The Obesity Action Coalition states that people are categorized as morbidly obese when they are greater than 100 pounds over their ideal body weight, their Body Mass Index, BMI, is greater than 40, or they have a BMI of 35 or greater with an existing illness such as diabetes. Morbid obesity can negatively impact one’s health; several treatment options are recommended. Inpatient treatment options include bariatric surgery, gastric bypass surgery, laparoscopic adjustable gastric binding and behavior therapy.
Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery is the best option for losing the most weight. Although surgery is typically the last resort due to serious health risks such as bleeding and infection, it can help you lose up to 50 percent or more of your excess body weight. MayoClinic.com states that bariatric surgery confines the amount of food that you are comfortably able to consume or reduces the absorption of food and calories, or both.
Gastric Bypass Surgery
MayoClinic.com states that gastric bypass surgery is the most recommended surgery in the United States. In gastric bypass, the surgeon forms a small pouch at the top of your stomach. Then, the small intestine is incised a short distance beneath the main stomach and attached to the pouch. Afterwards, liquid and food are able to flow directly from the pouch into this part of the intestine, bypassing the majority of your stomach.
Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Binding
In laparoscopic adjustable gastric binding, your stomach is divided into two pouches with an inflatable band. By pulling the band tight, the surgeon constructs a small channel between the two pouches. The band secures the channel from expanding and it can be kept in place permanently. MayoClinic.com states that this surgery is popular because it is less invasive, causes slow, steady weight loss and the band can be modified if necessary. However, it is important to note that this surgery will not be successful without behavior changes in your diet and exercise regimen.
Behavior Therapy
Behavior therapy is an essential inpatient treatment for keeping your weight off postsurgery. Therapy can consist of counseling sessions with a psychologist or dietician and support groups with other individuals who have experienced the surgery. Counseling sessions with a psychologist can help you cope with behavioral and emotional issues related to eating. It can also provide you with insight in regards to why you overeat and help you determine solutions for dealing with anxiety and stress. In contrast, sessions with a dietician can assist you in developing a balanced diet from your favorite food groups and an achievable exercise plan.
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