Obesity Medical Problems

News article: Study Foresees an Increase in Obesity and Its Costs

Thursday, November 19, 2009 by Andy Pollen

I came across this article in the New York Times and found some very startling statistics that worth repeating. The first few paragraphs are below and the full text can be found by clicking the link.

While Congress searches for ways to slow the growth of health care spending, a new study suggests that its efforts may be overwhelmed by the surging prevalence of obesity.

The report, to be issued Tuesday, projects that if current trends continue 103 million American adults will be considered obese by 2018. That would be 43 percent of adults, compared to 31 percent in 2008, according to the research by Kenneth E. Thorpe of Emory University, an authority on the cost of treating chronic disease.

Mr. Thorpe concluded that the prevalence of obesity is growing faster than that of any other public health condition in the country’s history. Health care costs related to obesity — which is associated with conditions like hypertension and diabetes — would total $344 billion in 2018, or more than one in five dollars spent on health care, if the trends continue. If the obesity rate were held to its current level, the country would save nearly $200 billion a year by 2018, according to the study.

News article: It's time fruit juice loses its wholesome image, some experts say

Wednesday, November 11, 2009 by Terri Hohlt

Another article in the never ending debate about what's good for you and what's not. This one tackles juice and the "is it or isn't" debate about popular fruit drinks. The first few paragraphs are below and full text can be found here. Remember, if you ever have a question about what you should or shouldn't be eating, please call one of our dieticians at 317-275-7010.

To many people, it's a health food. To others, it's simply soda in disguise.

That virtuous glass of juice is feeling the squeeze as doctors, scientists and public health authorities step up their efforts to reduce the nation's girth.

It's an awkward issue for the schools that peddle fruit juice in their cafeterias and vending machines. It's uncomfortable for advocates of a junk-food tax who say they can't afford to target juice and alienate its legions of fans. It's confusing for consumers who think they're doing something good when they chug their morning OJ, sip 22-ounce smoothies or pack apple juice in their children's lunches.

The inconvenient truth, many experts say, is that 100% fruit juice poses the same obesity-related health risks as Coke, Pepsi and other widely vilified beverages.

News article: More Than 20 Percent of Teens Have Heart Disease Risk Factors

Saturday, November 7, 2009 by Terri Hohlt

A very startling article that I found in the November issue of the Obesity Action Coalition's online newsletter. Childhood obesity is certainly something we need to focus even more attention on in the coming years...we need to stop the cycle!

More than one in five teenagers has at least one risk factor for heart disease such as obesity and high cholesterol, a jump from just six years earlier, suggests new research.

Researchers partnered with a group that has been following the heart health of thousands of teenagers in the Niagara region of Ontario for more than two decades. They found that between the years 2002 and 2008, the number of Grade nine students with one or more cardiovascular risk factors rose to 21 percent from 17 percent. The number of obese teens went from 11 percent to 13 percent, while those with elevated cholesterol almost doubled from 9 percent to 16 percent.

The only figure to buck the trend was the number of students with high blood pressure, which dropped slightly from 19 percent to 17 percent. The figures mirror what's going on in Canadian society overall, said Dr. Brian McCrindle, a pediatric cardiologist at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto.

To learn more, click here.

The Biggest Loser and You

Tuesday, October 27, 2009 by Erin Light

Do you love watching The Biggest Loser? Whether you love the show or not, most people can agree that the participants are inspiring in their quests to get healthy and lose weight. This past year, I’ve gotten quite a few comments and questions about the show and the exercises that are performed by the participants. I haven’t faithfully watched the past few seasons, so I can’t comment directly on the training programs in the show. However, I was

sent an article recently that reviewed the exercise programs and included an interview with Bob Harper (show trainer) about how realistic the show really is when it comes to what you see on the screen.

If you want to read Bob Harper’s comments and other personal trainers thoughts on the show, check out this article.

A couple things I took away from this article:

Remember that these participants are living outside of the “real world” during this show. Think about the changes you could make if you didn’t have to work, clean the house, or take care of your family. Their jobs during this special time in their lives are to exercise, learn how to eat right, and compete in weight loss. We ask you to do all these things, but we can’t keep you here overnight. Think about how successful you are for doing all of these things while living your real life!
The exercise programs are typically extreme for the overweight population. These participants are thoroughly checked for medical issues before and during the show. They are not allowed to be a participant if they suffer from certain medical conditions. If you are ever questioning whether you should be exercising like them---think about whether or not The Biggest Loser doctors would clear you to participate.
Although the whole concept of the show is very inspiring, you have to remember that the main goal of The Biggest Loser is TV ratings and entertainment. I am the first one to admit I come to tears every time I watch the show, but I always try to remember the “TV element” of the production. We don’t see everything!
And most of all…if the show gives you positive and uplifting feelings and helps you start exercising, then keep watching! If it makes you feel inadequate or unmotivated like you could never exercise, then change the channel!

Types of Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery

Friday, October 23, 2009 by Terri Hohlt

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.

Smart Tips for School

Thursday, October 22, 2009 by Tina Carmichael

Since it is almost fall break, I thought it would be smart to finish up with my "smart school" habits! WebMD the Magazine's September issue featured a segment “Ask the School Nurse." With all the news about H1N1, I thought this was very timely.

Hands on. Adopting good hand-washing habits is the best way to avoid illness. Teach your child to rub her hands for al least 20 seconds with soap and warm water before eating and after using the restroom and playing outside.

Cover up. Teach your child to sneeze and cough into a tissue or the bend of their elbow to keep infectious droplets from spraying into the air and making other kids sick.

Home works. Most kids catch colds or flu from and under the weather classmate. Give your child the rest they need and their classmates a break by keeping them home when they don’t feel well.

Lighten up. Carrying a backpack shouldn’t be a workout for your child. Pack the bag as lightly as possible, with heavier items in the center compartment. The load should never be more than 10% to 20% of their body weight. A child weighing 63 pounds should carry between 6.3 to 12.6 pounds in their backpack.

News article: Weight-loss surgery brings risk of iron deficiency

Saturday, October 17, 2009 by Trish Seidel

This article is just another reminder of how important it is to talk with your dietician to ensure that you are getting all the proper nutrients you need post-operatively. If you ever have a question about supplements, please call us at 317-275-7010.

Full text of this Reuters article can be found by clicking here.

Weight loss surgery can help you lose weight, but it's also likely to leave you unable to absorb iron, a new study suggests: Iron deficiency is a common problem after stomach bypass surgery to treat severe obesity -- and standard iron supplements may not be enough to prevent it in some patients.

Researchers found that among 67 Chilean women who had undergone the most common form of weight-loss surgery, 39 percent developed low blood counts, also known as anemia, within 18 months of surgery. That anemia was most often due to a deficiency in iron, which the body needs to produce healthy red blood cells that carry oxygen.

In contrast, less than two percent of the women had been anemic before surgery, the researchers report in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Recipe: Mushroom Frittata

Thursday, October 15, 2009 by Tina Carmichael

The following recipe is from the October issue of Cooking Light magazine and is perfect for those patients on the Liver Reduction Diet (LRD).

This vegetarian entrée is ideal for a light breakfast or brunch, but can also be served for dinner paired with a simple side salad. It only has five ingredients.

1 eight ounce package exotic mushroom blend
½ cup shredded Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (make sure to use a high quality cheese for the best flavor)
1-1/2 teas. Chopped fresh thyme
3 large egg whites
2 large eggs

Preheat broiler. Heat and 8-inch ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add mushrooms to pan; sauté 12 minutes or until lightly browned. Place mushrooms in a medium bowl; cool slightly. Wipe pan clean with paper towels. Combine mushrooms, cheese thyme ¼ teas. freshly ground black, 1/8 teas salt, egg whites and eggs in a medium bowl, stirring well with a whisk. Heat pan over medium heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add mushrooms mixture; cook covered, for 3 minutes or until almost set. Broil 3 minutes or until egg is set. Cut into 4 wedges.

Yield: 4 servings serving size: 1 wedge

Calories: 122, Fat 6/4g, protein 13.3g, carb. 3g, fiber 0.8g, chol 116 mg., Iron 0.9 mg., sodium 401mg., calc 195mg.

Behavior Change Group! What Do We Talk About?

Thursday, October 15, 2009 by William Hilgendorf

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!

Who is a candidate for weight loss surgery?

Wednesday, October 14, 2009 by Terri Hohlt

The following factors will be considered in determining if you are a candidate for bariatric surgery:

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.

News article: Obesity will be biggest cancer cause within 10 years

Wednesday, October 7, 2009 by Andy Pollen

Another article from the OAC's e-newsletter. It is rather shocking that obesity has so quickly become such a serious health issue. You can read full text of the article by clicking here.

Already up to one in twelve new cases of the disease are attributed to being overweight or obese and this proportion is set to increase as more quit smoking and stop hormone replacement therapy.

Dr Andrew Renehan, a cancer expert at the University of Manchester, told a medical conference: "Obesity is catching up at a rate that makes it possible it could become the biggest attributable cause of cancer in women within the next decade."

Last year, the number of cancer cases in Europe linked to weight jumped to at least 124,050, almost double the number in 2002.

More school tips for your family

Monday, October 5, 2009 by Tina Carmichael

WebMD the Magazine had a feature in its September 2009 issue called “Ask the School Nurse.” There were four sections under Make the Grade – Get kids off to a health start this school year with these tips for good nutrition, reduced stress, regular exercise, and healthy habits.

Class action. Don’t assume your child is getting enough physical activity at school. Giving kids a change to move and get their heart rates up before studying makes it easier for them to learn. Ask your child’s teacher about having the class do jumping jacks, run in place, and other quick exercises in between classroom activities.

Power hour. Make sure your kids run around for at least an hour each day. Don’t have a full hour for exercise? Try short 15-minute bursts of running, jumping, or games that encourage these activities to keep them interested and active.

Family affair. Busy families tend to skip physical activities together. Bond with your kids and boost the whole family’s health by planning family bike rides, walks, or other exercise you can all do together.

News article: Obesity, alcohol, depression interlinked for women

Monday, October 5, 2009 by Andy Pollen

I read this article in the recent edition of the Obesity Action Coalition's e-newsletter. The first few paragraphs are below and you can view full text by clicking here.

Alcohol abuse, obesity and depression seem to go hand in hand for many women, according to the first study to look at how the three relate to one another over time in young adults.

Dr. Carolyn A. McCarty of Seattle Children's Research Institute and her colleagues also found that almost half of the men and women in their study suffered from at least one of these problems between the ages of 21 and 30.

"That's big," McCarty told Reuters Health, and is likely only "the tip of the iceberg," because she and her colleagues used fairly stringent definitions of alcohol abuse, depression and obesity in their study.

Make the Grade

Friday, October 2, 2009 by Tina Carmichael

WebMD the Magazine featured in its September issue a segment called “Ask the School Nurse.” There were four sections under "Make the Grade – Get Kids Off to a Healthy Start This School Year," with these tips for good nutrition, reduced stress, regular exercise and healthy habits. I have put them below:

Lunchbox Lessons

Primary colors. Load up their lunchboxes with a colorful mix of fruits and vegetables to keep them energized and ready to learn. Apples, pears, berries, dried fruit, baby carrots, cauliflower and edamame are easy to pack – and fun to eat.

Fluid motion. Drinking plenty of fluids helps active children stay hydrated. But not all drinks are created equal. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, kids who drink one can of soda a day increase their obesity risk by 60 percent. Offer water and limit soft drinks (some can pack 150 calories per 12-ounce can).

The whole truth. Whole grains are an important part of a health diet for kids. Offer whole-grain, low-sugar cereals at breakfast and low-sodium whole-grain snack bars or crackers in their lunch box. Try making sandwiches with whole-grain bread (look for “100 percent whole wheat” to get the most grains).

Dairy queen. Strengthen their bones and brains with non- or low-fat dairy foods, including yogurt and flavored milk (choose products with no more than 30 grams of sugar.)

Do you have any tips to share?

News article: Fighting obesity can't be done sitting down

Thursday, October 1, 2009 by Terri Hohlt

I saw this editorial in the Pensacola News Journal and thought it was full of excellent information. The first few paragraphs are below and full text can be found by clicking on the link.

Obesity causes all sorts of health-related problems ranging from high-blood pressure to diabetes to heart disease. New research now shows that being fat is quickly becoming the second-leading cause of cancer behind smoking.
Advertisement

The news is especially bad for women in Western countries in coming years as the obesity epidemic continues to put them at higher risk. Colorectal cancer, breast cancer in menopausal women and endometrial cancer accounted for 65 percent of all cancers linked to being fat.

Scientists still aren't sure why being fat boosts cancer risks, but suspect it is connected to hormones. As people become fatter, they produce more hormones like estrogen that help tumors grow. People with big bellies also have more acid in their stomachs, which can lead to stomach, intestinal or esophageal cancer.

Recipe: Chicken with Lemon-Caper Sauce

Wednesday, September 30, 2009 by Tina Carmichael

Here is another great recipe from the October issue of Cooking Light Magazine. This recipe will also work for those patients on the Liver Reduction Diet.

Chicken with Lemon-Caper Sauce

4 - six oz. skinless boneless chicken breast halves
¼ teas. Salt
¼ teas. Black pepper
3 Tabl. Flour
Butter flavored spray
½ cup fat-free less sodium chicken broth
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
2 Tabl. Capers drained
3 Tabl. Minced flat-leaf parsley

Place chicken between 2 sheets of plastic wrap; pound to an even thickness using a meat mallet or small heavy skillet. Sprinkle chicken evenly with salt and pepper. Place flour in a shallow dish; dredge chicken in flour.
Spray large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken to pan; cook 3 minutes turn chicken over add broth, juice, and capers; reduce heat to medium and simmer 3 minutes, basting chicken occasionally with sauce. Sprinkle with parsley; cook 1 minute. Remove chicken from pan: keep warm.
Bring sauce to a boil; cook 2 minutes or until thick. Serve over chicken.

Calories 267, Fat 7.9grams, Protein 40.5 g, Carbs 6.4g Fiber 0.6g Chol 114 mg. Iron 1.9 mg. Sodium 476 mg. Calc. 30 mg.

Did you know?

Wednesday, September 30, 2009 by Andy Pollen

Bariatric surgery is recognized as the most effective and durable method for persons who are morbidly obese to lose their excess weight and keep it off for many years. It is NOT a quick fix. It is NOT taking the "easy way out."

The benefits of bariatric surgery are numerous:

Longer Life – Studies show that gastric bypass surgery can improve your life expectancy by as much as 89%.

Reduced Health Problems – Severe obesity is associated with at least 50 diseases, including diabetes, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, fatty liver, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, gout and various skeletal and joint problems. Bariatric surgery has been proven extremely successful in eliminating or dramatically reducing most of these health problems. For example, 80% of non-insulin dependent diabetics are cured as a result of gastric bypass. Sleep apnea patients enjoy uninterrupted sleep within a year of surgery, and half of the patients with high blood pressure come of their medications within a few months of surgery.

Psychological Benefits – Bariatric surgery can also help reduce the stress and anxiety associated with obesity. With a new self-image, issues like depression and fear of social situations can be overcome. A new desire and ability to interact with family and friends is also a common benefit following bariatric treatment.

Want to learn more about how Indiana weight loss surgery can help you? Then join us at a FREE informational seminar where Indianapolis bariatric surgeons and staff will discuss treatment options. Learn more by clicking here.

Eating breakfast can save you eating more calories later in the day

Friday, September 25, 2009 by Tina Carmichael

WebMD the Magazine reported in the September issue an interesting study result from The Endocrine Society at its 2009 annual meeting.

“You’ve heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but did you know it’s also the most important meal of your diet? A new study shows that skipping the first meal tricks your brain into thinking you want higher-calorie foods later in the day."

Researchers used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to look at how feeding behaviors affected the brain’s reward center. They studied 20 healthy, non-obese people who skipped breakfast before an fMRI. While showing them pictures of high calorie foods, such as pizza, and pictures of low-calorie foods, such as salad, the participants’ reward center became more active when they say the high-calorie foods. When people in the study did eat breakfast, their brains’ reward center did not show and greater activity when looking at photos of the pizza.

Just some food for thought!

Grab N Go snack ideas from Obesity Help, Part II

Friday, September 25, 2009 by Traci Baker

Just continuing my list from Tuesday with more grab n' go snack items. Thanks to Obesity Help for these great ideas!

Jerky
Jerky is available in many proteins: beef, turkey, ham and salmon to name a few. Jerky is a snack that you can put in your purse, briefcase or desk and can be readily available without any preparation. Jerky can be home-made to cut down on the sodium. Jerky is made in various flavors such as bar-b-que, jalapeno, teriyaki and peppered.
Nutrition Bite: 1 ounce of beef jerky is 116 calories

Yogurt
There are many flavor and brand choices of low-calorie and fat-free yogurts. Yogurt is a nutritional food with unique health benefits. It is nutritionally rich in protein, calcium, riboflavin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12 and contains healthy bacteria to aid in digestion.
Nutrition Bite: 1 container of Greek yogurt is 120 calories

Packaged & Deli Sliced Meats
Portable snacks now include protein options. Manufacturers have responded to the public’s appreciation of protein as a snack by packaging flavored tuna and chicken in pouches and serving size cans. You can also get packages of luncheon meat that are thinly deli sliced that are equal in nutrition to other snacks.
Nutrition Bite: Smoked and deli-sliced turkey is 114 calories

Dried Snacks
Individual sized bags filled with your favorite cereals, granolas, protein chips, cracker sandwiches (with cheese or peanut butter) are a quick grab. You can also purchase high-protein snacks from many vendors that sell healthy snacks friendly to weight loss surgery pre and post-ops.
Nutrition Bite: 1 rye cracker sandwich with cheese filling is 34 calories

Nuts
Nuts, specifically almonds and walnuts, are a nutritious and energy packed snack. Nuts add protein to your dietary intake and are a low glycemic index food. Nuts are frequently recommended as a snack for insulin resistance problems associated with type 2 diabetes.
Nutrition Bite: 1 ounce of whole almonds is 163 calories

Sugar Free, Fat Free Gelatin and Pudding
A favorite snack of long-term post-ops and early post-ops alike are sugar- free, fat-free gelatins and puddings. Smooth and creamy can be soothing and filling to a irritable pouch. For a boost of protein, sprinkle unflavored protein powder over the top. Sugar free, fat free gelatin and puddings can also satisfy the most persistent sweet tooth.
Nutrition Bite: ½ cup portion of sugar free gelatin is 8.6 calories, 3.5 ounces of vanilla fat-free pudding is 88 calories

Grab ‘n go snacks are fast and easy. Just as you have a bag ready when you go to the hospital, pack your grab ‘n go items the night before or even as little as a couple of hours before you leave so they are ready to go when you are.

If you plan ahead, you’ll be ready to grab ‘n go regardless of your schedule. When you are prepared with healthy food choices, it results in staying on track with your weight loss surgery success.

Recipe: Grilled Chicken with Mustard-Tarragon Sauce

Tuesday, September 22, 2009 by Tina Carmichael

I found this recipe in the October issue of Cooking Light magazine and it is perfect for patients on the Liver Reduction Diet.

Grilled Chicken with Mustard-Tarragon Sauce

4 six ounce skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
½ teas. Salt divided
¼ teas. Black pepper divided
Cooking spray
3 Tabl. Minced shallots
3 Tabl. Dijon mustard
2 Tabl red wine vinegar
2 Tabl. Spoons water
1 and 1/2 teas. extra-virgin olive oil
1 teas. Chopped fresh tarragon
½ teas. Sugar substitute
4 cups gourmet salad greens

Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat.
Sprinkle chicken evenly with ¼ teas. Salt and 1/8 teas. Pepper.
Coat pan with cooking spray. Place chicken in pan; cook 6 minutes on each side or until done.
Combine remaining ¼ teas. Salt, and next 6 ingredients (through sugar substitute) in a bowl, stirring well with a whisk.
Serve chicken over greens with sauce

This recipe is four servings, and each serving will have one breast half, one cup of greens and two tablespoons of sauce.

You will get 231 Calories 7.6 grams of fat, 35.4 grams of protein and only a whopping 3 grams of carbs! Yay! 1.3 grams of fiber 2mg of Iron 51 mg of calcium and 538 mg of sodium leave of the salt if you are watching your sodium content.

Enjoy!