Bariatric Surgery and Diabetes: Effects and Benefits
Diabetes is a significant health issue globally. In the U.S. alone, more than 37 million individuals are living with diabetes. This health condition is associated with a variety of other medical issues, including nerve damage, disruptions in vision and hearing, and kidney and heart disease. One of the benefits of weight loss surgery is that it can help with diabetes management.
Diabetes and Weight
Type 2 diabetes or T2B is the most common form of the condition in the U.S., affecting 90-95% of those with diabetes. T2B can result from inadequate insulin production, an inability to properly use insulin in the body, or a combination of the two. T2B is commonly caused by insulin resistance, which occurs when muscle, liver, and fat cells have an abnormal response to insulin. They become less sensitive to insulin, which makes blood sugar regulation more challenging. As a result, less glucose is taken up by the cells and blood sugar levels rise.
Obesity is one of the main risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes. Individuals who have excess body fat, especially in the abdominal area, and who live sedentary lifestyles, are more likely to develop T2B. Obesity has been linked to insulin resistance and elevated blood sugar levels, which can contribute to the development of diabetes.
Bariatric Surgery and Diabetes
Research has found that type 2 diabetes can be reversed through weight loss and improved through healthy lifestyle strategies including a balanced diet and exercise. Bariatric procedures can help achieve this goal. Bariatric surgery can help patients work towards a more optimal body mass index or BMI and limit calorie intake. It can also help change how the digestive system processes food, improving metabolism and the maintenance of proper blood sugar levels.
The hormonal changes resulting from weight loss surgery can also be beneficial for diabetes. Decreases in the hunger-stimulating hormone ghrelin help prevent overeating. Increases in the hormone GLP-1 have also been seen. GLP-1 is necessary for proper insulin production, and can help stabilize blood sugar levels and combat insulin resistance.
Visit Tri State Bariatrics
Weight loss procedures can be a beneficial part of diabetes management. Bariatric hospitals determine eligibility for these surgeries based on specific criteria, including a BMI of 40 or above or a BMI of 35 and above with a health condition such as type 2 diabetes. The team at Tri State Bariatrics is committed to helping each patient on their unique weight-loss journey. We will review your medical history and health concerns and determine which procedures might be right for you. Get in touch today to learn more.
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