Gastric Sleeve VS Duodenal Switch Surgery

dreamstime_xxl_12562577

Here at Weight Zen, Dr. Rosen works with hundreds of patients looking to get their lives back. Are you exhausted by fad diets and exercise routines that simply don’t work? Dr. Rosen helps individuals who suffer from obesity and similar issues through bariatric surgery in New York. We offer such bariatric surgery options as Gastric Bypass, Gastric Sleeve, the Lap-Band, Duodenal Switch, and the Orbera Gastric Balloon.

Today, we’re going to take a specific look at the difference between the Gastric Sleeve and Duodenal Switch surgical procedures for weight loss.

What Is The Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Simply put, Gastric Sleeve surgery is a type of bariatric surgery intended to help those with their weight loss efforts. During the procedure, the size of the stomach is dramatically reduced, meaning that the patient becomes full sooner when eating and thus eats fewer calories overall.

What Is The Duodenal Switch Surgery?

The Duodenal Switch surgery, also known as a biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD-DS), reduces the size of your stomach by up to 70 percent. Additionally, this weight loss surgery reroutes part of your small intestine to create two different pathways from your stomach: one brings in food from your stomach to a common channel of your small intestine, and the other helps carry bile to the same common channel from your liver. This helps to prevent your body from absorbing calories from the food you eat (part of the digestive process).

Two Different Mechanisms For Weight Loss

As you may have noticed, these weight loss surgeries offer two different types of weight loss mechanisms: malabsorptive and restrictive.

Malabsorptive bariatric surgery limits the amount of calories your body absorbs during the digestive process, whereas restrictive bariatric surgery limits the amount of calories you can consume while reducing the sensation of hunger.

Gastric Sleeve surgery is a clear, restrictive weight loss procedure, while the Duodenal Switch combines restrictive and malabsorptive mechanisms within the surgery.

Advantages Of The Gastric Sleeve Surgery

This is a far less complicated surgery compared to the Duodenal Switch weight loss surgery as it only requires a change in the overall size of your stomach rather than a total rerouting part of your small intestine. Not only does the Gastric Sleeve surgery help with weight loss efforts, but it is also low-risk with regard to post-surgical complications.

Advantages Of The Duodenal Switch

The Duodenal Switch is much more complicated than the Gastric Sleeve surgery and has increased risks. However, the Duodenal Switch has been proven to be successful at helping patients lose more excess body mass and weight. This is due to the fact that this procedure incorporates both malabsorptive and restrictive weight loss.

The Duodenal Switch Can Be Used After A Gastric Sleeve

If you aren’t seeing the results you and your doctor want from the Gastric Sleeve surgery, the sleeve is able to be transformed into a duodenal switch to help with weight loss efforts.

Contact Weight Zen Today To Discuss Bariatric Surgery Options

It’s okay if you’re not sure which bariatric surgery is right for you. Contact Weight Zen today to schedule a consultation with us. We will be able to assess your situation and make recommendations based on our years of experience and expertise.

/by

Can Bariatric Surgery Help Diabetes?

There’s a huge misconception that people still need to take their insulin and other obesity medications after they’ve undergone bariatric surgery in New York. However, there’s actually a good chance that you’ll be able to ditch those pill bottles (after speaking with your doctor, of course) because along with reducing weight, bariatric surgery can actually help change your body’s chemistry. In fact, after gastric bypass surgery, 80 percent of patients with diabetes go into remission, and that means no more medication.

Many Diabetics Can Stop Taking Medication After Bariatric Surgery

One of the biggest benefits of bariatric surgery isn’t just weight loss; Type 2 diabetes is also significantly improved in most people. How does this happen? What changes in your body?

Bariatric Surgery Causes Your Hormones To Go Up And Down After Surgery

During two of the most common forms of bariatric surgery in New York, either part of the stomach is removed or the digestive tract is rearranged. This alters the amount of hormones released by your gut.

GLP-1

GLP-1 is a hormone produced in your intestines and normally spikes right after you’ve had a meal. What is it’s purpose? To help insulin move glucose out of your bloodstream and into your cells. However, in those who are obese, GLP-1 doesn’t spike like it is supposed to after you eat. After bariatric surgery, your GLP-1 levels go up dramatically following a meal, meaning more help for insulin and glucose regulation. A lot of people are able to come off their diabetes medication right after surgery, even before weight loss occurs. In fact, the American Diabetes Association recommends bariatric surgery as a top choice treatment for people who have a BMI higher than 35.

Do you suffer from obesity? Do you need help gaining control of your weight again? Call Weight Zen today and see how we can help you get a new lease on life: 212.203.2146.

/by

Shedding Light On More Bariatric Surgery Misconceptions

In our last several blogs, we’ve been tackling some pretty big misconceptions surrounding bariatric surgery in New York. Unfortunately, these misconceptions prevent many from getting the weight loss help they need because they take them for truth. Today, in our last series of articles about this topic, we’re shedding some light on a couple more important misconceptions that need to be banished.

Bariatric Surgery Misconceptions Versus Truth

Misconception: Bariatric surgery is risky, and recovery can take a long time.

Fact: For most people, the risks associated with bariatric surgery are very low, much like having your gallbladder removed. Honestly, it can be riskier for some patients to not have the surgery. You’re much more likely to die from stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and even some types of cancer if you stay morbidly obese. As for the recovery, it’s usually brief. You may spend the night or two in the hospital and can usually eat solid foods within two weeks after a liquid diet.

Misconception: You can’t get pregnant if you’ve had bariatric surgery.

Fact: While we suggest that patients wait at least a year before trying to conceive after they’ve had bariatric surgery, having the surgery will not affect your ability to get pregnant, carry your child, or give birth. Truth be told, losing weight is an important step toward conceiving, since obesity can contribute to infertility in both men and women.  Losing weight often has a direct impact of fertility.

The bottom line here is that bariatric surgery changes more than your body, it reduces your risks of serious diseases and betters your quality of living. Bariatric surgery can give you a new lease on life. Contact us today to see how we can help you.

/by

Debunking More Common Bariatric Surgery Misconceptions

In our last couple blogs, we’ve been tackling some common misconceptions surrounding bariatric surgery in New York as we separate fact from fiction once and for all. Obesity is a real disease and a growing epidemic in our country. As we debunk some of these widely-believed misconceptions, we hope that we shed light on a possible treatment option for one of our readers and that they will reach out to us for a consultation.

More Misconceptions About Bariatric Surgery Debunked

Misconception: You are going to need plastic surgery after bariatric surgery.

Fact: The truth of the matter is that 99.9 percent of weight loss surgery is performed through laparoscopy, meaning that you will have no big scars requiring plastic surgery. Moreover, not everyone who has bariatric surgery ends up with large amounts of excess skin. In fact, less than half of the patients who undergo bariatric surgery need skin removal surgery.

Misconception: You can be too large or heavy for bariatric surgery.

Fact: Patients who have higher BMIs normally also have comorbidities, two or more diseases at the same time, and these can make the bariatric surgery riskier. The most significant risks are lung disease and cardiovascular disease. However, surgery is still possible, and you should speak to your bariatric surgeon at Weight Zen to see what your options are.

Bariatric surgery is surrounded by a lot of misconceptions, but we’re working diligently to chip away at these myths so that more people can get the help they deserve. Call us today!

/by

Separating Fact From Fiction With More Bariatric Surgery Myths

In our last blog, we began tackling some of the biggest misconceptions concerning bariatric surgery in New York. Unfortunately, these misconceptions stop people from pursuing viable obesity treatment options and surgeries, such as gastric bypass, the Orbera gastric balloon, and many more.

More Common Misconceptions Surrounding Bariatric Surgery

We’re back today to separate fact from fiction with some more bariatric surgery misconceptions.

Misconception: Bariatric surgery is a waste because you’ll just gain all the weight back.

Fact: Actually, there have been numerous research studies to prove that not only do bariatric surgery patients lose more weight than those who simply diet and exercise, but they tend to keep it off, too.

Misconception: Bariatric surgery won’t be covered by your insurance because it’s considered cosmetic.

Fact: While extreme weight loss will absolutely transform your appearance for the better, the most crucial and important benefits are not cosmetic. You will look better, but our goal is to help you live longer, feel better, and lead a more healthy, active lifestyle. In fact, most insurance companies follow the guidelines set by the National Institute of Health (NIH) for bariatric surgery to determine coverage. When you have other health conditions aggravated by obesity, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, your chances of having your bariatric surgery covered by insurance increase.

Here at Weight Zen, we look at bariatric surgery as a tool, not a magic bullet; it’s a part of your weight loss journey. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let us help you get your life back.

/by

Your Bariatric Surgeon Separates Fact From Fiction

Obesity is a rising epidemic in American society. It is a serious disease, defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or above, and is linked to health issues such as cardiovascular problems, diabetes, and premature death.

Bariatric surgery is one way to combat obesity. Unfortunately, myths and misconceptions about effective bariatric surgeries in New York such as Lap-Band, gastric bypass, and sleeve gastrectomy prevent many people from pursuing these options. Today, we’re here to clear up some of these misconceptions surrounding bariatric surgery.

Common Misconceptions About Bariatric Surgery

Misconception: All bariatric surgeries are the same.

Fact: Just like there are no two people exactly alike, every operation we perform at Weight Zen is different and tailored to the specific needs of the patient. 

Misconception: Surgery is taking the easy way out. You only need willpower and a good diet and exercise regimen.

Fact: Most patients who come to see our bariatric surgeon in New York have already tried diets, exercise, medications, and just about everything else they could think of for years without any success. Diet and exercise can work for someone who is 20 to 30 pounds overweight, but once you reach the threshold of being 50 or 60 or more pounds overweight, failure rates for weight control through diet and exercise reach nearly 90 percent. Why? Losing 50 pounds and keeping it off requires an intense commitment to diet and exercise that very few people are able to maintain. Bariatric surgery makes extreme weight loss more realistic and achievable by stopping food cravings in their tracks.

Are you struggling to control your weight? Are you tired of fad diets that don’t work? Contact Weight Zen today and set up a consultation to see how we can help you.

/by

Protein Shakes After Bariatric Surgery

If you read our post on what to expect diet-wise after bariatric surgery, you’ll know that immediately following surgery, you will be on phase 1: protein shakes for two (2) weeks.  To start, we want to explain why is protein so important.  Protein is beneficial for healing (really important after surgery) and it’s critical for cell repair and satiety (also really important!).  If you aren’t getting enough protein, it can make healing harder and longer, but it can also make you feel weak.

post bariatric surgery diet

Many of our clients ask how to keep things interesting…keep reading for our tips on maximizing protein shakes after bariatric surgery.

  1. Decide if you are going to make your own or purchase pre-made shakes.
    • For some people, the ease of pre-made shakes cannot be beat.  But for others, being able to customize their drinks is key. Do what will work for you.
  2. If you are making your own shakes, purchase multiple protein powders.
    • You might remember this post about our favorite protein powders?  Stock up!
    • The more variety you have, the better. Two weeks of vanilla shakes will be boring.
  3. Break out your blender.
    • The more mixed your shakes are, the better they will taste.
    • If you like yours extra frothy, add some ice and blend very well.
    • If you don’t have a blender, consider purchasing a blender bottle.
      • This will help to blend and incorporate the liquid and powder.
  4. If you are purchasing pre-made shakes, buy multiple flavors.
    • It’s hard to know what will appeal to you after surgery, and you want to be prepared.
  5. Drink the shakes cold.
    • In our experience, cold protein drinks always better.
    • Refrigerate or add ice to keep them chilled.
  6. Be sure you are staying hydrated between shakes.
    • Dehydration is never a good thing.  Be sure you are drinking throughout the day to meet your water goals.
    • The hydration you get from the protein shakes should not be your only liquid intake.  Water, water, water!
  7. Take it slow.
    • Try not to gulp down your shake, eating slowly will be important from now on
  8. Use almond milk.
    • Unsweetened almond milk (a few options here and here) is a great alternative to water.
    • Almond milk is creamy and imparts a very slight almond taste.
    • Many varieties are offered in unsweetened plain or unsweetened vanilla.

What’s your favorite way to drink protein shakes? We’d love to hear from you! Share in the comments below…

/0 Comments/by

Post Bariatric Surgery Diet

If you’re considering bariatric surgery, or if you’ve just had surgery, you might be curious about what your diet will look like in the weeks immediately following the procedure.  It’s important to understand that you will not be able to return to your “normal” eating habits right after surgery.  Following the modified post bariatric surgery diet will help your body to heal and recover, and will also keep you feeling full and satisfied.  Remember: with any of the phases (and after this initial six week period), it’s important to stay hydrated! Water is key – but you must drink between meals – we do not recommend eating and drinking at the same time.  You’ll need to pay extra attention to your hunger and thirst cues!

Keep reading for our post bariatric surgery diet.

imgres

At Weight Zen, we follow a very clear six (6) week modified post surgical diet.

  • Phase 1: Two (2) weeks following surgery, you will be on protein shakes.
    • This is exactly what it sounds like – protein, protein, protein.
  • Phase 2: Two (2) weeks after protein shakes, you will be on pureed food.
    • In these two weeks, you can eat almost anything you want – so long as it’s pureed.
    • You’ll want to consider which foods blend best, and what will be most palatable for you.
  • Phase 3: Two (2) weeks after pureed food, you will be on soft food.
    • This phase is all about texture.
    • Think about the foods you love that are already soft, and you’ll get through these two weeks easily.

Keep us posted on how you’re doing! Remember – as always, we are here to help!

/0 Comments/by

Healthy Bariatric Snacks

healthy eating after bariatric surgery

We’re back today with a roundup of our favorite healthy bariatric snacks…sweet snacks!  It can be tough to find foods that work for you post-surgery, but we want you to think about all the foods you can eat instead of what you cannot.

Blue Diamond 100 Calorie Almonds (plain, dry roasted, vanilla, chocolate)

imgres-12

  • Sweet, crunchy, satisfying and delicious? Sign us up! These portion-controlled almonds are perfect to throw into your handbag or lunch bag, don’t need refrigeration and are the perfect boost of protein and fiber.
  • Having easily accessible snacks for on-the-go hunger is so important.  You never want to get so hungry that you will eat the first thing you find. Planning ahead is key, and find shelf-stable snacks are great.
  • Sample them all and find the flavor you love best!

RAP Protein Gummies (cherry, strawberry, citrus, mixed berry)

imgres-2

  • If you’re looking for a delicious way to get more protein into your diet (sweetly!) look no further.  These gummies are tasty and are packed with good-for-you protein that’s super important after surgery. 
  • Be sure to chew each very well.
  • We have each of the flavors in the office for you to try!

Bariatric Fusion Gummies

imgres-3

  • These sugar free soft chews are perfect for getting in your very important vitamins and minerals, and still enjoying something sweet!
  • Just like the protein gummies, be sure to chew them very well.

Now that we’ve shared a few of our favorite sweet snacks, let’s talk about how to transport them!

Fit & Fresh Smart Portion Chill Containers

keeping food cold on the go

  • These containers come with a removable cold pack to keep cold food cold.  Food safety is important as ever, so be sure you are paying attention to how long foods that need refrigeration are out of the fridge.
  • Perfect for transporting your breakfast Greek yogurt! 
  • The colorful tops help you to keep different foods in each container for easy planning.
    • veggies in green
    • protein in orange
    • fruits in pink
  • These have pre-marked measures for easy portion control.
    • It’s always best to measure your foods, and this takes the guess work out of it

We’d love to hear from you! What are your favorite snacks? And your favorite snack holders? Let us know in the comments below!

/0 Comments/by

Greek Yogurt for Bariatric Surgery

Greek yogurt has gotten more and and more popular over the past decade, and for good reason! It’s thick and creamy, loaded with protein and good bacteria, available in plain and flavored varieties and it’s delicious!

Greek yogurt is perfect for bariatric surgery patients.  As we’ve mentioned in previous posts, following surgery, it’s very important for bariatric patients to consume enough protein.  Greek yogurt is a perfect post surgical food! Why?  Keep reading to find out…

can bariatric patients eat greek yogurt

  1. High in protein
    • You don’t have to eat a huge amount to reap the benefits of this nutrition superpower – a little goes a long way
  2. Low in sugar
    • Greek yogurt is strained, meaning some of the lactose (the sugar found is milk) has been removed
    • Following a lifelong low sugar diet will be important for bariatric patients
  3. Contains good-for-you bacteria
    • The live cultures in yogurt are great for digestion
  4. Easy to swallow
    • Greek yogurt is a naturally soft food
    • Good for bariatric patients on the pureed or soft food stages of the post-surgical diet
  5. Tasty
    • We can’t forget taste
    • Greek yogurt has a delicious rich taste and texture
  6. Versatile
    • Greek yogurt is perfect substitute for sour cream or mayonaise in your favorite dishes
      • Think: egg salad, tuna salad, chicken salad
  7. Eat it plain or flavored
    • We love the plain varieties because they are often lowest in sugar
    • You can flavor your own yogurt by adding a sugar-free sweetener or fresh fruit (berries are our go to)
  8. Low fat or Fat Free
    • Most companies offer low fat and fat free versions (as well as full fat, but those should be avoided)
    • Low fat is often labeled “2%”
  9. So many options
    • Chobani
    • Siggi’s
    • Fage
    • Oikos
    • Elli Quark (technically considered a cheese)
    • Yoplait Greek
    • Activia Greek
    • Store brands (ShopRite, Fairway, etc)

When you’re shopping for Greek yogurt, pay attention to nutrition labels. Read how much protein and sugar is in one serving.  Shop the sales! You’ll be able to try a few different brands and see which ones you like best.  Variety is the spice of life!

Let us know your favorite way to enjoy Greek yogurt. We love hearing from you!

/2 Comments/by