Gastric Bypass

Gastric Bypass is one of the most common forms of weight loss surgery in the United States because it results in reliable weight loss with acceptable risks and minimal side effects. In gastric bypass surgery, the surgeon staples off a large section of the stomach, leaving a tiny pouch. Patients simply can’t eat as much as they did before surgery, because this small pouch can only accommodate a few ounces of food at a time, and they subsequently lose weight.
Additionally, because most of the stomach and some of the small intestine has been bypassed, some of the nutrients and calories in your foods will not be absorbed. Appropriate candidates for this surgery are those who are 100 pounds or more overweight. It is important that patients who have had a gastric bypass procedure make a lifelong commitment to making the necessary changes in their diet. This includes maintaining an adequate intake of protein, taking vitamin and mineral supplements including a multivitamin, B12, iron and calcium, and avoiding sweets and fatty foods.