In the twisting journey to lose weight, does it seem like you’re experimenting with a never-ending series of diets and eating plans … all to no effect? Well, recent studies show that it may not be your imagination. But they also shed further light on the potentially life-changing benefits of weight loss surgery!

It has been revealed that prior to undergoing weight loss procedures such as lap band surgery, or gastric banding surgery, the typical patient has tried their luck with an average of 24 diets and exercise regiments. These findings were spotlighted at the most recent annual meeting of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.

Bariatric Procedures May Hold the Key to Success
The researchers focused on 409 bariatric surgery patients; these included those men and women who had undergone either gastric bypass or adjustable gastric banding procedures. It was shown that the majority were usually 100 or more pounds overweight before surgery. These patients also suffered from an average of five obesity-related conditions, including: type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and/or sleep apnea.

The researchers noted that for those patients who most closely followed the advised post-surgical recommendations, an average of 123 pounds were lost during the first year. Those who didn’t follow the guidelines as closely typically lost about 92 pounds. At the five-year mark, the more diligent patients lost over 127 pounds, while the less responsible lost 100 pounds. According to healthcare and weight loss surgery professionals, the level of compliance is the “the difference between a good result and a great result.”

While every surgery team and patients may have unique guidelines to follow, there are certain points to consider. These post-surgical guidelines include: recommendations for regular exercise; changes to eating habits; receiving nutritional counseling and psychological support, and attending patient support groups; keeping a food diary; and visiting surgeons and/or doctors regularly. Estimates show that for 2007, about 205,000 people had bariatric surgery.