There are multiple benefits from having bariatric surgery, including looking great, experiencing higher energy levels, and improving your self-confidence. What many are not aware of is how bariatric surgery can drastically improve your heart health.
Reduce Your Risks
No matter what kind of bariatric surgery someone has, studies have shown you can expect significant reductions in your risk for cardiovascular disease, and these types of procedures will also help to lower your risk of the following complications from obesity and diabetes:
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Heart failure
- Atrial fibrillation
- Kidney failure
- Death
One particular study completed by the Cleveland Clinic compared two groups with similar ages and weight. One group had bariatric surgery while the other one was prescribed with standard medications. The group of participants who had surgery lost more than 64 pounds and lowered their blood sugar levels compared with those who did not have surgery. In addition, the surgical group needed less medications for cholesterol, blood pressure, clotting, and insulin.
Type 2 Diabetes Control or Remission
Weight loss surgery can also greatly improve Type 2 diabetes, and in some cases can cure it, which in turn also helps to drastically improve your heart health.
A long term study of 400 patients showed that 62% had no signs of diabetes after bariatric surgery and that they needed less cardiovascular medications to control high blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides. In comparison, only 6-8% of individuals who continued on medications instead of opting for bariatric surgery showed the same or similar results.
Another recent study of 20,000 patients conducted by the Cleveland Clinic found that 84% of individuals who had a particular gastric surgery experienced a complete reversal of Type 2 diabetes. Even prior to the weight loss, they experienced, “Rapid improvement in blood sugar and a reduction or elimination of diabetic medications.” These improvements occurred almost immediately after bariatric surgery.
Should You Consider Bariatric Surgery?
If you are a male with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater, or a woman with a BMI of 35 or greater, and have tried to lose weight with little success, you may want to speak to Advanced Surgeons, P.C. about bariatric surgery.
Bariatric surgery is a safe and effective way to lose weight, drastically improve your heart health, and reduce or cure Type 2 diabetes. If you are overweight and suffer from Type 2 diabetes, make an appointment with Advanced Surgeons, P.C. to find out what type of bariatric surgery may be right for you.
As always, if you have any further questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call (205) 595-8985 or request an appointment online today!