This is one of my favorite videos of Clarian Bariatric associates Traci and Lisa, who also happen to be former patients, discussing the importance of finding a support person to help you through the bariatric surgery process.
Tonight is our fitness "try it" night. If you have not yet been to one of our fitness classes with Erin Light, please give it a try tonight! Our fitness classes are specifically tailored to bariatric surgery patients at various points in the process.
The topic tonight is chair aerobics for everyone featuring chair boxing. Remember to wear comfortable clothes and bring your water bottles!
The topic tonight is chair aerobics for everyone featuring chair boxing. Remember to wear comfortable clothes and bring your water bottles!
A very interesting article published by the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons that discusses some trends they see in the coming year in relation to weight loss surgery. I'm proud to say that the Clarian Bariatrics program is already using may of these "trends" including single incision surgery, Lap Bands and an adolescent program. To read the full article, please click here.
Also, please consider joining us at the first of the year at a FREE informational seminar to have your bariatric surgery questions answered by Indianpolis surgeons. Learn about weight loss surgery costs, the insurance process and the different types of surgical options available.
Dates and times can be found by clicking on the image to the right of this post or by visiting A Call to Change.
Also, please consider joining us at the first of the year at a FREE informational seminar to have your bariatric surgery questions answered by Indianpolis surgeons. Learn about weight loss surgery costs, the insurance process and the different types of surgical options available.
Dates and times can be found by clicking on the image to the right of this post or by visiting A Call to Change.
Clarian Bariatrics has recently embarked on working with adolescents that are struggling with weight issues. We have seen improvement in the health of our adult patients and are excited about helping the younger population. As this article states the rapid improvement in the cardiac risk factors alone is impressive. Obviously there are many other positive gains when an adolescent losses 100 lbs or more. If you know an adolescent that would benefit from our help have them talk to their primary care physician about a referral to Clarian Bariatrics.
Beneficial changes in heart structure are observed in adolescents as early as 6 months after undergoing bariatric surgery, and benefits persist for up to at least 2 years, researchers said here at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions 2009.
In a study, adolescents lost a mean of 50 kg (110 lbs), and the weight loss showed up in imaging of their hearts, according to Holly Ippisch, MD, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.
"Increased cardiac risk factors are present in morbidly obese adolescents but can improve rapidly, within 6 months, following profound weight loss," said Dr. Ippisch during an oral presentation on November 17. "These improvements persist for at least 2 years following profound weight loss."
Beneficial changes in heart structure are observed in adolescents as early as 6 months after undergoing bariatric surgery, and benefits persist for up to at least 2 years, researchers said here at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions 2009.
In a study, adolescents lost a mean of 50 kg (110 lbs), and the weight loss showed up in imaging of their hearts, according to Holly Ippisch, MD, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.
"Increased cardiac risk factors are present in morbidly obese adolescents but can improve rapidly, within 6 months, following profound weight loss," said Dr. Ippisch during an oral presentation on November 17. "These improvements persist for at least 2 years following profound weight loss."
Below are the final tips from Cathy Wilson for a low-stress holiday. Enjoy the time you can spend with your loved ones tomorrow!
6. Don't fall back into old family patterns. If a family member can push your buttons, be aware of this probability and think in advance how to deal with it so it doesn't impact your holiday. Promise yourself you will not indulge in emotional eating to cope with stressful situations.
7. Lower your expectations. The "perfect" Thanksgiving doesn't exist. Keep your expectations in check so you don't set yourself up for disappointment in striving for perfection.
8. Dine out for Thanksgiving. Go out to a restaurant for your Thanksgiving meal. For many people, it is preferable - no leftovers, no fuss, no preparations or cleanup. All you have to do is make reservations.
9. Volunteer. If you're alone this Thanksgiving or want to spend your holiday in a different way, volunteer. Sharing time with those in need can be a meaningful way to celebrate Thanksgiving. Give the gift of yourself this Thanksgiving.
10. Gratitude. The reason for Thanksgiving is to be grateful. Focus on what you're grateful for in your life.
6. Don't fall back into old family patterns. If a family member can push your buttons, be aware of this probability and think in advance how to deal with it so it doesn't impact your holiday. Promise yourself you will not indulge in emotional eating to cope with stressful situations.
7. Lower your expectations. The "perfect" Thanksgiving doesn't exist. Keep your expectations in check so you don't set yourself up for disappointment in striving for perfection.
8. Dine out for Thanksgiving. Go out to a restaurant for your Thanksgiving meal. For many people, it is preferable - no leftovers, no fuss, no preparations or cleanup. All you have to do is make reservations.
9. Volunteer. If you're alone this Thanksgiving or want to spend your holiday in a different way, volunteer. Sharing time with those in need can be a meaningful way to celebrate Thanksgiving. Give the gift of yourself this Thanksgiving.
10. Gratitude. The reason for Thanksgiving is to be grateful. Focus on what you're grateful for in your life.
Here are 10 Tips for a Low-Stress Thanksgiving, by Cathy Wilson, ACC,CLC, Director of Obesity Help Support Group Leader Program
As weight loss surgery patients, some of our stress comes from all the food choices that we aren't faced with normally. Here are a few tips to help lower stress and make this Thanksgiving holiday one that you will not see reflected on the scale.
1. Plan ahead. If you are hosting the Thanksgiving get-together, include some healthy dishes that you will be able to enjoy. If you are a guest, bring your own weight loss surgery friendly dish. You'll know there will be a dish and a protein that will be available for you to enjoy.
2. Rally the troops. Make this year's Thanksgiving get-together a potluck and let each guest bring a dish of their own. The guests can bring the traditional meal items.
3. Move it or lose it. Take part in some type of physical activity before and after the meal.
4. Clean it up. Offer to help clear the table and clean up the kitchen. No bites during the clean up process. Burn some calories.
5. Just say NO to leftovers. Don't accept any of the leftovers that will have survived the Thanksgiving meal. Resist temptation!
As weight loss surgery patients, some of our stress comes from all the food choices that we aren't faced with normally. Here are a few tips to help lower stress and make this Thanksgiving holiday one that you will not see reflected on the scale.
1. Plan ahead. If you are hosting the Thanksgiving get-together, include some healthy dishes that you will be able to enjoy. If you are a guest, bring your own weight loss surgery friendly dish. You'll know there will be a dish and a protein that will be available for you to enjoy.
2. Rally the troops. Make this year's Thanksgiving get-together a potluck and let each guest bring a dish of their own. The guests can bring the traditional meal items.
3. Move it or lose it. Take part in some type of physical activity before and after the meal.
4. Clean it up. Offer to help clear the table and clean up the kitchen. No bites during the clean up process. Burn some calories.
5. Just say NO to leftovers. Don't accept any of the leftovers that will have survived the Thanksgiving meal. Resist temptation!
I just wanted to post a video from one of our many success stories, Brook. She was kind enough to share her story with the Indianapolis area by being featured in Clarian Bariatrics commericals. Brook is a great example of how weight loss surgery can change your life.
If you would like to learn more about the bariatric surgery process, please come listen to one of our Indianapolis-based surgeons discuss treatment options and much more at a FREE informational seminar. Dates, times and the ability to RSVP can be found by clicking here.
If you would like to learn more about the bariatric surgery process, please come listen to one of our Indianapolis-based surgeons discuss treatment options and much more at a FREE informational seminar. Dates, times and the ability to RSVP can be found by clicking here.
I am a firm believer of following the program guidelines but I am not perfect, I am human and I will make mistakes. I have made myself very aware of the consequences of what happens when I venture off the beaten path.
I have a “healthy” fear of dumping and hope that fear stays with me for a long time.
Reality has shown me that some people will never understand or support my decision to have Bariatric surgery and I have chosen to be at peace with that.
I want people to know that Bariatric surgery is no way the easy way out in fact it’s quite the opposite. This is a lifelong lifestyle change that takes hard work and dedication. This surgery not only affects me but also those closest to me.
No matter how much research I did before surgery, nothing could ever truly prepare me for the life changing events it would bring to me physically, mentally and spiritually.
It takes 20 minutes for my head to catch up with my stomach. Slowing down to eat in this fast past world is challenging but a necessary part of my weight loss journey.
Learning to put myself first and take care of ME is still something I struggle with but strive to accomplish daily.
No Bariatric patient is a perfect mirror image of me. We are all very individual people with different experiences but seem to have the unspoken understanding of what the other has gone through.
No matter what my physical size or shape is, people will always have an opinion and the only one that truly matters is MINE!! What’s most important is how I feel about myself!
If it wasn’t for the love and support of my family and friends I would not be the person I am today.
I have a “healthy” fear of dumping and hope that fear stays with me for a long time.
Reality has shown me that some people will never understand or support my decision to have Bariatric surgery and I have chosen to be at peace with that.
I want people to know that Bariatric surgery is no way the easy way out in fact it’s quite the opposite. This is a lifelong lifestyle change that takes hard work and dedication. This surgery not only affects me but also those closest to me.
No matter how much research I did before surgery, nothing could ever truly prepare me for the life changing events it would bring to me physically, mentally and spiritually.
It takes 20 minutes for my head to catch up with my stomach. Slowing down to eat in this fast past world is challenging but a necessary part of my weight loss journey.
Learning to put myself first and take care of ME is still something I struggle with but strive to accomplish daily.
No Bariatric patient is a perfect mirror image of me. We are all very individual people with different experiences but seem to have the unspoken understanding of what the other has gone through.
No matter what my physical size or shape is, people will always have an opinion and the only one that truly matters is MINE!! What’s most important is how I feel about myself!
If it wasn’t for the love and support of my family and friends I would not be the person I am today.
How are you doing with your program? Look at the tips below and see how you’re doing.
- Eat three good quality meals per day. Fill your plate with lots of protein and veggies. Meals should be centered around a protein source. Protein is important to maintain your body’s muscle mass, for healing and also makes you feel full for a longer period of time. Vegetables also fill you up with very few calories and provide your body with the vitamins and minerals it needs!
- Drink lots of calorie free fluids! Water, water and more water is always best. Try crystal light, decaf tea, and other sugar free beverages. Avoid caffeine and carbonation.
- Don’t snack! Mindless snacking leads to too many calories and can lead you back to bad habits. If you are going long time periods between meals (> 5 hours), try a protein based snack like a string cheese to keep you full!
- Plan ahead always! Life gets crazy sometimes. It’s important to know what you’re eating ahead of time. If you don’t, you’ll end up grabbing something you shouldn’t.
The holidays are right around the corner! Holidays are different if you’ve had bariatric surgery or if you’re getting ready for it. Do you have a plan in place to make sure you have a Healthy and Happy Holiday? Then come to support group tonight!
Date: Tuesday, November 3
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Clarian Bariatrics
This group is perfect for all pre and post surgical patients and their support people. See you later!
Date: Tuesday, November 3
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Clarian Bariatrics
This group is perfect for all pre and post surgical patients and their support people. See you later!
First, don’t buy it! Instead of having bags of candy to hand out to trick or treaters, try something else. Pencils, erasers, bubbles, play doh and card games are all sold in the Halloween section. This way, you can participate with out being tempted by candy and sweets.
If you insist on candy, buy something you don’t like to hand out and throw it away immediately when the last trick or treater leaves!
Focus on enjoying the holiday, not the candy and treats!
Are you looking to gather more information on weight loss surgery? Have you wanted to ask questoins about bariatric surgery costs, types of weight loss surgery (including Lap Band and Gastric Bypass) and the Indiana insurance approval process?
Then consider joining us for a FREE informational weight loss seminar on Thursday October 29 at 6:30 pm in Cicero, Indiana at 1160 South Peru Street, State Road 19. You can register online at ACallToChange.org.
Also, feel free to bring as many of your friends and loved ones along to hear our Indianapolis-based bariatric surgeons discuss the process. See you there!
Then consider joining us for a FREE informational weight loss seminar on Thursday October 29 at 6:30 pm in Cicero, Indiana at 1160 South Peru Street, State Road 19. You can register online at ACallToChange.org.
Also, feel free to bring as many of your friends and loved ones along to hear our Indianapolis-based bariatric surgeons discuss the process. See you there!
This operation is the most common and successful malabsorptive surgery. First, a small stomach pouch is created to restrict food intake. Next, a Y-shaped section of the small intestine is attached to the pouch to allow food to bypass the lower stomach, the duodenum (the first segment of the small intestine), and the first portion of the jejunum (the second segment of the small intestine). This bypass reduces the amount of calories and nutrients the body absorbs. It is the primary surgery performed by The Clarian Bariatric Center.
This operation can be performed either by a traditional open surgery or laparoscopically, a relatively new technology using a small video camera and a few customized instruments to perform surgery with minimal tissue damage. The Roux-en-Y technique is generally more effective in reversing health problems associated with severe obesity. Patients who have malabsorptive operations generally lose two-thirds of their excess weight within two years.
This operation can be performed either by a traditional open surgery or laparoscopically, a relatively new technology using a small video camera and a few customized instruments to perform surgery with minimal tissue damage. The Roux-en-Y technique is generally more effective in reversing health problems associated with severe obesity. Patients who have malabsorptive operations generally lose two-thirds of their excess weight within two years.
Below is another popular educational video that we produced to help potential patients understand the risks and rewards of Indiana weight loss surgery. Remember, if you have additional questions, please call us at 317-275-7010 to sign up for a FREE weight loss surgery seminar.
It has been several months since I posted this video, but I have had some requests to re-run some of our "What to Expect" series. Look for a few this week and next, and remember to leave a comment if you have any questions about weight loss surgery procedures, bariatric surgery costs or Indianapolis surgeons.
Join us for an educational seminar to speak with our surgeons, nutritionists and past patients to learn how weight loss surgery can help you gain control of your weight, regain health and start a new life.
This Saturday, October 17 from 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. you are invited to visit our outpatient clinic on the northwest side of Indianapolis and have your questions answered about bariatric surgery costs, causes of obesity and sustainable weight loss options at the hands of our skilled Indianapolis staff.
If you are interested in attending, please fill out our online registration form or call 317-275-7010 or 877-275-2555 (toll free) to reserve your spot.
This Saturday, October 17 from 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. you are invited to visit our outpatient clinic on the northwest side of Indianapolis and have your questions answered about bariatric surgery costs, causes of obesity and sustainable weight loss options at the hands of our skilled Indianapolis staff.
If you are interested in attending, please fill out our online registration form or call 317-275-7010 or 877-275-2555 (toll free) to reserve your spot.
The following blog was written by Misty Hawkins.
I'm writing today to give you an idea of which topics are covered in the Behavior Change Group offered by Clarian Bariatrics.
Last Tuesday we focused on why people want to get Bariatric surgery and our unhealthy relationships with food. Now, I know that everyone's ultimate goal is to "lose weight" but what are the "real reasons" - how will losing the weight change your life for the better? Will losing weight help you live without as much pain? Will you be able to keep up with your family and children? Your reason could even be as simple as finally being able to shop in whichever clothing store you want…instead of being forced to go to the "plus size" stores!
I think at the heart of everyone's yearning to lose weight is the desire to get back in control of your life - and that means no longer letting food control you. Everyone in the group could give me an example of eating for the "wrong" reasons: Eating when they were angry or sad, eating when they were watching T.V. or studying, and even eating to make themselves happy. The problem is these are unhealthy ways to use food and often lead to weight gain and more unhappiness. You can often use your "real reasons" for losing weight to change your relationship to food and get back on track!
Come to our group to talk about these issues and learn to overcome unhealthy relationships! Next week, we will be talking about cravings and how to fight them! The Behavior Change Group is offered 7 PM to 8 PM every Tuesday night except for the fifth Tuesday of the month. I hope you'll stop by and see us and, if you like, you can share your story!
I'm writing today to give you an idea of which topics are covered in the Behavior Change Group offered by Clarian Bariatrics.
Last Tuesday we focused on why people want to get Bariatric surgery and our unhealthy relationships with food. Now, I know that everyone's ultimate goal is to "lose weight" but what are the "real reasons" - how will losing the weight change your life for the better? Will losing weight help you live without as much pain? Will you be able to keep up with your family and children? Your reason could even be as simple as finally being able to shop in whichever clothing store you want…instead of being forced to go to the "plus size" stores!
I think at the heart of everyone's yearning to lose weight is the desire to get back in control of your life - and that means no longer letting food control you. Everyone in the group could give me an example of eating for the "wrong" reasons: Eating when they were angry or sad, eating when they were watching T.V. or studying, and even eating to make themselves happy. The problem is these are unhealthy ways to use food and often lead to weight gain and more unhappiness. You can often use your "real reasons" for losing weight to change your relationship to food and get back on track!
Come to our group to talk about these issues and learn to overcome unhealthy relationships! Next week, we will be talking about cravings and how to fight them! The Behavior Change Group is offered 7 PM to 8 PM every Tuesday night except for the fifth Tuesday of the month. I hope you'll stop by and see us and, if you like, you can share your story!
The following factors will be considered in determining if you are a candidate for bariatric surgery:
Before patients undergo surgery for morbid obesity, they must qualify for our bariatrics program. Our basic program guidelines are:
BMI Categories:
Underweight: less than18.5
Normal: 18.5-24.9
Overweight: 25.0-29.9
Obesity (Class 1): 30-34.9
Severe obesity (Class 2): 35-39.9
Severe obesity (Class 3): 40-49.9
Super-obesity: over 50
Learn more by joining us at a FREE informational seminar this week! Learn more at ACallToChange.org.
- You have tried to lose weight by changing your eating habits and exercise and are still severely obese.
- You are unable to perform routine daily activities without being seriously affected.
- You understand the procedure and the lifestyle changes you will need to make after bariatric surgery.
- You are motivated to make a lifelong behavioral commitment that includes well-balanced meals and physical exercise.
- You understand that this surgery won't solve all your problems, but can make you healthier -- and probably much happier.
Before patients undergo surgery for morbid obesity, they must qualify for our bariatrics program. Our basic program guidelines are:
- Being 100 pounds or more over your "ideal body weight," according to the established weight charts.
- Having a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than 40 with no co-morbidities or greater than 35 with serious co-morbidities.
- Being able and willing to make the necessary lifestyle changes.
BMI Categories:
Underweight: less than18.5
Normal: 18.5-24.9
Overweight: 25.0-29.9
Obesity (Class 1): 30-34.9
Severe obesity (Class 2): 35-39.9
Severe obesity (Class 3): 40-49.9
Super-obesity: over 50
Learn more by joining us at a FREE informational seminar this week! Learn more at ACallToChange.org.
The success of your bariatric surgery depends greatly on your understanding that you MUST change your lifestyle. Having the surgery is only the beginning.
DIETARY CHANGES – You should be prepared to make substantial and permanent changes to your eating habits to ensure that you reach an ideal, healthy weight and maintain that weight. Dietary guidelines vary from surgeon to surgeon – the key is to adhere to the plan given to you by your surgeon. Here are some common dietary guidelines to follow after your surgery (confer with your surgeon for more detailed eating guidelines and lists of acceptable foods during various stages of recovery):
LIFESTYLE CHANGES – Your life will change dramatically… FOR THE BETTER. But you must always remember to
DIETARY CHANGES – You should be prepared to make substantial and permanent changes to your eating habits to ensure that you reach an ideal, healthy weight and maintain that weight. Dietary guidelines vary from surgeon to surgeon – the key is to adhere to the plan given to you by your surgeon. Here are some common dietary guidelines to follow after your surgery (confer with your surgeon for more detailed eating guidelines and lists of acceptable foods during various stages of recovery):
- Chew your food thoroughly and eat very slowly.
- Wait 2-3 minutes after swallowing before putting the next bite of food in your mouth. You will not be able to digest steaks or other chunks of meat if they are not ground or chewed thoroughly.
- Learn to stop eating when you feel full. DON’T EAT UNTIL YOUR ARE STUFFED.
- Don't drink fluids 30 minutes prior to eating, during your meal, or 30 minutes after your meal.
- Don’t eat desserts and other items with sugar if they have more than 3 to 5 grams per serving size.
- Avoid carbonated drinks, high-calorie nutritional supplements, milk shakes, foods high in fat, and foods that have no nutritional value.
- Avoid alcohol.
- Limit snacking between meals.
LIFESTYLE CHANGES – Your life will change dramatically… FOR THE BETTER. But you must always remember to
- Follow your dietary guidelines (eating larger portions or foods not recommended can result in gaining weight back)
- Establish and maintain a regular exercise plan (to build and keep muscle mass)
- Take your vitamin supplements regularly
We recently received a blog comment asking about the cost of a typical procedure. While there are many variables as each patient is different, I thought I would re-run the posting as a way to answer some additional questions.
I am often asked by prospective patients the price of Bariatric surgery. I try to give a ball park figure, but it is a price that I cannot quote exactly. Prior to surgery we verify the benefits available to each patient with their insurance plan. If insurance is not an option, I offer the patient the cash pay rate. This is not one fee for all; you will receive a balance of approximately $26,000
A portion of this will be due before surgery (two weeks) the remaining balance will be in different bills. Pre-operative testing, anesthesia, surgeon fees, etc…I cannot give an exact figure as each patient has different mitigating factors affecting their procedures. Different co-morbidities require different tests for example.
If you have any additional questions about bariatric surgery financing, gastric bypass costs and other fees related to weight loss surgyer, please do not hesitate to call us at 317-275-7010 or attend a FREE seminar.
I am often asked by prospective patients the price of Bariatric surgery. I try to give a ball park figure, but it is a price that I cannot quote exactly. Prior to surgery we verify the benefits available to each patient with their insurance plan. If insurance is not an option, I offer the patient the cash pay rate. This is not one fee for all; you will receive a balance of approximately $26,000
A portion of this will be due before surgery (two weeks) the remaining balance will be in different bills. Pre-operative testing, anesthesia, surgeon fees, etc…I cannot give an exact figure as each patient has different mitigating factors affecting their procedures. Different co-morbidities require different tests for example.
If you have any additional questions about bariatric surgery financing, gastric bypass costs and other fees related to weight loss surgyer, please do not hesitate to call us at 317-275-7010 or attend a FREE seminar.
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