WLS: Improve Health and Live Longer

Weight loss surgery(WLS) can significantly impact your health and well-being, contributing to improved health and extending lifespan.

While the weight loss advantages might be the most immediately apparent motivation for undergoing WLS, it's important to recognise that the health benefits are much more than the number on the scale. 

Obesity is linked to a wide range of comorbidities that impact nearly every organ system in the body. These comorbidities encompass various health issues, including.

• Cardiovascular problems (such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, coronary artery disease, heart failure and stroke), 
• Respiratory conditions (like obstructive sleep apnea), 
• Gastrointestinal disorders (including gastroesophageal reflux disease, gallbladder disease, and pancreatitis), 
• Endocrine system disruptions (such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus), 
• Reproductive system complications (like polycystic ovary syndrome and infertility),
• Liver issues (including fatty liver disease and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis), 
• Kidney problems (such as nephrolithiasis, chronic kidney disease, and urinary stress incontinence), 
• Musculoskeletal ailments (including osteoarthritis and hernias) and 
• Mental health challenges. 
• Cancers are more frequent, and the chance of dying of cancer is higher in patients with obesity.

Moreover, obesity can significantly impact one's overall quality of life.

Evidence indicates that many of these conditions show improvement and, in some instances, remission following weight loss achieved through bariatric surgery. There is a well-documented and enduring clinical improvement in metabolic health following such surgeries. 

Impact of Obesity Surgery on Your Health

• Quality of Life: Obesity can also affect the quality of life. Individuals with obesity may experience reduced mobility, chronic pain, and a lower overall sense of well-being. These factors can diminish the enjoyment and fulfilment of life, making it important to address excess weight for a longer and happier life. We know that, on average, patients report improving their quality of life following weight loss surgery. The most common thing we hear is, ‘I wish I had done this sooner!’.
• Impact on Healthcare: The healthcare costs associated with obesity-related conditions are substantial. Managing and treating cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and other obesity-related health issues can place a significant burden on you and have significant costs. Bariatric surgery has been shown to reduce your healthcare-associated costs throughout your lifetime.
• Resolution of other health issues: Many people with obesity have health issues related to weight, such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea and fatty liver disease. Weight loss surgery can lead to the resolution or improvement of these conditions, which, in turn, contributes to better health and well-being.
• Longer Lifespan: Studies have shown that weight loss surgery can extend the lifespan of overweight individuals. By addressing obesity-related health issues and promoting overall health, these surgeries can help individuals live longer and healthier lives.
• Lower cancer Risk: Studies have shown a lower risk of at least 13 types of cancer following weight loss surgery as well as a lower chance of dying from cancer if you were to still, unfortunately, get one.
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Building Fitness After Weight Loss Surgery

Building fitness after weight loss surgery is essential to the post-operative journey. Weight loss surgery can significantly change your body’s composition, and incorporating physical fitness can help you optimise your health and well-being.

Post-Surgery Physical Fitness

After weight loss surgery, focusing on improving physical fitness is crucial. Post-surgery fitness involves a combination of cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and flexibility work. This holistic approach to fitness can help individuals regain and build strength whilst enhancing their overall health.

Strength Training and Exercise

Strength training is pivotal in building muscle mass and increasing overall strength. The benefits of strength training after weight loss surgery include:

• Improved muscle tone and definition.
• Increased metabolic rate, which can aid in weight maintenance.
• Enhanced bone density.
• Better joint stability and function.
• Improved overall body composition.

Creating a Workout Routine

Building strength through exercise should be gradual and tailored to an individual's capabilities. A well-rounded workout routine may include:

• Resistance exercises targeting major muscle groups (e.g., squats, lunges, push-ups).
• Cardiovascular exercises (e.g., walking, swimming) to improve cardiovascular health and burn calories.
• Flexibility exercises (e.g. pilates and stretching) to maintain mobility and prevent injuries.
• Regular, progressive increases in intensity and duration to challenge the body and promote muscle growth.

Remember, the most effective exercise program is the one you can stick to. Try and find something that you enjoy. Any exercise is a good start, building up over time.

Nutrition and Diet Considerations for Building Muscle

• Adequate Protein Intake: Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair. After weight loss surgery, it's crucial to prioritise protein intake to support muscle development. Sources of lean protein include poultry, fish, lean meats, dairy, and plant-based options like legumes and tofu. Protein supplements may be recommended under the guidance of a healthcare professional or dietitian.
• Balancing Macronutrients: A balanced diet that includes carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein is essential for overall health and energy. Complex carbohydrates provide the necessary fuel for workouts, while healthy fats support various bodily functions. Portion control and mindful eating are vital in maintaining a balanced diet.
• Hair loss: Many patients ask us about hair loss following bariatric surgery. Hair loss is common between 3 and 6 months following surgery. Even if you take all recommended supplements, hair loss may be noticed until the follicles return. Hair loss is almost always temporary. An adequate intake of protein vitamins, including your multivitamin supplement, will help with hair regrowth and avoid longer-term thinning.

Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle for Longevity

Longevity, or a long and healthy life, is not solely determined by genetics but by lifestyle choices. A long-term commitment to a healthy lifestyle is essential because:

• Consistency Matters: Positive lifestyle habits become more effective when practised consistently over time. The cumulative effect of healthy choices significantly impacts one's health and longevity. This also means that if you have a bad day or two, this is not as important as your overall habits and mindset around healthy living.
• Prevention of Chronic Diseases: A healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, which are leading causes of premature mortality.
• Quality of Life: A healthy lifestyle enhances overall well-being, allowing you to enjoy a higher quality of life as you age. This includes maintaining physical and mental function, independence, and vitality.

The Role of Diet in Longevity

Balanced and Sustainable Eating Habits:

• Longevity is closely linked to diet. A balanced and sustainable eating pattern, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, provides essential nutrients and helps maintain a healthy weight.
• Sustainable eating habits are key. Crash diets or extreme restrictions are not conducive to long-term health and are often harmful. Consistency in making nutritious food choices is essential.

Avoiding Unhealthy Food Choices

• Limiting the consumption of processed foods, sugary beverages, and foods high in trans fats and saturated fats is essential for promoting longevity.
• Reducing salt intake can help manage blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Often, the most important aspect of maintaining healthy food choices is planning your diet and preparing healthy food as part of your normal routine.

Benefits of Regular Physical Activity

Regular aerobic exercises such as walking, jogging, swimming, and cycling improve cardiovascular health, increase endurance, and help maintain a healthy weight.

Cardiovascular exercise also supports lung health and overall vitality.

Flexibility and mobility exercises, including yoga and stretching, help maintain joint health, prevent injuries, and promote physical independence as one ages. They also enhance balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls.

Managing Stress and Mental Health

Stress Reduction Techniques

• Chronic stress can have detrimental effects on health and longevity. Practising stress reduction techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises and involvement with a psychologist can improve mental well-being.
• Adequate sleep is crucial for managing stress and supporting overall health.

Seeking Professional Help When Needed

• Mental health is an integral component of longevity. If individuals experience persistent feelings of anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, it's essential to seek professional help from your GP, psychiatrist or psychologist.
• Regular social interactions and maintaining a strong support network can also contribute to better mental health.