How to Know If Bariatric Surgery Is Right for You

 Bariatric surgery is a type of elective surgery that is designed to promote and facilitate weight loss in patients. Several different types of surgeries and procedures fall under the umbrella of bariatrics, including gastric bypass and Lap-Band. However, because of the nature of surgery in general, the decision to opt for bariatric procedures is not one to take lightly. 

Moreover, bariatric surgery is not something that everyone who wishes to pursue this route for their weight loss solution will be able to receive. This is because certain criteria must be met before surgical intervention of this sort is deemed necessary.

If you have been considering bariatric surgery to assist you in your own weight loss journey, here are a few ways to know if this option would be right for you.

Your Independent Weight Loss Efforts Have Been Unsuccessful

Weight loss is a difficult subject for many people and one that is often misunderstood by society in general. It is one thing to wish to lose a few pounds to feel better about one’s appearance; however, it is another thing entirely when the severity to which one is overweight begins to negatively impact your overall physical health.

Study after study has shown that obesity leads to several serious health conditions, some of which can be life-threatening. Obese individuals are at a significantly higher risk of diabetes and certain heart conditions, among other things. This is not to mention the expedited wear and tear on bones, muscles, and joints that tend to accompany obesity that can result in a lack of mobility and stability over time.

Generally speaking, patients who are seeking bariatric surgery, such as the ones offered at Olde Del Mar Surgical, know the health risks that they are facing when it comes to their weight. They would, thus, have already been attempting to lose weight via proper dieting and exercise. 

Such methods, although helpful things to incorporate into one’s daily life, are not efficient or effective enough in all cases to ward off those negative health risks. This is why bariatric surgery is typically reserved for those patients who have tried to lose weight via traditional methods but have been unsuccessful.

You Are Ready to Make Permanent Changes

Weight loss surgery, like any surgery, carries with it some significant risks and side effects. This is why anyone considering this option must be truly ready to make permanent lifestyle changes. In fact, bariatric surgeons typically require that candidates for weight loss surgery can demonstrate their commitment to positive lifestyle changes by beginning a routine of healthier eating and supervised physical activity for a significant amount of time before surgery.

The fact of the matter is that even if you undergo weight loss surgery, it is always possible to regain the weight. The right physician will be able to guide you to a better overall quality of life where weight loss surgery is the kick-starter for your new, healthier lifestyle.

5 Ways To Stay Active During COVID-19

 COVID-19 is causing difficulties for people in many different ways in 2020, and one area which affects everyone is the ability to stay active. People’s typical routines have been disrupted, and activities like going to the gym or playing competitive sports are unsafe, so what can you do to stay active? There are several ways that you can stay active during the pandemic, which will be vital not only for helping you to stay or get in good physical shape but also to improve your mental health during what has been an incredibly stressful and worrying time. Read on to find out a few ways that you can stay active.

1. Running/Cycling/Walking

Running, cycling, and walking are all excellent options during the pandemic because they are all good forms of exercise; they are free, and they allow you to stay safe and protect public health at all times. Additionally, it is nice to get out of the home when you have to spend more time than normal there, so any of these activities will be a good addition to your current routine.

2. Online Exercise Classes

There has been a sharp rise in online exercise classes during the pandemic. It is easy to see why because it allows you to exercise under the supervision of a professional, plus there is also a social element to this form of exercise which is helpful in a time where people are no longer able to socialize as much as normal - this is particularly good for those that live by themselves.

3. Home Exercise Equipment

Following this, you can also invest in home exercise equipment and exercise at home. This may not be the same as going to the gym, but it is a great way to stay in good shape, and there is no excuse not to exercise, so you might find that you end up working out more than normal. Alternatively, you could opt for a bodyweight workout or something like yoga, which does not require any equipment.

4. Putting Green in The Garden

For those that play golf or those that struggle with high-impact exercise, installing putting greens in backyard could be a fun option that allows you to keep your skills sharp, get some fresh air, and be active without having to leave the home. You can get highly realistic, low maintenance, putting greens installed even in a small backyard, which will give you an enjoyable activity while also improving the look of your garden.

5. Gardening

Leading on from this, another good option without having to leave the home is gardening. Gardening is a low impact but still an active and demanding activity that will also get you outside and able to enjoy the fresh air. You could even grow your own vegetables, which will encourage you to eat a healthy diet and reduce your grocery bill.

It is incredibly important to stay active during the pandemic so that you can look after both your physical and mental wellbeing during challenging times. Hopefully, this will give you a few ideas for ways that you can do this.