Nairobi News

Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, has gained significant attention in recent years as a potential solution for individuals struggling with severe obesity and its associated health issues. 

While the procedures offer remarkable weight loss results, the debate surrounding their long-term effectiveness and overall impact on individuals’ lives remains fervent. The prevalence of obesity has reached alarming levels worldwide, contributing to a myriad of health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems.

Weight loss surgery has emerged as a promising tool for individuals who have been unable to achieve sustainable weight loss through conventional methods like diet and exercise. 

Procedures like gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, and adjustable gastric banding have gained popularity due to their ability to induce rapid and significant weight reduction. For some individuals, weight loss surgery can indeed be a life-saving intervention. Those with morbid obesity often face imminent health risks, and surgery can provide them with a chance to reverse or prevent further complications. 

In Kenya, we have seen renowned celebrities like actresses Jackie Matubia and Kate Actress venture into weight loss procedures which they have not shied away from sharing with their fans on social media. Kate actress announced last year that she had decided on an alternative way to lose weight as she was struggling to lose it.

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The actress later shared that she had undergone the gastric Allurion procedure which according to her was a lifesaver. The mother of two has lost a great amount of weight in her recent pictures and videos.

In a video posted by a local blog, she stated that there are two types of procedures, Allurion, and silicon.

She also added that she opted for Allurion which she received and only lasts for six months while silicon which lasts for eight months. Kate actress disclosed that the procedure only proves effective and works if one learns how to control their food portion intake and workouts. “If you don’t learn portion control and how to eat light and move your body utakuwa unafanya zero work. You still have to put in some work.”

Other celebrities known to have undergone weight loss procedures include content creator Murugi Munyi, TV presenter Willis Raburu, and TikToker Kelvin Kinuthia.

Dramatic weight loss following surgery can lead to improved insulin sensitivity, reduced blood pressure, and alleviation of obstructive sleep apnea. Furthermore, such surgeries might enable patients to engage more actively in physical activities and experience an overall enhancement in their quality of life.

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Beyond physical changes, weight loss surgery can profoundly affect an individual’s mental and emotional well-being. Many people who undergo these procedures report a boost in self-esteem and body confidence as they witness their bodies transforming. However, there’s a caveat: some individuals might develop unrealistic expectations regarding their post-surgery appearance, potentially leading to body dysmorphia or dissatisfaction if results don’t align with their ideals.

Critics of weight loss surgery often argue that it offers a short-term fix rather than a sustainable, long-lasting solution. While the initial weight loss can be substantial, some patients may eventually regain weight due to a variety of factors.

Dietary habits, psychological factors, and changes in metabolism can contribute to weight regain, leading to a cycle of disappointment and frustration. This raises questions about the effectiveness of weight loss surgery as a lifelong strategy for weight management.

To maximize the benefits of weight loss surgery and transform it into a genuine life-saver, comprehensive lifestyle changes are essential. Post-surgery, individuals must adopt healthier eating habits, engage in regular physical activity, and address psychological factors through therapy or support groups. The surgery itself can serve as a catalyst for these changes, but sustained efforts are necessary to ensure the weight loss is maintained over the long term.

Weight loss surgery undoubtedly has the potential to be both a life-saving intervention and a short-term fix, depending on various individual factors and how it’s approached. While the immediate impact on health and well-being can be transformative, the true success of weight loss surgery lies in the commitment to long-term lifestyle changes.