Gastric Banding a Cure for Obesity, Diabetes and High Blood Pressure?

Obesity is a serious issue that affects not only your self-esteem, but your overall health. We are all bombarded with information about fad yo-yo diets, fitness programs, heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes - all of which are equally terrifying when it comes to your health. After years of fighting to shed unwanted pounds, you begin to feel extra weight taking its toll on your health and optimism.

Obesity is quickly becoming the number one cause of death for Canadians, yet our healthcare system is not geared towards treatment of the disease, as doing so would likely bankrupt it. Instead, Canada has chosen to focus on prevention. But how will this help those currently struggling with their weight?

There are options for Canadians looking to take charge of their obesity through surgical means. The most common surgical procedures are gastric bypass and adjustable gastric banding. Gastric bypass surgery is much more invasive than laparoscopic banding, and is covered in Canada for patients who chronically suffer from obesity. Gastric bypass involves the physical removal of a large portion of the stomach.

Laparoscopic banding, on the other hand, is not nearly as invasive. It requires only a small incision in order to place an adjustable band at the bottom of your esophagus. Not only is the procedure less invasive, it is also completely reversible.