For some of the population, diet and exercise alone are not enough for them to lose the weight necessary to live a healthier life. These people often turn to surgical remedies such as lap band or bariatric surgery in order to lose the excess weight that may threaten their lives. However, bariatric surgery is not always successful.

The four types of bariatric surgery being used in the United States. These are the adjustable gastric band, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch. All have been meticulously researched and deemed effective in promoting weight loss where other methods have failed.

None of the surgeries cause weight loss directly. Because of this, a high level of commitment is required of the patient. Patients are required to follow a strict diet which is specifically designed for each patient by their bariatric team.

Some of the best practices that result in long-term weight loss after surgery include eating and drinking slowly, favoring high protein foods, drinking plenty of water between meals, and avoiding high sugar and high fat foods. In addition, foods should be tested individually to ascertain their tolerability. Recommended vitamin and mineral supplements should be taken as well.

Patients who fail to follow their physician’s recommendations often suffer side affects and weight loss halts, and some begin to regain weight.

Diabetes, which is a disease often associated with obesity, also plays a factor in the inability to lose weight. For those with insulin dependent diabetes, insulin may stimulate the production of fat and cholesterol. Sodium and water retention often play a role in bariatric patients with diabetes as well.

Complications with the size of the stomach pouch and bands growing into the stomach were also listed as inhibitive towards weight loss.

Once the initial weight loss has taken place and the patient has entered the maintenance phase of their weight loss, it is up to the patient to continue the lifestyle practices to continue or maintain weight loss.

If a bariatric patient begins to regain weight, it is important to return to their bariatric team to investigate, and treat, the causes of the weight gain.

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