5 Reasons Lap Band Is Better Than Gastric Bypass

For many people with severe weight problems, the answer may lie in a surgical procedure to help them regain control. But choosing the best type of surgery can be difficult. There are many factors to consider when making a decision between procedures like Lap Band and gastric bypass surgery.

The Lap Band procedure involves the placement of a band device known as a Lap Band around the upper stomach. The band reduces the size of the stomach, thereby limiting the patient's food intake, leading to weight loss.

The gastric bypass procedure involves stapling of the stomach to make it smaller, thus restricting food intake. In addition, the small intestine is rerouted to bypass part of the small intestine, thereby limiting the absorption of nutrients during digestion. The combination of reduced appetite and restricted absorption leads to weight loss.

While both procedures may bring about the desired end result of substantial weight loss, the Lap Band procedure offers several advantages, including these five:

1. Less Invasive. It is typically placed using laparoscopic surgery, which involves small incisions and the use of cameras. Gastric bypass, on the other hand, is usually done as an open surgery, meaning it involves a large incision.
2. Simpler. The procedure is a much simpler surgery than gastric bypass surgery. As such, it typically takes about one hour to perform, whereas gastric bypass can take up to four hours. The procedure can also be performed as an outpatient procedure, whereas gastric bypass requires a two- or three-day hospital stay.
3. More Control. Because the Lap Band device is adjustable, the patient and surgeon maintain more control over the weight loss process than is possible with gastric bypass. The device can be inflated or deflated in response to the weight loss progress and nutritional needs of the patient. The procedure can also be completely reversed.
4. Less Risk. Because the procedure is performed laparoscopically, it is a less risky procedure overall. Following surgery, Lap Band carries less risk of dumping syndrome, in which undigested stomach contents enter the intestines too quickly, causing cramps and nausea.
5. Slow, Steady Weight Loss. With this procedure, there is a slower, steadier weight loss, which is the approach health professionals recommend for long-term success.

The cost of the gastric procedure is comparable to the Lap Band surgery cost. However, with gastric bypass surgery, there could be additional expenses later on, as many people experience a stretching out of the stomach pouch and a regaining of weight. Once they do, many opt for StomaphyX, a secondary procedure especially for those who have gained back the weight following gastric bypass. With Lap Band, no secondary procedure is required.

Many people across the country choose to undergo a bariatric surgery procedure in order to improve their quality of life. Bariatric surgery patients across the nation are able to lose mass quantities of weight, allowing them to lead a healthier and more active lifestyle.

Tips For Fighting Back Against Sugar Addiction For Better Health

Many people may think that sugar addictions only happen to some people, however they are much more common then we think. Americans eat an average of twenty to thirty teaspoons daily of sugar. Sugar also meets many of the criteria for being considered addictive such as compulsively eating it even if you want to stop, and having trouble functioning without it in severe cases. The most important tip for helping any sugar addiction is to keep the foods out of your house. This includes white, brown, maple, and even corn syrup. Another tip is to eat plenty of foods to satisfy your hunger such as fruits, vegetables, and drink plenty of water. If you feel the need for something sweet try to pick healthy foods that already have sugar in them or use a bit of fruit juice to sweeten a drink.

It also may be helpful to take a multivitamin containing Chromium picolinate and l-glutamine. These substances have been known to help some people addicted to sugar to reduce their cravings. Learn different ways to manage stress including walking, swimming, riding a bike, talking to a friend, listening to music, or writing in a journal. This way you can feel better without giving in to the need for a sugar filled treat. Making sure you get plenty of exercise, sleep and sunlight can also help reduce sugar cravings and also make you feel happier as well.

Resisting a sugary snack or treat can be very challenging for many people. However, following these tips and advice can help you learn to need sugar less and enjoy other foods and activities more. This will help you to not only be healthier but happier about yourself and your life in the long run.