Nicholson Clinic

As America’s obesity problem spirals out of control, new options to help in the battle against the bulge are being introduced. An estimated third of the country’s population is currently considered obese, increasing risks for diabetes, heart disease, some forms of cancer and other complications. While obesity is a serious concern for adults, children are not immune. It is also estimated about a third of America’s young adults are considered obese. While weight loss programs and invasive surgical interventions can help some people shed pounds, that is not always the case. Diet and exercise alone simply does not help everyone. Surgical procedures like the gastric bypass are only recommended in cases where a person’s body mass index is especially high. People caught in the middle will find there are new options available to help them. One involves a much less invasive procedure that essentially mimics the effects of weight loss surgery for a measured period of time, using a balloon ins...

Women of child-bearing age who happen to be obese are likely to hear their obstetricians say shedding pounds before conceiving is a very wise decision. After all, maternal obesity can increase the chances of having a high birth-weight baby while opening the door to a host of potential complications, including serious problems during delivery. Women who are eligible for bariatric surgery will find this option can help them shed pounds quickly and in a lasting way. In doing so, it also reduces the risk for many pregnancy-related complications. Researchers, however, say that it could open the door on a new one women should be mindful of: low birth weight babies. A recent study looked at babies born to women who had undergone gastric bypass procedures. The study included just under 60 newborns. A total of 23 percent were found to be small for their gestational age. Researchers also found that some of the mothers, despite the use of supplements, were deficient in such vital nutrients a...