Category: Obesity

Maintain Your Weight Loss After LAP-Band Surgery

Posted on December 2, 2024

A pair of feet on a scale belonging to a person who wants to maintain weight loss after LAP-Band surgery.

Bariatric surgery, like the LAP-Band procedure, is only the beginning of your weight loss journey. After surgery, there are still steps you need to take to achieve your weight loss goals. The surgeons at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery are here to offer advice to help you maintain weight loss after LAP-Band surgery.

What is a LAP-Band?

The LAP-Band is just one of many options available for weight loss surgery today. It involves a hollow band being placed around the upper end of the stomach to create a small pouch and narrow passage into the lower portion of the stomach.

By reducing the stomach’s capacity, the LAP-Band induces weight loss. It is rather effective, with an expected loss of about 40% of excess weight within two years. A bariatric surgeon at BMI can help you determine if this procedure is right for you.

How to Maintain Your Weight After LAP-Band Surgery

While bariatric surgery, including the LAP-Band procedure, is effective in helping patients lose weight, it is possible to regain weight afterward. This is a common occurrence, with 1 in 4 patients regaining weight lost within 10 years.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to maintain your weight loss after your procedure. Like other lifestyle changes, these steps should be implemented under the guidance of your bariatric surgeon and primary care physician.

Diet

After any bariatric procedure, you will need to change your eating habits. To start, you will need to eat smaller portions of food as your stomach capacity is reduced. You should also add filling foods higher in nutrients, like protein and fiber, to your diet.

If you’re unsure which diet is right for you, consider taking a nutrition class designed for those who have had or are considering bariatric surgery. BMI offers such classes to our patients through a partnership with St. Vincent’s Hospital in Birmingham.

Exercise

As soon as you can do so after surgery, start exercising, as it can help you maintain your weight loss. You only need around 30 minutes per day of moderate exercise to achieve your weight loss goals. Some exercises that are ideal for those who have had bariatric surgery include:

Aerobic Exercises – Walking, running, and cycling help you build endurance and stamina as you begin exercising.
Joint Exercises – Swimming, yoga, and Tai Chi are exercises that are gentle on the joints while still increasing your balance.
Strength Training – Along with lifting weights, consider doing squats, pull-ups, and other exercises that strengthen your muscles.

While many exercises can be done at home, some patients find joining a gym or fitness class adds a social component, which helps them enjoy these activities more.

Join a Support Group

Seeking the support of others on your weight loss journey can help you achieve your goals. Having someone to encourage you and that you can lean on for emotional support can be a valuable asset.

While friends or family members can fulfill this role, having others in your exact situation can be helpful. Joining a weight loss support group, like those hosted by BMI, can help you find that support.

Revisional Weight Loss Surgery

As effective as surgery can be for weight loss, not every procedure is right for every patient. If you find you’re not seeing the results you desire after your bariatric procedure, revisional weight loss surgery may be an option.

One such procedure is a LAP-Band conversion, during which the LAP-Band is removed, and a gastric sleeve is performed. Your surgeon can help you determine if you are a good candidate for this type of procedure.

Manage Your Weight With BMI

Managing your weight, especially after bariatric surgery, can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. Through nutrition classes, support groups, and other resources, BMI makes reaching your weight loss goals easy. For more information, contact us at (205) 858-1211.

Maintain Your Weight With BMI

If you have had bariatric surgery and want to maintain your weight, the BMI team is here to help. We offer nutrition classes, support groups, and resources designed to help you reach your weight loss goals. To get started, contact us at (205) 858-1211.

How Does the Stomach Work?

Posted on November 22, 2024

A physician is showing a patient how the stomach works using a model they are holding in their hands.

The stomach is an organ that is an essential part of your digestive system. However, you may not have given much thought to how it works. Fortunately, the BMI team is here to explain how the stomach works, conditions that may affect it, and more.

What is the Stomach?

The stomach is a muscular, hollow, J-shaped organ located in the upper abdomen that is made up of several parts, which include:

Cardia

The first part of the stomach, the cardia, is connected to the esophagus. It contains the cardiac sphincter, a thin ring of muscle that prevents stomach contents from going back up into the esophagus, a condition known commonly as acid reflux.

Fundus

The top, rounded area of the stomach is known as the fundus. It is located to the left of the cardia.

Body

The main part of the stomach is known as the body. It is where food is mixed and broken down. The average adult’s stomach holds around one liter of food.

Antrum

The lower part of the stomach is called the antrum. It holds food until it is ready to move into the small intestine.

Pylorus

The part of the stomach connected to the small intestine is called the pylorus. It includes a thick ring of muscle known as the pyloric sphincter, which controls the emptying of stomach contents into the first part of the small intestine.

How the Stomach Works

The stomach’s main function is to digest food received from the esophagus. The food is then mixed with acid to be broken down into a liquid before moving into the small intestine.

What Conditions Affect the Stomach?

Many diseases and other conditions can affect the stomach, such as:

Gastritis

Often caused by the bacteria Helicobacter Pylori, gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining. Common symptoms of this condition include:

Nausea
Vomiting
Bloating
Abdominal pain
A feeling of fullness

While this condition can be managed using medication, like antacids, you should avoid certain foods, drinks, or medicines that may irritate your stomach.

Ulcers

Ulcers are open sores in the stomach, which often cause bleeding or pain. They can be caused by bacterial infections or stress. While prescription medication can be used to treat ulcers, surgery may sometimes be required.

Stomach Cancer

Tumors may form in the stomach lining. While many are benign, some can turn malignant. Symptoms of stomach cancer include:

Bleeding
Weight loss
Indigestion
Heartburn
Changes in appetite
Bloating

If you notice any of these signs, contact your doctor. They can refer you for stomach cancer screening and treatment. The sooner cancer is found, the more treatable it is.

Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis is a condition where the stomach empties slower than normal. It is common in individuals with diabetes or those who have had procedures that affect the stomach, like bariatric surgery. Common symptoms of gastroparesis include:

Nausea
Vomiting
Bloating
Belching
Abdominal pain
Feelings of fullness

While there is no cure, gastroparesis can be managed with medication and dietary adjustments. If you are considering bariatric surgery, your surgeon will discuss your risk factors with you and create a treatment plan based on them.

Acid Reflux

Also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), acid reflux is a digestive disorder that occurs when the muscle between the esophagus and stomach weakens, allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus.

Frequent heartburn is one of the most common symptoms of acid reflux. It is easily manageable with diet and medication. However, in some severe cases, surgery may be required. Your physician can help you determine how to best manage acid reflux.

Gastroenteritis

Commonly known as the “stomach flu,” gastroenteritis is an infection that clears on its own within a few days. It can be caused by consuming food or water containing certain types of bacteria or parasites. Common symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea, which can be managed with rest and fluids.

Keep Your Stomach Healthy at BMI

Along with diet and exercise, regularly seeing your physician can help you keep your stomach healthy. If you’ve had stomach surgery, including weight loss procedures, consulting with a specialist, like those at BMI, can be especially helpful. To schedule a consultation with one of our bariatric surgeons, contact us at (205) 858-1211.

Care for Your Stomach at BMI

Caring for your stomach goes beyond your diet. Partnering with a specialist, like those at BMI, can help you keep it healthy for years to come. To learn how we can help you manage and treat certain stomach conditions, contact us at (205) 858-1211.

Thyroid Disease: What it is & How to Prevent it

Posted on November 12, 2024

A female doctor wearing a mask examines the throat of a young woman for thyroid disease at a clinic.

The thyroid is a gland that regulates metabolism and maintains energy levels and heart rate. Because of all the critical body functions it plays a role in, thyroid disease can affect your health in various ways. Thyroid conditions are common, affecting about 20 million Americans. At BMI, we have extensive experience treating these disorders, so we have compiled some information to help you manage them.

What is Thyroid Disease?

Thyroid disease is an umbrella term for several disorders that affect the thyroid gland and related bodily functions. These include:

Hyperthyroidism – The thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone.
Hypothyroidism – The thyroid gland produces too little thyroid hormone.
Goiter – An enlargement of the thyroid gland, resulting in swelling of the neck.
Thyroid Nodules – Non-cancerous, asymptomatic lumps in the thyroid gland.
Thyroid Cancer – A type of cancer involving malignant growth in the thyroid.

Regardless of which condition you have, it is critical to consult an endocrine specialist, like those at BMI, to find the best possible treatment.

Symptoms of Thyroid Disease

Because thyroid disease takes many forms, symptoms can vary depending on the condition. Common symptoms of thyroid issues include:

Weight gain
Sleep issues
Irregular heart rate
Appetite changes
Mood changes
Hair loss
Heat or cold intolerance

Even if symptoms are mild, they can still impact your quality of life. If they are particularly disruptive to your daily routine, consult with one of BMI’s endocrine specialists, who can help you effectively treat them.

Causes of Thyroid Disease

There are many potential causes of thyroid disease because it takes many different forms. Common causes include:

Autoimmune disorders, like Graves’ disease
Inflammation of the thyroid gland
Surgical removal of the thyroid gland
Certain medications, such as lithium
Iodine and other nutrient deficiencies
Lifestyle causes like stress or lack of exercise
Genetics, as thyroid conditions can be hereditary
Gender, as thyroid conditions are more common in women

Regardless of the cause, your physician can assess your personal risk factors and develop a custom treatment plan to address your specific thyroid condition.

How to Prevent Thyroid Disease

While many thyroid conditions are genetics and not preventable, some can be prevented through:

A healthy diet
Regular exercise
Reducing stress
Getting enough sleep
Quitting smoking, if you do

By following these steps, you can potentially prevent various types of thyroid disease.

How We Diagnose Thyroid Disease

At BMI, we take a comprehensive approach to the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid conditions. Below is our process.

Medical History

Certain thyroid conditions are hereditary, so we look at your family medical history to determine if this may be the case.

Physical Exam

Your doctor gently feels your neck for swelling or other signs of inflammation that come with thyroid conditions.

Imaging

We use ultrasound and nuclear medicine to look for thyroid nodules, goiters, or other signs of thyroid conditions.

Blood Test

A blood test that measures TSH levels can be used to diagnose both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.

How to Treat Thyroid Disease

While you can manage some symptoms of thyroid disease at home, it is best to consult an endocrine specialist who can create a treatment plan, which may include:

Radioactive Iodine Therapy

Radioactive iodine therapy works by delivering radiation to the thyroid gland, which prevents it from producing high levels of thyroid hormone. This treatment can be administered orally as a liquid or capsule or injected into a vein. It’s typically a one-time treatment performed at an outpatient facility.

Medication

Medications, including anti-thyroid drugs like methimazole and propylthiouracil, can prevent the thyroid from producing too many hormones. Meanwhile, beta-blockers can help manage symptoms like increased heart rates. Your physician can recommend which type of medication is right for you and your condition.

Surgery

For thyroid conditions that cannot be controlled with medication, surgery may be required. Depending on the condition being treated, all or part of the thyroid gland may be removed. Consulting with a surgeon, like those at BMI, can help you determine if this would be an appropriate treatment for your condition.

Manage Your Thyroid Disease With BMI

Symptoms of thyroid disease can affect your daily routine. With effective treatment from BMI, you can get back to normal faster. Our team specializes in endocrine disorders, so we can create a custom treatment plan that is tailored to your needs. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us at (205) 858-1211.

Find Effective Thyroid Disease Treatment at BMI

If you have thyroid disease, contact BMI at (205) 858-1211. Our team can create a treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your condition and allows you to continue your daily activities. Schedule an appointment today to get started!

Understanding Acid Reflux: Symptoms & Solutions

Posted on October 30, 2024

A man in a purple shirt holding his stomach experiencing acid reflux after eating spicy takeout food on his grey couch.

While it’s normal to have heartburn after a heavy meal, frequently experiencing it can be a sign of acid reflux. This common condition affects about 20% of Americans. At BMI, we have experience treating this gastrointestinal condition and others, so we’ve compiled some information to help you better manage it.

What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a chronic condition caused by the lower esophageal sphincter not closing properly, allowing stomach acid to leak or reflux into the esophagus. When stomach acid touches the lining of the esophagus, it causes a burning sensation in the chest or throat called heartburn. Heartburn that occurs more than twice a week is a possible sign of acid reflux.

Symptoms of Acid Reflux

Like any other gastrointestinal health issue, recognizing the signs of acid reflux and seeking timely treatment is crucial in managing it. Common symptoms include:

Frequent heartburn
Acid regurgitation
Chest pains
Hoarse voice
Difficulty swallowing
Tightness in the throat
Dry cough
Bad breath

Even if your symptoms are mild, they may still impact your quality of life and eating habits. If your symptoms are particularly disruptive to your daily routine, schedule an appointment with one of BMI’s gastrointestinal specialists, who can help you effectively treat them.

Causes of Acid Reflux

While acid reflux is commonly caused by consuming certain foods and beverages, other risk factors for developing this condition include:

Hiatal Hernia
Obesity
Pregnancy
Smoking

Regardless of the cause, your physician will assess your condition to develop a custom treatment plan to address your acid reflux. To learn about your personal risk factors, contact BMI for a consultation.

How to Prevent Acid Reflux

Like any chronic condition, acid reflux can be painful and disruptive to your lifestyle. Fortunately, it is easily preventable. Below are some simple ways you can prevent this condition.

Eat smaller meals at a slower pace
Avoid lying down after eating
Sleep on an incline
If you smoke, try quitting
Lose weight if you are overweight or obese
Avoid trigger foods and beverages, including:
- Fatty or fried foods
- Acidic foods or beverages
- Caffeine
- Alcohol

By following these steps, you can prevent acid reflux. For more advice, schedule a consultation with one of our specialists.

How We Diagnose Acid Reflux

At BMI, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating acid reflux. Below is our process.

Medical History

As acid reflux can be hereditary. We look at your family medical history to determine if this might be the case in your situation.

Proton Pump Inhibitor

We prescribe a proton pump inhibitor to see how you respond to this medication before moving on to more intensive treatments.

Barium Swallow Radiograph

We use an X-ray to spot abnormalities like hiatal hernias and severe inflammation of the esophagus, which may contribute to acid reflux.

Endoscopy

An endoscopy can identify inflammation, acid damage, ulcers, and other signs of acid reflux, making it an effective method of diagnosis.

How to Treat Acid Reflux

While you can manage mild heartburn at home, it is best to consult with a gastrointestinal specialist, like those at BMI, to treat acid reflux. They can assess the underlying cause of your condition to develop a treatment plan, which may include:

Diet

Since acid reflux is triggered by certain foods and beverages, avoiding them may help you to better manage your condition. Keep a food diary to discover what your specific symptom triggers are in order to avoid them. Most commonly, it is triggered by fatty or acidic foods, caffeine, and alcohol.

Medication

Medications, including antacids, foaming agents, H2 receptor blockers, and proton pump inhibitors, can help manage your symptoms. For milder cases, over-the-counter medication is sufficient, but more severe cases may require prescription medications. Your physician can recommend which is right for you.

Surgery

In patients that have reflux not controlled with medication, surgery may be required once all other non-surgical treatment options have been exhausted. Consulting with a gastrointestinal surgeon, like those at BMI, can help you determine if this is the case based on your condition.

Manage Your Acid Reflux With BMI

If you’re experiencing heartburn that won’t subside with diet and lifestyle changes, contact BMI at (205) 858-1211. Our team can help you create a treatment plan that will address the root cause of your condition and allow you to continue your regular activities without discomfort. To get started, schedule an appointment today.

Effective Acid Reflux Treatment at BMI

Acid reflux symptoms can affect your daily routine and personal comfort. Get back to normal with effective treatment from BMI. Specializing in managing gastrointestinal conditions, we can create a treatment plan customized to your needs. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us at (205) 858-1211.

Partners in Care – BMI’s Relationship With St. Vincent’s Hospital

Posted on September 3, 2024

A high-rise urban hospital building with a large “H” on the side with a cloudy blue sky in the background. Home to a bariatric surgical center.

Choosing where to have surgery, especially for weight loss, is a major decision that requires a lot of research and consideration. You want to know that your safety and comfort will be prioritized. With 63% of all bariatric procedures in the United States performed in outpatient settings, you may think that you do not need the resources of a hospital in this situation.

However, choosing a bariatric surgical center with a connection to a hospital can provide peace of mind, knowing you have extra support in an emergency situation. Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery is proud to have such a partnership with St. Vincent’s Hospital in Birmingham, AL. Below, we highlight the numerous benefits this relationship provides to our patients.

Benefits of Choosing a Surgical Center Connected to a Hospital

Along with additional support in the event of an emergency, choosing a bariatric surgical center connected to a hospital offers a variety of benefits, which we discuss below. Please note that your personal risks and benefits may vary. Your surgeon will discuss these with you as part of your initial consultation for your procedure.

1. Education & Training

To better serve our patients, the team at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery participates in ongoing education on various weight loss procedures and topics. Much of this education has come from our relationship with St. Vincent’s Hospital. This has allowed us to offer seminars to other providers to help them better understand the needs of patients seeking bariatric care.

Our partnership with St. Vincent’s Hospital has also allowed us to provide educational programming and informative resources, such as online nutrition classes and support groups, to our current and prospective patients in Birmingham, AL. By providing educational resources on weight-related topics, we empower patients to make more well-informed decisions regarding their care.

2. More Customized Care

Each patient is unique, so we customize their care to meet their needs. Each procedure starts with an initial consultation, where we discuss the patient’s desired outcome. Then, we create a care plan based on this conversation. Sometimes, that involves the support of partners outside of our surgical center.

In the case of patients with extremely high BMIs or those who require more invasive procedures, like revisional weight loss surgery, we recommend they have their surgery at St. Vincent’s Hospital. However, we will continue to support the patient by providing any necessary referrals and follow-up appointments.

3. Emergency Assistance

Like with any surgical procedure, bariatric surgery comes with a risk of complications. While most procedures can be done on an outpatient basis, a partnership with a hospital can provide peace of mind. Often, these complications require support beyond what is available at the surgical center.

In the event of an emergency, a patient can be easily transferred to a hospital for additional care. Most patients do not experience these issues during bariatric surgery, though your individual risks may vary. Your surgeon can discuss these with you at your initial consultation before your procedure.

4. Increased Affordability

While some insurance policies cover bariatric surgery, many do not, which can make accessing this type of care costly. Through hospital partnerships, bariatric surgical centers like BMI can negotiate more affordable rates for their patients.

This is how BMI is able to offer one of the lowest prices for a gastric sleeve in the United States. We also offer financing options for patients who qualify. If you are in need of such assistance, please inquire about it at your initial consultation.

5. Consistent Care

Many hospitals have primary care clinics that can refer patients to surgical centers like BMI for bariatric treatment. Through a relationship with one of these hospitals, surgical centers can easily access patient records to provide more consistent care.

Primary care physicians also have easier access to their patients’ records from the surgical center, allowing them to provide the necessary follow-up care. This saves patients the time and hassle of obtaining records and sharing them with providers.

Find the Right Bariatric Surgical Center in Alabama

The decision to have weight loss surgery should not be taken lightly. This includes the choice of where to have the procedure done. Choosing a bariatric surgical center that partners with a local hospital, like Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, offers a variety of benefits. To learn more about our bariatric surgical center and its partnership with St. Vincent’s Hospital in Birmingham, contact us at (205) 858-1211.

Learn More About BMI’s Partnership with St. Vincent’s Hospital

Finding the right bariatric surgical center to help you reach your weight loss goals can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery’s partnership with St. Vincent’s Hospital provides you with the options you need for your bariatric treatment. Contact us to learn more about this partnership or any of the procedures we offer at (205) 858-1211.

Why Not Everyone Can Lose Weight with Diet & Exercise Alone

Posted on August 15, 2024

A heart-shaped bowl of produce on a table surrounded by a glass, weights, sneakers, a stethoscope, and a prescription script.

Losing weight and keeping it off can be challenging. While diet and exercise are important to maintaining a healthy weight, they may not be effective for everyone. Today, there are many options available to those looking to lose weight. The bariatric surgeons at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery are here to explore these options and how they can help you achieve your goals.

What Are My Options for Weight Loss?

Starting a weight loss program is a common experience, with half of American adults attempting to lose weight in the past year alone. That doesn’t mean that it can’t be challenging. With so many options to choose from, you may not know where to start. Below, we discuss some common methods individuals use to lose weight.

Diet

Eating a healthy diet is an essential first step in any weight loss journey. Reducing the number of calories you consume, along with choosing healthier options, can help you kickstart your journey. If you’re not sure how to start eating healthier, consider signing up for a nutrition class. You will learn about the health benefits of certain foods and how to prepare them in a way that is both nutritious and delicious.

Diet is especially important for those who have had weight loss surgery, like a gastric sleeve. The nature of some of these procedures requires you to modify your eating habits to avoid regaining any weight you may have lost. You may need to eat smaller portions or different foods. Your bariatric surgeon can provide you with a detailed diet plan to help you maximize the weight loss benefits of your procedure.

Exercise

Both the number of calories you consume and the amount you use are important to consider when trying to lose weight. You want to burn more calories than you consume. Exercise can help you to do that. However, it is not always effective on its own and should be combined with other methods, like a healthy diet.

If you’ve had weight loss surgery, exercise can help you maximize the benefits provided by your procedure. Starting a fitness regimen can begin soon after your surgery with walking or other gentle exercises. Your bariatric surgeon can help you to determine the amount and types of activities you can safely partake in.

Medication

While still fairly new, weight loss medications like Ozempic have been proven to be effective for those looking to lose a significant amount of weight. They are recommended for individuals with a BMI over 30. Like any medication, there is a risk of side effects. You may also need to follow a special diet and exercise plan while taking the medication. Your doctor can help you to determine if this option is right for you.

Bariatric Surgery

Although you should attempt to lose weight through non-surgical methods first, sometimes, surgery may be the only option to help you reach your goals. If that is the case, there are a variety of different surgical procedures available to help you lose weight, including:

Gastric Sleeve

A gastric sleeve, or sleeve gastrectomy, works by changing the size and structure of your stomach in order to limit the amount of calories you can consume from food.

Gastric Bypass

A gastric bypass involves creating a small stomach pouch to which a section of the small intestine is attached to reduce the absorption of nutrients and calorie intake.

LAP-Band

A LAP-Band is a device that is placed around part of your stomach to reduce its capacity and, therefore, the amount of food that you can consume.

Gastric Balloon

A gastric balloon is a device placed into the stomach to help you feel fuller faster. Due to its temporary nature, it is a less invasive option compared to other procedures.

Regardless of which procedure you choose, surgery is only recommended for those with a BMI over 30 or who have other health concerns. While surgical options are very effective, you may regain weight over time and require revisional weight loss surgery. A consultation with a bariatric surgeon, like those at BMI, can help you explore your options.

Discover Effective Weight Loss Solutions at BMI

With so many options available for weight loss today, you may be wondering which one is best. The team at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery is here to help you explore these options and select the best one for your needs. To get started on your weight loss journey, contact us at (205) 858-1211.

Explore Your Options for Weight Loss at BMI

When you want weight loss solutions that are safe and effective, look no further than Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery. We offer a variety of both surgical and non-surgical options to our patients to help them reach their weight loss goals. To explore these options, contact us to schedule a consultation at (205) 858-1211.

Losing the Weight & Losing the Stigma: A Weight Loss Revolution

Posted on July 1, 2024

A white scale and a yellow measuring tape on a plain background.

Weight is a topic that is still heavily stigmatized in modern society. As a result, many people are not seeking the treatment they need for obesity and other health conditions. It is estimated that 53% of people who are overweight have reported that their own physicians have made inappropriate comments about their weight.

At Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, our team specializes in weight loss, so we know how to handle conversations about weight with compassion and empathy. We understand our patients have many physical and emotional needs, so we do all we can to meet them, including reducing the stigma related to weight.

What is Weight-Related Stigma?

Weight stigma consists of discriminatory attitudes and actions taken towards individuals due to their weight. As a result, individuals who face weight stigma have lower self-esteem and confidence, which can lead to mental health issues like depression. It stems from societal beliefs that perceive those who are overweight as lacking willpower, having poor moral character, and other negative qualities.

The Impact of Weight-Related Stigma on Weight Loss

While some argue stigmatization will motivate individuals to lose weight, the reality is exactly the opposite. Obesity affects people from all walks of life. These individuals are often motivated to improve their health and appearance through weight loss. However, they find the stigma around weight limits them. They fear judgment from friends, family, and even their own physicians, so they do not seek the care needed.

How to Reduce Weight-Related Stigma in Healthcare Settings

Physicians and surgeons, like those at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, hold a great deal of responsibility in reducing the stigma around weight. In order to best serve our patients, we take these steps to reduce weight stigma:

1. Education

At Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, our team participates in ongoing education to learn the best ways to handle various weight loss procedures and topics. As a result, we’ve been able to improve patient care by providing a variety of options for weight loss while discussing their weight in a nonjudgmental manner.

As part of our commitment to reducing weight stigma in healthcare, we offer seminars to other providers to help them better understand the needs of patients seeking treatment for weight-related concerns. We partner with St. Vincent’s Hospital in Birmingham, AL, to provide this programming to the community.

Along with educating other healthcare providers, we provide informative resources like online nutrition classes and support groups to our patients. By learning all they can about weight-related issues, patients can reduce the stigma around this topic by having conversations about it from a well-informed perspective.

2. Using Person-First Language

In our communications with patients, we use person-first language to reduce stigma. For example, we refer to patients who are obese as “people with obesity” rather than “obese people.” This allows patients to feel like their condition is being acknowledged by their doctor while not letting it define them as a person.

3. Customized Care

Understanding that each patient is unique, we customize their care to meet their needs. Each treatment starts with an initial consultation where we discuss the patient’s desired outcome and the best way to reach it. Then, we create a care plan based on this conversation. We may use a variety of non-surgical and surgical methods to help them achieve their goals.

Lose Weight Without the Stigma of BMI

Don’t let stigma hold you back from losing weight. Working with a compassionate healthcare team specializing in weight loss, like the one at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, can help you achieve your goals faster and without judgment. To get started on your weight loss journey, contact us at (205) 858-1211.

Achieve Stigma-Free Weight Loss at BMI

Regardless of your weight loss goals, you can achieve them without judgment or stigma at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery. If you have specific concerns or questions about our weight loss procedures, contact us for personalized support at (205) 858-1211.

Intuitive Eating 101: Improve Mental & Physical Wellness

Posted on December 18, 2023

What is Intuitive Eating?

An estimated 45 million Americans go on a diet each year, which shows just how important weight loss is to the average person in the US. In a world dominated by fad diets, weight loss injections, and immediate gratification, it can be challenging to have a healthy relationship with the way you eat.

If you’ve attempted all the latest dieting trends, it’s time to release yourself from the pressures of diet culture and prioritize your well-being and health over your waist size. That’s where intuitive eating comes into play.

With intuitive eating, you can pursue a long-term solution that will leave you full and happy. Intuitive dieting also goes hand in hand with gastric bypass and weight loss surgery. Let’s explore what intuitive eating entails and how it can revolutionize how we perceive and engage with our meals.

How to Eat Intuitively

At its core, intuitive eating is about reconnecting with your body’s natural cues and signals. It involves:

Listening to your hunger and fullness
Embracing satisfaction
Rejecting the rigid rules of diet culture.

Intuitive eating is what some call a non-diet–it’s a mindset that encourages a healthy relationship with food, free from the constraints of traditional dieting.

The 10 Principles of Intuitive Eating:

Intuitive eating encourages you to trust your body and foster a more mindful approach to eating. The principles of intuitive eating include:

1. Reject the Diet Mentality

Letting go of the diet mentality means abandoning the idea that there’s a one-size-fits-all solution to health and wellness. By acknowledging that diets often lead to short-term results and long-term frustration, you can pave the way for a more sustainable and nourishing relationship with food.

2. Honor Your Hunger

Instead of suppressing hunger or adhering to strict eating schedules, learn to trust your body and eat when you’re genuinely hungry, promoting a healthier relationship with food.

3. Make Peace With Food

Banishing the concept of “good” and “bad” foods is crucial in intuitive eating. By allowing yourself to enjoy all foods in moderation, guilt, and shame are removed from the eating equation.

4. Challenge the Food Police

The food police, representing internalized thoughts or external judgments about what is “right” or “wrong” to eat, can be silenced through intuitive eating. By challenging and dismissing these thoughts, you can regain control over your eating habits and preferences.

5. Discover the Satisfaction Factor

By paying attention to flavors, textures, and the overall enjoyment of meals, you can foster a sense of satisfaction beyond mere nutritional content.

6. Feel Your Fullness

Learning to recognize and respect fullness cues is a cornerstone of intuitive eating. By eating until comfortably satisfied, you can avoid overeating and better attune yourself to your body’s needs.

7. Cope with Your Emotions with Kindness

Instead of turning to food as a coping mechanism, you should explore alternative ways to manage emotions, promoting a more balanced and mindful approach to well-being.

8. Respect Your Body

By respecting and appreciating the body you have, regardless of size or shape, a more positive and empowering relationship with food can be cultivated.

9. Movement – Feel the Difference

Exercise is reframed in intuitive eating as a way to honor and appreciate the body’s capabilities rather than a tool for punishment or compensation. Engaging in physical activity that brings joy and satisfaction is prioritized over rigid exercise regimens.

10. Gentle Nutrition

Finally, intuitive eating acknowledges the role of nutrition without fixating on strict dietary rules. It encourages making food choices that honor both your health and your taste buds, emphasizing flexibility and enjoyment over restriction.

Benefits of Intuitive Eating:

Sustainable Weight Management
Improved Mental Health
Lower BMI
Good Cholesterol
Better Digestive Health
Lowered Disordered/Emotional Eating
Raised Body Confidence

Maintain a Healthier Relationship with Eating After a Gastric Bypass

For those who have undergone weight loss surgery in Chattanooga, intuitive eating can complement the journey toward a healthier lifestyle. While surgical interventions like gastric bypass can aid in weight loss, intuitive eating provides the tools to build a sustainable and balanced relationship with food post-surgery.

Adopting the principles of intuitive eating after a gastric bypass surgery allows you to reconnect with your body, understand new hunger and fullness cues, and embrace a positive mindset towards food. By practicing intuitive eating, you can focus on your long-term health and well-being beyond the initial weight loss phase.

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National High Blood Pressure Awareness Month: Obesity 101

Posted on May 15, 2023

May is the national high blood pressure education month illustration.

Over 43% of adults in America are obese. Comparatively, nearly 47% of Americans have high blood pressure. But did you know they’re frequently connected? Not only can obesity cause insecurity and discomfort, but it can also lead to a worsening of high blood pressure, which can be life-threatening. In fact, over 65% of people suffering from obesity fall victim to high blood pressure.

In honor of National Hypertension Awareness Month, the team at BMI Surgery is discussing everything you need to know about high blood pressure and obesity. Learn the ins and outs of obesity, high blood pressure, treatments, and more.

What Is Obesity?

Obesity is a condition characterized by excess body fat relative to a person’s height. Obesity is often diagnosed by the BMI (body mass index) Scale, which has four categories: underweight, normal, overweight, and obese.

Your doctor may also measure your waist circumference to inform causes and treatments, with a BMI over 30 considered obese. Obesity isn’t just a cosmetic concern but can change the way your body functions. It can cause heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers, and high blood pressure.

What Is High Blood Pressure?

In honor of National High Blood Pressure Awareness Month, we’re taking a deep dive into obesity-induced high blood pressure. But first, let’s define what high blood pressure is. High blood pressure, also called hypertension, occurs when the force of your blood running through your blood vessels is too high.

High blood pressure is known as a “silent killer” since there are usually little to no symptoms before the condition becomes severe. Hypertension can cause life-threatening problems like heart attack, coronary artery disease, and stroke.

Can Obesity Cause Hypertension?

Obesity can cause hypertension or worsen it if you already have it. People with obesity have more fat tissue than usual, which can cause complex changes in the body in numerous ways. These can include sympathetic nervous system overactivation, insulin resistance, and kidney and hormonal changes.

Obesity-induced hypertension can be harder to treat and sometimes become resistant to medication. Since people with obesity often carry extra fat around their midsection, this excess weight puts pressure on the cardiovascular system. The heart must work harder to pump blood to organs, muscles, and tissues, which can quickly cause cardiovascular stress and other heart problems.

How Is Obesity-Induced Hypertension Treated?

Medications are available to treat hypertension, but many people with obesity are resistant to their effects because of the physical changes the body undergoes when obese. Fortunately, weight loss surgery can help treat obesity-induced hypertension. With weight loss, a healthy diet, and physical exercise, your heart becomes stronger, which can lower high blood pressure.

Weight loss surgery, or bariatric surgery, works by modifying your stomach size to reduce your appetite and reduce your calorie intake. There are different weight loss surgery techniques like gastric sleeve and LAP-BAND. Weight loss surgery should be combined with long-term lifestyle changes like regular exercise and a healthy diet to be successful.

Live a Healthier & Happier Life with BMI Surgery

While obesity and high blood pressure can severely impact your health, each of these conditions is preventable and treatable. This May, we hope you join us in raising awareness about the negative impacts of hypertension and obesity. With your help, we can lower the cases of both conditions nationwide.

If you have obesity-induced hypertension, weight loss surgery can help! Our team of experts can create a personalized treatment plan for you so that you can lead a healthier, more fulfilled life. Our board-certified surgeon, Dr. Long, would be honored to be a part of your weight loss journey!

Interested in Learning More About Weight Loss Surgery? Call Us Today!

For over 20 years, Dr. Long and his team have performed successful weight loss surgeries. If you’re ready to begin your journey toward a healthier, happier life, don’t hesitate to contact BMI Surgery today! Call us at 205-850-1973 or contact us online!

BMI Weight Loss Surgery Testimonial: “I’m Finally Happy with Me”

Posted on March 15, 2023

A young girl in black sportswear measures her waist with a centimeter on a dark gray background.

The team at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery wants to help you live your life to the fullest. Often, being chronically overweight can negatively impact our lives and cause fatigue, high blood pressure, and other health related problems. Luckily, weight loss surgery can help you achieve a healthier and happier lifestyle. Don’t just take our word for it. Amber Jones, one of our most recent weight loss patients, said, “[After my surgery], I’m finally happy with myself.”

If you’ve been going back and forth about weight loss surgery, like Amber was, we hope this blog can answer some of your questions and help you decide whether or not weight loss surgery is right for you. Before we learn more about Amber’s 85 lbs. weight loss after weight loss surgery, let’s discuss all you need to know about this procedure in Birmingham, AL.

What Is Weight Loss Surgery?

Weight loss surgery, also called bariatric surgery, reduces the stomach’s capacity to retain food. Lessening food intake results in significant weight loss and often treats other conditions that accompany obesity, like high blood pressure, fatigue, diabetes, and other health conditions.

Each of these customizable procedures offers a specific technique to decrease the capacity of your stomach. Some standard weight loss surgery techniques include Sleeve Gastrectomy, LAP-BAND, and Gastric Bypass. Our most common weight loss surgery, sleeve gastrectomy, is performed laparoscopically, and reduces stomach size by two-thirds. At BMI Surgery, Dr. Long and his team will discuss your medical history and desired results before recommending a surgical procedure that’s the best fit for you.

What Are the Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery?

There are countless benefits of weight loss surgery—take it from someone who has experienced it first-hand! “Now that I’ve had my surgery, the best thing is feeling good about myself, feeling good waking up, not being so exhausted all the time,” said Amber. This experience is common after weight loss surgery. Many people find their energy levels and overall well-being significantly improve after weight loss surgery at BMI Surgery.

Beyond the physical benefits, many patients report feeling more fulfilled, satisfied, and confident after bariatric surgery. Amber said she feels “happy and healthy.” She added, “I’m more active in my kids’ lives, and I’m a lot more present in the here and now. I’m not so worried about what other people think about me.”

With BMI Surgery, you can stop worrying about your weight and start living your life to the fullest.

Can Weight Loss Surgery Help Me If I’ve Been an Avid Dieter?

Many patients have dieted intermittently for years with little to no results. Intense dieting can be stressful and disheartening, sometimes leading to people gaining weight instead of losing it. Amber frequently dieted before her weight loss surgery but said after she had kids, “I could never seem to get it [her weight] under control.” She added, “My health had gotten so out of hand and I was ready to change my life for the better.”

If you’ve reached a point where you know your weight has gotten out of control but don’t know where to turn, BMI Surgery can help. Our compassionate team of professionals can listen to your concerns and create a treatment plan that’s right for you.

Become the Happiest Version of Yourself

At BMI Surgery, we want to empower you to be the best version of yourself. Dr. Long and his team of experts are dedicated to your overall satisfaction and well-being. After her weight loss surgery, Amber said that she couldn’t be happier with the choice she made to use Dr. Long as her surgeon, and we want you to have that same feeling when you choose BMI. Discover how you can get back to living your life to the fullest at BMI Surgery in Birmingham, AL, by calling us at (205) 833-6907 or filling out our online form.

Your Trusted Weight Loss Experts: BMI Surgery

Dr. Long is a board-certified weight loss surgeon in Birmingham, AL. We offer customized treatment plans to help you reach your weight loss goals. Call us at 205-850-1973 or schedule an appointment online, or get started on your weight loss journey today!