Weight Loss

Celebrities Increase Popularity of Gastric Bypass Surgery

Gastric bypass surgery has become more popular than ever thanks to a number of celebrities who have gone public with their stories. Sharon Osbourne, Al Roker, Carnie Wilson, Randy Jackson, Roseanne Barr and Diego Maradona have all undergone weight loss surgery under the public eye.

These celebrities make gastric bypass surgery seem easy, but the truth is that it is a serious and complicated surgery and not something to undertake lightly. It should only be used as a last resort when serious dieting and exercise do not work. In our want-it-now society, it may seem like a good quick fix, but the longterm effects must be considered.

In the slick media world, celebrities go on talk shows and talk about their surgeries as another anecdote, glossing over the realities of the surgery. Much like plastic surgery reality shows bypass the recovery period and complications and go straight to the "reveal" moment, celebrities talking about their gastric bypass surgeries do not often address potential complications.

For some people, gastric bypass surgery may be the only answer. It is a life-saving procedure for them. Unfortunately, for others who could lose the weight through diet and exercise if they tried, it has become a trendy option. Very little is reported in the media about the risks of weight loss surgery, such as gallstones, infection, and eventually malnutrition.

Before jumping on the latest trend, it's important to do your research. Just because celebrities make it look easy doesn't mean it is. Our bodies were made the way they are for a reason - we should only "bypass" what Nature gave us if it is our only option.

Tani Shaw is a contributor for Twoop, where you can read a timeline of the history of gastric bypass surgery.