The stories, insights, tips, and life lessons they shared were so genuine, and incredibly moving. And it was evident from meeting them that they’ve both transformed their relationships with food and exercise in ways that can’t be “undone.” My favorite part is that they’ve been able to lose and maintain these incredible results the old fashioned way—by changing how they eat, and how they move. They both said so many things I find myself saying to clients all the time, including concepts I’ve blogged about, such as looking at food as a budget, and considering not just the “what” and “how much” behind food choices, but also the “why.”
In order to achieve the rapid results that wow Biggest Loser viewers, the contestants exercise 5+ hours a day while “on the ranch,” and they are away from their families, jobs and communities, but Ali and Roger have both been successful at making the transition back to “real life,” despite hectic schedules, traveling, work, holidays and special occasions…they’re amazing examples that you can do this—without medication or surgery.
Now I’m not bashing surgery—I do know people who’ve had gastric bypass and believe it saved their lives; but many people have told me that they think surgery is their only option for success, and I don’t believe that’s true. It’s not without risk, and there is no guarantee you’ll reach your ideal weight or maintain the weight loss.
A recent study looked at 60,000 Californians who had gastric bypass between 1995 to 2004 and found that 20% were admitted to hospitals the year after surgery, 18% two years after and 15% in the third year (only about 8% had been hospitalized the year prior to surgery). The most common reasons for being admitted included complications from the procedure.
Another recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that after 10 years, gastric bypass recipients weighed on average 25% less (that’s a new weight of 225 pounds for someone who starts at 300). That’s enough to improve a number of conditions, including diabetes and blood pressure, but these results (or greater) can be achieved without surgery. Ali, Roger, and a number of Food for Thought readers are living proof. Many of you have shared your incredible, inspiring success stories, and I invite you to please share them here again!
Would you ever consider gastric bypass surgery?
Do you know someone who has gone through with the surgery? Was his or her experience a positive one?
I'd love to hear from you!
Surgery-Free Ways to Slim Down:
Discover 100 Ways to Cut 100 Calories
Eat to Lose: Tried and True Diet Tips
Make Every Meal Healthier
