If you’ve ever tried to lose weight, then you know, it is not as it may sound. It is a journey full of ups and downs. Most people in Tijuana say that you should eat less and exercise more to shed those extra pounds. While it can work, it can affect your overall health.
And when someone mentions bariatric surgery, like gastric sleeve, the judgment and myths start rolling in. People hear bits and pieces from the internet, friends, or even movies, and before you know it, those myths start sounding like facts.
In this article, we'll clear up many things. We are going to discuss the top 5 health myths about weight loss and bariatric surgery you need to know. So, let’s begin:
Myth #1: Bariatric Surgery is an Easy Way Out
Let’s burst the first and most common myth about bariatric surgery right away. Most people in Tijuana say that bariatric surgery is an easy way to lose weight.
Bariatric surgery, like gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana, is a serious medical procedure. It involves removing about 75-80% of the stomach. This reduces the amount of food you can eat and lowers hunger by decreasing a hormone called ghrelin. Sounds straightforward, right? But that doesn't mean it's easy.
This surgery is made for those people who are battling with obesity for years and haven’t had success with exercise or diet.
While this procedure is effective, you have to follow a strict post-surgery diet to see the results. Also, you have to take up some vitamins for life, make long-term lifestyle changes, and go for regular medical checkups.
So, bariatric surgery is not a quick fix. It works best with some lifestyle changes and proper medical guidance.
Myth #2: You Can’t Gain Weight After Bariatric Surgery
Here’s another common myth about bariatric surgery. People also say that once you get bariatric surgery, you’ll stay slim forever. But this is definitely not the case.
The reality is, you can still gain weight after the surgery if you’re not careful. According to clevelandclinic, more than 76% of people have gained weight six years after bariatric surgery. This surgery only helps you eat less and make you full faster. But it doesn’t stop old habits from coming back.
After the surgery, if you do not eat healthy foods, eat too much junk food, and do not exercise, you’ll ultimately gain weight. While it doesn’t happen overnight, it can happen over time.
For that reason, adopting a healthy lifestyle is really important after the surgery.
Myth #3: You’ll Never Enjoy Food Again After Surgery
This is the myth which often scares people to undergo bariatric surgery. It is a myth that after the surgery, you have to bid farewell to all those delicious dishes. But this ain’t true.
While you’ll need to make changes in how and what you eat, you can still enjoy flavorful, satisfying meals. You’ll learn to focus on quality over quantity - smaller portions, more protein, and less sugar.
Over time, your tastes will change, and you’ll find new foods you love. Many people actually say they enjoy food more after surgery because they become more mindful and intentional about eating.
Myth #4: All You Need is Diet and Exercise
Yes, diet and exercise can really help you lose weight. But this is not enough for people dealing with obesity for years. Sometimes, despite their best efforts, people can’t lose weight. This is where bariatric surgery can help.
Bariatric surgery changes the way your body processes food and helps regulate hunger hormones like ghrelin. This makes it easier for you to eat less without constantly feeling hungry, which is often the biggest struggle for people trying to lose weight naturally.
While diet and exercise are key parts to losing weight, surgery like bariatric surgery is necessary for long-term success.
Myth #5: Bariatric Surgery Is Only for People Who Are Extremely Obese
While bariatric surgery is often recommended for people with a BMI of 40 or more, or 35+ with serious health issues like diabetes or heart disease, it is not just for “the heaviest” individuals.
Gastric sleeve surgery and other weight loss procedures are now being considered for people with lower BMIs when their weight is causing other medical conditions. It is about improving overall health, not just a number on the scale.
Remember, you don’t have to be morbidly obese to qualify for bariatric surgery. If your weight is harming your health, it is worth discussing with a doctor.
Weight loss is hard. It is personal. And it is not the same for everyone. The truth is, whether you’re trying to lose 20 pounds or 120 pounds, the journey is yours, and you deserve to have the right information to guide you.
So, the next time you hear one of these myths, take a moment to think critically. Talk to a healthcare provider, get the facts, and make informed choices that work for you.
