Weight loss for diabetics can be difficult. Diabetes is tied to obesity and both have reached epidemic proportions. The percentage of adults with diabetes was around 8.5% in 2014 and has continued to increase. Maintaining normal body weight and regular exercise are the best way to avoid Type 2 diabetes. To many who have diabetes, this can feel impossible. They have tried just about everything to lose weight. They often find themselves in a cycle of losing and gaining that never seems to end.  

Bariatric surgery, also known as metabolic surgery, is a powerful tool against diabetes and obesity. There are several types of bariatric surgeries that help manage diabetes—and, in some cases, even resolve it. These include a gastric sleeve, gastric band, duodenal switch, and gastric bypass. A gastric bypass has the highest success rate for diabetic remission.  

What Is Gastric Bypass Surgery?

The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is a surgery that changes the gastrointestinal tract. A surgeon will divide the stomach. This leaves a small pouch and a larger pouch of the stomach. The small pouch is left to hold food. The large pouch, also known as the gastric remnant, is bypassed. This limits how much food you can eat and drink. 

The surgeon then removes the small intestine from the large pouch and attaches it to the small pouch. This allows the food to move from the small pouch then through the small intestine. The large pouch will continue to function and create digestive juices that break down foods. 

What Are the Benefits of Gastric Bypass Surgery for Diabetics?

Remission of Type 2 Diabetes

The significant benefit of gastric bypass surgery is the 80% remission of diabetes. This benefit is not related to weight loss. Blood sugar levels out immediately after surgery, causing diabetes to go into remission. 

Hormone Changes

There are also hormone changes that take place. For instance, there is an increase in the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) hormone, which is produced by the intestines. This is the hormone that stimulates insulin secretion in the pancreas. It stops glucagon secretion. It also directly stimulates receptors in the brain that increase your ability to feel “full” faster—and for longer periods of time.  

Other Health Issues Resolved

Many who suffer from Type 2 diabetes also have some other medical conditions. Several of these conditions have been shown to reduce or resolve after gastric bypass surgery. For instance, blood pressure issues have returned to normal. They no longer have high cholesterol. Their sleep apnea is under control, and triglyceride levels are now normal. 

Weight Loss

Outside of the overall health benefits of gastric bypass is the benefit of weight loss. Many who have struggled their whole lives to lose weight and keep it off are now able to with the help of surgery. 

Weight loss affects the whole person. Not only do you feel better physically, but you feel better emotionally. You can now do the things you have always wanted to do. You are no longer carrying the burden of the extra weight. It may also be easier now to build up your self-confidence. 

It is important to note that all of these changes will still take work—both physically and mentally. You didn't end up with these health issues overnight. You will have to follow the strict diet plan provided by your doctor. The difference is that you can now break the cycle of yo-yo dieting, and other temporary solutions. 

BASS Bariatric Surgery Center is here to help bring remission to your diabetes and weight loss issues. Speak to one of our specialists today. They will answer any questions you have and can schedule you for a consultation.