comprehensive overview […]

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). For many, it can lead to severe health complications if not managed properly. However, recent research has highlighted that a patient can delay diabetes with diet and exercise which can result in significantly better long-term health. This blog will […]

In the complex world of health and wellbeing, the relationship between weight gain and depression stands out as particularly intricate and multifaceted. Recent research from the University of Cambridge sheds light on this connection, revealing how changes in mental health, particularly depression, can influence body weight, especially in individuals who are overweight or obese. Understanding […]

Obesity is more than just a matter of excess weight; it’s a complex condition that can trigger a cascade of health problems. Central to many of these issues is the inflammatory response caused by obesity. In this article, we’ll explore how obesity leads to inflammation and the various health implications of this response. Understanding Inflammation […]

In the ever-evolving landscape of medical research, a recent study has found a startling connection between obesity and blood cancer precursors. This finding presents a crucial juncture in our understanding of the intricate relationship between lifestyle choices and severe health conditions. Obesity is thought to create a systemic environment in the body that can promote […]

Losing weight can be a challenging journey, and it’s not just about willpower and discipline. From a physiological standpoint, our bodies are wired to resist weight loss, making the process more complex than it may seem. In this blog, we’ll delve into the science behind why its hard to lose weight and shed light on […]

In today’s fast-paced world, many of us find ourselves struggling with how to lose belly fat. Not only can it affect our self-esteem, but it’s also linked to various health risks. The good news is that with determination, a healthy lifestyle, and the right guidance, you can shed those unwanted pounds around your midsection. In […]

When embarking on a journey to better health and weight loss, it’s essential to understand the various types of body fat that can accumulate in our bodies. Not all fat is created equal, and knowing the differences can help you make informed choices for your well-being. Types of Body Fat 1. Subcutaneous Fat: Subcutaneous fat, […]

Obesity is a global health epidemic that extends far beyond the numbers on a scale or the price of medical treatments. While the financial burden of obesity-related medical expenses is well-documented, it’s crucial to understand that the true cost of obesity encompasses much more than just the bills. It profoundly affects your life expectancy and […]

Imagine a future where you’ve successfully undergone bariatric surgery, embarked on a journey toward a healthier you, and are now setting your sights on a goal – achieving your ideal Body Mass Index (BMI). In this blog, we’ll delve into the importance of understanding your BMI, how it relates to your post-bariatric surgery journey, and […]

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to prioritize work, social life, and countless other commitments over a good night’s sleep. However, what you might not realize is that skimping on sleep can have a significant impact on your waistline. In this blog post, we’ll explore the intriguing connection between sleep deprivation and obesity, shedding light […]

For those who have undergone bariatric surgery with hopes of a transformed life and body, the journey can be as challenging as it is rewarding. It’s a path that requires commitment, change, and resilience. But what happens when it’s harder to achieve weight loss goals than initially expected? It can be disheartening, but it’s important […]

The intertwining of obesity and high cholesterol is a critical issue in the domain of public health. To understand the connection, it is essential to begin with the basics of cholesterol and its role in the body, then explore the types, the side effects of high cholesterol, and how excess weight plays a significant part […]

In the last two decades, the United States has witnessed a troubling surge in obesity-related cardiovascular deaths—a threefold increase that cannot be overlooked. This stark rise, from 2.2 per 100,000 population in 1999 to 6.6 per 100,000 in 2020, uncovers a silent epidemic that’s been growing in the background, as reported by the American Heart […]

Obesity is a growing concern that affects millions of individuals globally. With obesity, comes various health challenges. One such health issue that often goes unnoticed in the shadow of other obesity-related conditions is the formation of gallstones. In this blog, we will delve into what gallstones are, how they form, their potential side effects, and […]

Obesity is a health epidemic that leads to a reduced life span due to the onset of many serious health complications. Obesity accelerates aging, with several studies finding that it shortens an individual’s life expectancy by 10 years. Aside from the development of weight-related comorbidities, such as heart disease and cancers which can lead to […]

Cancer prevention strategies often highlight regular exercise, a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco, and regular medical screenings. Yet, there’s another treatment for cancer that might come as a surprise to many—weight loss surgery. Weight loss surgery procedures, also known as bariatric surgery, are powerful health interventions that may significantly reduce the risk of developing certain types […]

Ozempic and Wegovy are two brand names that have been making waves in the world of diabetes management and weight loss. Although they stem from the same active ingredient, semaglutide, their FDA-approved uses cater to different, yet sometimes overlapping, medical needs. For bariatric patients, these medications could play a role in managing weight and related […]

In the landscape of health concerns, obesity is not merely a challenge of weight management; it is a critical risk factor deeply intertwined with various chronic conditions, diabetes being one of the most complex among them. Understanding how obesity can lead to diabetes is crucial, as patients with obesity are ten times more likely to […]

Weight loss surgery is a life-changing procedure that helps individuals with severe obesity shed excess weight and improve their overall health. While weight loss surgery has numerous health benefits, hypoglycemia after bariatric surgery is a concern that patients should be aware of. In this blog post, we will explore the link between hypoglycemia and post-bariatric […]

For individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery, the holiday season can bring unique challenges when it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. While it’s a time of celebration and indulgence, it’s important for bariatric patients to be mindful of their dietary choices to avoid weight gain over the holidays. We want our patients to find […]

In the field of bariatrics, we talk a lot about “diets.” You have the pre-op liquid diet, the post-op soft foods diet, and your 6+ months, healthy “diet.” Yet, the concept of dieting can be dangerous if taken out of context. After bariatric surgery, our goal is to teach patients how to stop dieting and […]

Obesity has become a global epidemic, affecting millions of people worldwide. Beyond the well-known health risks, such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, obesity-related joint pain can place a strain on bariatric patients life and health. The excess weight puts enormous stress on the joints, resulting in conditions like osteoarthritis and chronic pain.  While lifestyle modifications […]

Maintaining good mental health is crucial for individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery, particularly as they navigate the months following their operation. While tracking weight can be essential for managing physical health, when you excessively weigh yourself after bariatric surgery, it can have a detrimental impact on your mental well-being. Several studies have suggested that […]

Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, has gained significant attention in recent years as a potential solution for individuals struggling with obesity and its associated health risks. Beyond achieving weight loss, there is mounting evidence that suggests a link between weight loss surgery and cardiac health improvement. This blog aims to explore the […]

Emerging research has found a link between obesity and kidney disease, with evidence stating that a high body mass index is one of the most significant risk factors for chronic kidney disease. Obesity increases the risk of developing diabetes and high blood pressure, leading to kidney disease.  Similarly, a higher body mass index will force the kidneys […]

There is a strong correlation between obesity and hypertension. Many studies have linked obesity and essential hypertension, placing patients at an increased risk of long-term health effects.  Essential hypertension is a form of high blood pressure that is a result of lifestyle habits, not a medical condition. Essential hypertension is often caused by obesity and an unhealthy […]

Bariatric surgery has become an increasingly popular and effective solution for individuals struggling with obesity. However, the journey towards weight loss and long-term success after surgery is not without its challenges. Support groups in bariatric surgery success play a crucial role throughout the process, offering patients a network of individuals who can provide emotional support, […]

In many cases, our mood affects what and how we eat. It is normal for intense emotions to make us feel a loss of control when it comes to eating. So it is not surprising that there is a link between depression and weight gain. However, it’s not just caused by environmental mechanisms but also […]

The topic of how to boost mental health has been swirling since the rise of social media. Whether talking about how to manifest your emotions or let go of things that don’t serve us, we can all agree that mental health is essential to finding fulfillment in life. The term “mental health” encompasses our emotional, […]

Ozempic has become an increasingly popular drug and has many people asking if they can use Ozempic for obesity treatment. Ozempic is an injectible medication that’s primary purpose is to help manage blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. Although it is not labeled as a weight loss drug, Ozempic has recently garnered popularity in the […]

A new research study from the University of Copenhagen shows that obesity affects a man’s sperm count, and weight loss can double a man’s sperm quality. One study from the Harvard School of Public Health found that overweight and obese men are more likely to have lower sperm counts and sometimes produce no sperm at all.  Findings on How […]

A weight loss plateau after bariatric surgery is quite common and can be frustrating, especially if you have experienced success thus far on your weight loss journey. You can feel defeated when the number on the scale doesn’t budge despite all the hard work you have put into your health journey.  8 Tips to Overcome […]

Obesity is quickly becoming the most significant health epidemic in the world. Studies have found that obesity shortens life expectancy by up to 10 years. Obesity is the 5th leading cause of death worldwide, with at least 2.8 million people dying due to health complications related to their weight. The sad reality is that the disease of […]

Several years ago, a study analyzed a group of patients and how bariatric surgery improves long term quality of life in type 2 diabetics. STAMPEDE (Surgical Treatment and Medications Potentially Eradicate Diabetes Efficiently) trial is the largest randomized trial with the longest follow-up. The evidence presented found potential benefits of bariatric surgery for patients who have uncontrolled […]

Weight fluctuations after bariatric surgery are more common than many patients are led to initially believe. Weight loss surgery can help patients lose a significant amount of weight; however, it does not come without changing lifestyle habits, including diet and exercise.  Weight fluctuating between +/- 5 to 10 pounds is completely normal and happens to […]

Talking to a loved one about obesity can be a difficult conversation. Obesity affects nearly 42% of the American adult population, so the chances that you know someone who is suffering from this disease is very high. In most cases, your loved one likely knows they are overweight and are aware of the complications of […]

Are you looking for tips for successful weight loss? You’re in the right place! Obesity is an epidemic. Worldwide, the rate of obesity has more than tripled since 1975. In the United States, close to 70% of Americans are overweight or obese. At the current rate, all American adults will be affected by obesity by 2048. The best-proven […]

As a surgeon, husband, and father, I have a very busy schedule. So, I have developed a few weight loss tips for a busy schedule that I use to keep myself healthy.  3 Weight Loss Tips For a Busy Schedule The idea of losing weight may seem so achievable, that is until life gets in […]

Weight loss after bariatric surgery is centered around eating a healthy diet, yet many patients wonder if they should be tracking calories or macros to optimize their journey. Nutrition after bariatric surgery is a key component to achieving long-term weight loss success. With all kinds of diet fads emerging, one of the most fundamental concepts […]

Weight loss surgery is a significant stressor in your life and can lead to addictive behaviors after bariatric surgery. Many bariatric patients suffer, or have suffered, from psychological conditions such as anxiety, depression, loneliness, and difficulty handling the social stresses of being overweight.  Bariatric surgery can reopen past wounds that could derail your long-term success […]

The impact of obesity on your health is substantial. Obesity is quickly becoming the most significant health epidemic in the United States. Obesity is defined as the accumulation of body fat to the point where it becomes detrimental to your health. We know that as an individual’s weight increases, so does the risk of developing […]

Finding confidence after bariatric surgery isn’t hard in the first few months post-operatively. One of the many benefits of bariatric surgery is the confidence you will gain after losing weight. The first few months after surgery are euphoric—the weight is coming off, and you feel much healthier. In many cases, patients will maintain most of […]

Bariatric surgery affects a woman’s menstrual cycle by helping them lose a significant amount of weight and better regulate their hormones and bodily functions. Studies have found that bariatric surgery is the most effective method of treating irregular periods in obese women resulting in a 35% decrease in irregular menstrual cycles.   Bariatric Surgery Affects a Woman’s Menstrual […]

When you need to lose 100+ pounds, getting started on a weight loss plan can be daunting. Most of our patients tell us that the weight gain happened over a period of several years, but it is one triggering event that acts as a “wake-up call” to their health. They might’ve held a little extra […]

With almost half of our society considered obese and roughly 20% in a weight range that would qualify them for weight loss surgery, surgeons and researchers are looking at the various factors that contribute to obesity. We are beginning to focus more attention on treating obesity more as a medical problem and less of a […]

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and obesity are strongly correlated. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition in which an individual has excess fat stored in the liver cells. As the name suggests, this type of fatty liver disease is not caused by excessive alcohol consumption but instead is a result of excess weight. Non-alcoholic […]

Diabetes affects nearly 463 million people worldwide. In America, where the standard American diet consists of high carbohydrate foods, diabetes affects about 10% of the population, with 90% of all cases being type 2 diabetes.  Given the rising trend in the rates of obesity, it appears the incidence of diabetes will continue to rise. Treating […]

The primary goal of diabetes treatment and management is to manage the blood sugar/glucose levels better while avoiding drops in the glucose levels to the degree that the patient develops symptomatic hypoglycemia. Treating diabetes through lifestyle changes is one of the most beneficial and effective ways to lower blood sugar levels, and also results in […]

Medication therapy options for diabetes can range from insulin to amylinomimetic drugs. Medication therapy is a common technique with the primary goal being to keep the blood sugar/glucose levels as close to a normal range as possible (around 100 mg/dl) while avoiding drops in the glucose level to the degree that the patient develops symptomatic […]

Before having weight loss surgery, many patients have found it difficult to lose weight and ultimately keep it off. In fact, many of my patients, pre and post-bariatric surgery, will say that they have done everything; “I’ve gone through all the different weight loss programs. I’ve tried weight loss pills. My doctors have done all […]

Diabetes is a common hormone disorder that affects many overweight and obese individuals. There is a strong correlation between individuals who have a higher body mass index (BMI) and those who develop type 2 diabetes. Here is a breakdown of diabetes for the bariatric patient. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is an endocrine (hormonal) disorder characterized by […]

Getting enough sleep each night is critical to your overall health and impacts many of your bodily functions—including your mood, mental clarity, immune system, and disease risk factor. Furthermore, sleep also plays a vital role in managing your weight as it influences your hormones and metabolism. Research shows that staying up late affects your weight […]

In this blog, we will go into everything you need to know about how to get started and how to stick to a routine so you can experience the long-term benefits of exercise.

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Diabetes is a hormonal condition in which an individual experiences consistently high blood sugar levels. When the glucose levels in the blood are persistently too high, this can ultimately impact the body’s organs and tissues, resulting in long-term damage. In understanding treatment options, we first have to detail the diabetes diagnosis options. Understanding Insulin Diabetes […]

Getting a good night’s rest is an essential aspect of achieving overall wellness. We need quality sleep for optimal health because it serves as the time when the body can heal and repair itself. It also impacts many of your bodily functions—including your mood, mental clarity, immune system, weight, and overall health. The Science of […]

The national obesity problem affects all generations—20 percent of adolescents and 40 percent of adult Americans are obese. In most cases, obesity starts with genetics and is exacerbated by poor diet, little or no exercise, and poor sleep habits. We can tackle obesity, but it won’t happen overnight. Obesity isn’t just about your weight. It’s […]

Despite what you may think, all “healthy” foods are not created equal. The food industry has spent billions of dollars on marketing certain foods that claim to be “healthy”. And unless you are doing your own research on food nutrition and food science, you are likely falling prey to this form of information dissemination. So we […]

PCOS is an endocrine condition in which the female reproductive hormones are off-balance and result in infertility in women of childbearing age. Women who experience PCOS may have irregular periods, high androgen levels, and the frequent development of ovarian cysts. Although it is unclear what exactly causes PCOS, it is believed to be a result of increased […]

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal imbalance that affects 6 to 12% of American women of childbearing age. This common disorder causes the ovaries to enlarge with numerous fluid-filled cysts (follicles) that do not regularly release with ovulation. Although not understood completely, scientists believe that PCOS causes are due to a combination of genetic […]

Polycystic ovarian syndrome, PCOS for short, is an endocrine condition in which the female reproductive hormones are off-balance and result in infertility in women of childbearing age. Women who experience PCOS may have irregular periods, high androgen levels, and the frequent development of ovarian cysts (small fluid-filled sacs within or on the ovaries) and presents […]

Research has shown that subjects given stevia-containing foods or beverages consumed fewer calories throughout the day; therefore weight loss with stevia is attainable. The bottom line is that the only way to lose weight is to create a calorie deficit by eating fewer calories than your body burns for energy. There are many ways to accomplish this, and targeting […]

If you have ever researched bariatric surgery, you have probably heard the term “hiatal hernia.” A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach slides into the chest through a hole in the diaphragm called the hiatus. When this happens, it places the stomach in an unnatural position, causing a range of problems from reflux […]

Hormones are the body’s chemical messengers produced by the endocrine system that regulate every function from breathing to eating and reproducing. In certain cases, an individual’s endocrine system will not function correctly, leading to a hormonal imbalances causing weight gain. When the hormones are out of whack, specifically for those weight-regulating hormones, it can make […]

Within the last decade, we have learned a lot about hormones and how a hormonal imbalance can contribute to obesity. Hormones are chemical messengers made by endocrine glands (glandular organs) in our body that regulate various processes from how we sleep, grow, reproduce, and metabolize food, to name a few. The most commonly known glandular organs […]

There is a common belief that men lose weight faster than women under the same circumstances. And this belief reigns true in most cases. I see this all the time in my practice, where men seemingly have to do very little to lose weight compared to their female counterparts. The weight loss men experience can be […]

The coronavirus, officially known as COVID-19, is a virus that has gotten international attention in the last few months. Since the initial outbreak in Wuhan, China, this virus has spread rapidly across countries, inciting fear in many individuals. But among all the media and news reports, what sources can you trust? And what does this […]

Dietary modifications may be the most direct and obvious way to keep your weight within healthy levels and help control your blood sugar. Yet, there are other techniques to supplement your journey along the way as well. 1. Get Bariatric Surgery We know that obesity is the main risk factor for developing diabetes or elevated […]

The most direct way to impact blood sugar levels is through a healthy diet. Blood sugar or blood glucose is directly affected by the foods that we eat as carbohydrates are readily converted into glucose, entering the bloodstream and becoming blood sugar. Dietary Changes to Lower Blood Sugar It’s important to make the right dietary […]

Have you noticed a spike in your blood sugar levels? Maybe you are under immense stress, or haven’t had the best diet lately, or have been fairly inactive. Even a big, carb-heavy meal will lead to higher blood sugar. So, just because you once registered high blood sugar doesn’t mean you’re immediately at risk of […]

Heart disease is one of the top killers in America. Even though there are heart problems that are a result of genetics, many heart conditions have been linked to poor diets and other unhealthy behaviors such as cigarette smoking and a sedentary lifestyle. Heart Diseases and Conditions There are many different types of heart conditions. […]

If you have been following this blog series, you now know what your metabolism is, the factors that affect it, and how dieting can damage it. There are several biological and physiological factors (gender, age, body composition, genetics) that contribute to the rate at which your body burns calories for fuel and they are typically […]

Metabolism is the process in which your body converts calories into energy, explaining why there is a lot of talk around how dieting affects metabolism. We have all tried dieting in an effort to shed some pounds, but what you may not know is that the constant dieting, caloric restriction, and overtraining are making it […]

We have all heard about the connection between your metabolism and your weight. But do you really understand what that means? In this blog, we are going to dive into the basics of your metabolism and how it affects your weight. Metabolism is defined as the process of converting your calories into energy, otherwise defined […]

Hobbies are a wonderful way to spend your free time while allowing your mind to recharge. Engaging in a fun leisure activity can actually improve your mental health by staving off boredom and helping you avoid bad eating habits. This is why picking up a hobby is highly recommended for people suffering from depression, anxiety, […]

Labor Day marks the end of summer (unofficially) and that means the kids are back in school and vacations are over. With things calming down, you may be reflecting on your summer thinking “where has the time gone?”. If you are anything like the other million Americans, summer has probably derailed your weight loss goals. […]

Hormones are your body’s chemical messengers. They travel throughout your bloodstream to aid in optimal organ functionality. If your hormones are not functioning properly or are at abnormal levels, there can be an imbalance in your body that can cause weight gain, hair loss, infertility, and so much more.  In the first part of this […]

Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate processes in our body and are one factor in causing obesity. The hormones leptin, ghrelin, insulin, sex hormones, and growth hormones all influence our appetite, metabolism, and body fat distribution. People who are obese have certain hormone levels that encourage abnormal metabolism and the accumulation of body fat.  A […]

The thyroid, which is a small butterfly-gland in the front of your neck, regulates your metabolism. The thyroid produces a hormone that is responsible for many bodily functions. Thus, it is imperative to have optimal circulating levels. Yet, an estimated 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease and up to 60% of these people are unaware […]

This week we decided to take a trip to the grocery store to show you guys how to go grocery shopping for weight loss like a pro! We get a lot of questions about what our patients can and can not eat before and after surgery. I am showing you all how to navigate the […]

Diabetes is a condition in which the body is unable to produce insulin properly. This causes excess levels of glucose in the blood. The most common types are type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Maintaining your blood sugars in a safe range may minimize the symptoms you experience. Short-term symptoms of high blood sugar can include frequent thirst […]

There is a strong link between obesity and pregnancy complications which can lead to long-term health concerns for both the mother and the baby. Women who are overweight and looking to become pregnant may be at risk of pregnancy and delivery complications. These complications come when a mother is considered overweight before becoming pregnant. If […]