Bariatric Surgery and Teens

We all know that there is a major obesity problem going on in the world, particularly in America. It’s estimated that approximately one-third of American adults is obese. This is a major problem, of course, given that there are numerous health problems associated with obesity and morbid obesity. Yet Santo Domingo bariatric surgeon Dr. Abel R. González has also noticed some staggering numbers where children and teenagers are concerned.

Childhood Obesity and Teenage Obesity

While the 33 percent number for adults is high, there’s also something frightening happening to kids in the United States. It’s estimated that approximately 17 percent of children and teenagers between the ages of 2 and 19 are obese. That’s more than 12.5 million people in that age range who may have increased risk for heart problems, respiratory problems, circulatory problems, and may develop diabetes. It’s clear that something has to be done.

Dealing With Childhood Obesity and Teenage Obesity

Obviously one of the best ways to deal with childhood obesity and teenage obesity is to make sure your kids develop good habits when it comes to diet and exercise. The entire team here at our Santo Domingo bariatric surgery clinic urge parents everywhere to make sure that their kids eat healthy and stay active.

Balanced diets with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables are encouraged, and foods high in refined sugars, artificial sweeteners, and empty calories should be limited. It’s also important that children get out and be active rather than remain in their rooms at the computer or loafing out by the television. Exercise, sports, and any sort of physical activity is great.

Should teens undergo bariatric surgery?

But of course, there’s the issue of bariatric surgery. Obviously young children shouldn’t undergo bariatric surgery since they’re still growing and their bodies are still developing. Older teens present a different consideration. Not many teenagers have undergone bariatric surgery, mainly because it’s emphasized that teens try to lose weight naturally rather than resort to surgical weight loss early in life. However, there have been compelling health problems and health warnings that have led some teenagers to undergo bariatric surgery.

What advantages are there to teenage bariatric surgery?

There are several benefits for Santo Domingo gastric plication and bariatric surgery performed on teens. For one, they will reduce the chances of serious health problems developing in early adulthood and later in life. Apart from heart and lung health, teens who experience a great deal of weight loss take a good amount of weight burden off their young joints, improving their health later in life. There is less chance of bullying or teasing for teens as they lose weight, which may be worth considering given the nature of teenage self-esteem.

This is still a matter many professionals are discussing and debating, however. And as of now, there is no research to show if there are adverse effects on teens getting bariatric surgery later in their lives. The discussion will continue, and we hope to continue such a discussion on this website.

Learn More About Weight Loss Surgery Options

There are many different things to discuss when it comes to obesity, particularly childhood obesity. We’d be more than happy to talk about these issues with you in more detail. To learn more about weight loss surgery options and why it might be a good idea for you or a member of your family, contact our Santo Domingo bariatric surgery center today.