Benefits of Bariatric Surgery: Transform Health & Well-Being

The weight loss you experience after bariatric surgery can have many benefits to your overall health, as well as your psychological well-being and long-term health goals.

While bariatric surgery doesn’t cure the disease of obesity, the weight loss it helps you achieve has a significant positive impact on many areas of your life.

Read on to learn the different types of bariatric procedures and their potential physical, emotional, and lifestyle benefits.

What is Bariatric Surgery?

There are several types of bariatric surgeries available. Each procedure is designed to alter the digestive tract in ways that reduce how much food you eat and how many calories the body absorbs. Making these changes can significantly help you with weight loss.

Here is a breakdown of the common types of bariatric surgeries:

Gastric bypass: This procedure reduces the stomach’s size and reroutes part of the small intestine to limit food intake and lower calorie absorption.
Sleeve gastrectomy: A portion of the stomach is removed which leaves a smaller, sleeve-shaped structure that feels full after a small amount of food.
Adjustable gastric banding: A band is placed around the upper stomach to create a small pouch to restrict food intake and slow digestion so that it feels full for longer.
Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch: This is a more complex procedure that reduces the stomach size and reroutes the intestine to limit both food intake and nutrient absorption.

The primary purpose of bariatric surgery is to improve health and quality of life for individuals with severe obesity.

Doctors typically recommend it for those with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher or a BMI of 35 or higher who also have serious health conditions such as diabetes or hypertension.

How does bariatric surgery work? Each procedure alters your digestive system to limit food intake or calorie absorption, aiding significant weight loss.

Physical Health Benefits

Bariatric surgery offers a range of physical health benefits, including significantly improving overall well-being and reducing the risk of obesity-related conditions.

Significant weight loss: Many people achieve substantial and sustained weight reduction, which can alleviate health issues linked to obesity, such as joint pain and sleep apnea.
Improved cardiovascular health: Weight loss often leads to better heart health and lowers your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.
Remission of type 2 diabetes: Some people experience significant improvement or even complete remission of type 2 diabetes. However, results vary.

Reduced hypertension: Significant weight loss can lead to lower blood pressure and decrease the strain on the heart, lowering your risk of complications like heart attack.
Decreased risk of certain cancers: Losing weight can lower your likelihood of developing cancers associated with obesity, such as breast, colon, and endometrial cancers.

To support physical recovery and nutrition, bariatric vitamins like bariatric multivitamins are essential. Products like bariatric calcium chews and liquid bariatric vitamin supplements are often recommended to prevent deficiencies.

Psychological and Emotional Benefits

While bariatric surgery can transform physical health, it can also have a profound impact on your emotional well-being and mental health.

Enhanced self-esteem: Achieving weight loss goals often boosts self-confidence and improves body image.
Reduction in depression and anxiety: Many people experience improvements in their mood and a decrease in psychological distress related to obesity, such as feelings of shame or social isolation.
Improved quality of life: Better physical health and increased mobility can lead to greater enjoyment of activities, relationships, and overall life satisfaction.

We do need to note that research on this topic has mixed results. While some people experience more positive emotions, others struggle with low self-esteem, eating disorders, and depression.

Lifestyle and Functional Benefits

The benefits of losing weight after bariatric surgery may also improve various aspects of your daily life and overall functionality.

Increased mobility: Losing weight can make physical activities easier and more enjoyable. Individuals often engage in hobbies, exercise, and everyday tasks more easily.
Enhanced social interactions: Having an improvement in self-image and physical abilities people often participate in more social events and relationships, fostering stronger connections with others.
Better employment opportunities: Some individuals find that weight loss opens doors to new job prospects or career advancements, as improved health and confidence can positively impact workplace performance.

Adding bariatric protein shakes, bariatric protein bars, and bariatric snacks to your diet can make maintaining energy levels and staying on track with nutritional goals much easier.

Long-Term Health Outcomes

The effects of bariatric surgery may also provide you with lasting benefits that significantly improve your long-term health when paired with proper follow-up care.

Extended lifespan: Research indicates that bariatric surgery may increase life expectancy for individuals with severe obesity by reducing the risks of obesity-related diseases.

what are the benefits of bariatric surgery

Sustained weight loss: Many people can maintain substantial weight loss for years after surgery, contributing to overall health and quality of life.
Ongoing monitoring required: Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers are essential for monitoring nutritional intake, addressing any complications, and ensuring long-term success.

Some individuals may wonder, can you have bariatric surgery twice? Revision surgeries are possible in certain circumstances, such as insufficient weight loss or complications from the initial procedure. However, they come with additional risks and considerations.

Considerations and Complementary Efforts:

While we’ve discussed the many benefits of bariatric surgery, it’s important to emphasize that it is not a standalone solution.

Successful weight loss and maintenance after bariatric surgery requires committing to several long-term lifestyle changes. Adopting healthier eating habits and incorporating regular exercise into your routine is important.

Like any surgical procedure, bariatric surgery carries the potential risk of surgical complications. Having bariatric surgery also increases the risk of nutrient deficiencies, which may require lifelong supplementation. These risks require careful consideration beforehand.

It’s also important to ensure you are psychologically ready for the surgery and lifestyle changes. The emotional and mental aspects of surgery and weight loss can be challenging. Many individuals find that support from mental health professionals help navigate these challenges.

Lastly, you’ll need to participate in lifelong medical monitoring and follow-up care. These visits with your medical provider are crucial for ensuring sustained success and addressing any nutritional or health concerns that may arise over time.

Conclusion

Bariatric surgery offers life-changing benefits. Significant weight loss can positively impact not only physical health but also emotional and long-term health.

Understanding these advantages may help you see the transformative potential of these procedures.

While success depends on you adopting healthier habits and ongoing care, the rewards can be profound, making bariatric surgery a valuable option if you are seeking a healthier future.

How Bari Life Can Help

Maximize the benefits of your bariatric surgery with Bari Life’s specialized supplements.

We’ve designed our vitamins, minerals, and meal replacements to meet your unique nutritional needs before and after bariatric surgery. Our products support weight loss, maintaining energy levels, and preventing deficiencies.