Addiction Desperate Maladies Require Desperate Remedies

Thursday, 3 September 2009

An addiction is an uncontrollable strong craving for something
or to be abnormally dependent on something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming. There are many types of addiction
the most common are alcohol addiction
narcotic addiction
and drug addiction; also known as substance dependence.

Drug addiction is the compulsive use of drugs
to the extreme point where the user has no other choice but to continue to use them. A drug addict might address his beloved drug in De Quincey’s words
“thou hast the keys of Paradise
oh
just
subtle
and mighty opium!” An addict’s paradise is an inferno in disguise.

The demon of drug abuse has engulfed the entire world. It has clutched the youth of society in its deadly jaws.

The range of addictive drugs or substances and widely abused drugs include Alcohol
Anabolic steroids
Analgetics
Barbiturates
Buprenorphine
Butorphanol
Chloral hydrate
trichloroethanol & derivatives
Cocaine
Codeine
Dextroproxyp
Dextromethorphan
Ethchlorvynol
Fentanyl & its analogs
Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB)
Glutethimide
Heroin (Diacetylmorphine)
Hydrocodone
Hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
Ketamine
Laxatives
Levo-alpha-acetylmethadol (LAAM)
Meperidine
Meprobamate
Methamphetamine & other Amphetamines
Methaqualone & related sedative-hypnotics
Methadone
Methcathinone
Morphine
Nicotine
Oxycodone
Opium
Xanax
Paraldehyde (Paral)
Phencyclidine (PCP)
and Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol).

Drugs have dragged the addicts to the deep dungeons of oblivion. The whole international community that is direly worried about the problem of drug abuse
has given a loud and clear call to medical institutes and organizations to liberate the victims of drug addiction.

Psychological experts and researchers are always raking their minds to know why people fall prey to drugs. Their studies have divulged that drugs and intoxicants are used to forget or negate the frustrations of life
failures in life
dejected love affairs
depression
or sometimes for fun or adventure.

“Thank the Lord
there’s a ray of hope!” Doctors and researchers have been able to invent some treatments for drug addiction.

Standard drug addiction treatment may include behavioral therapy
medications
or a combination of both. Medication therapy includes medical treatment to beat drug addiction. Behavioral therapy consists of counseling
cognitive therapy
or psychotherapy. The third method
the combination of both
is proving to be the most effective treatment for addiction recovery.

In medication therapy
for instance
addiction treatment like methadone
LAAM
and naltrexone are helpful for opium addicted people. Nicotine replacement therapy
nicotine patches
gum
nasal spray and bupropion are quite effective for people addicted to nicotine. Antidepressants
mood stabilizers
or neuroleptics
are helpful for treatment of mental disorders such as depression
anxiety disorder
bipolar disorder
or psychosis.

As drug addiction is a chronic disorder
there’s no effective short-term treatment for it. It requires a long-term treatment to beat drug addiction.

Finally
strong will power plays a key role in addiction treatment and addiction recovery. Psychotherapists can play an important role in building up the patients’ will to beat drug addiction.

Martin H. Fischer says
“There is only one reason why men become addicted to drugs
they are weak men. Only strong men are cured
and they cure themselves.”
Read More “Addiction Desperate Maladies Require Desperate Remedies”

ADD And College Students - How Does It Affect Them

Sunday, 30 August 2009

Unfortunately
Attention Deficit Disorder does not necessarily fade with age. Many people that suffer as a child will continue to suffer as a teen
as well as into adulthood. However
this disorder may affect people differently at different stages in their life.

College can be a difficult time for some students. For many
this represents a time of breaking free and starting their new uninhibited lives. This may be an exciting and emotional time. How does a college student with ADD face such a time?

For a person with Attention Deficit Disorder
this may prove to be a harsh time of transformation. Typically coming from families that were especially doting and accommodating to their situation
they are thrown in to a new environment to fend for themselves. One of the basic behavior modification techniques in training an ADD child is through structure
routine
and habit. At once
all of this is taken and it becomes the student’s responsibility to recreate this structured life they once had. Of course
a person with ADD is typically disorganized and unstructured. So
they may have a difficult time having the discipline to enact such stringent requirements for themselves.

Another aspect to consider is the increased difficulty in the academic load in college as compared to high school and the additional responsibility put on the students. Not only will the student be responsible for their own organization and structure
they will do so under more stress and academic pressure. This increasingly more difficult schoolwork is not made easier by the student’s general inattentive nature
distractibility
and impulsiveness. The very core of ADD makes college more difficult. With any luck
the student has spent enough time over the last few years regulating their own behavior that they will easily be able to in this new environment.

For the most part
the same steps should be taken in college to deal with ADD as was necessary in high school and other grades. To be effective
a student should carry some type of organizational calendaring system or digital organizer. In college
they do not hold the students’ hands like they do in high school – once an assignment is made
it is expected to be turned in on time
without reminders. Therefore
it becomes imperative to keep up with deadlines and dates. Students should also create structure and organization in their dorm or apartment and utilize the same skills they have been developing for years.
Read More “ADD And College Students - How Does It Affect Them”

Acupuncture Treatment To Quit Smoking - Does It Actually Work

Saturday, 22 August 2009

Acupuncture is an alternative medical method that originated from China. This method is based upon the old Chinese assumption that there are invisible energy point scattered across the human body. Theses energy points are called Meridians. during an Acupuncture treatment
tiny needles are inserted into the Meridians
causing he energy flow through them to change. This principle is used for quit a few benefits:

* It can "open up" energy blocks that will relieve pain and stress
* It can reduce cravings
* It can strengthen your energy and vitality

In the past years
Acupuncture has been used
among other uses
to help people stop smoking. The treatment included inserting the needles to specific points (among them
a few points in the outer ear). This treatment was supposed to reduce the cravings to another cigarette and help those people on their way to quit smoking. In the first few years of using this method
it was quit popular and gained a lot of followers that recommended it. That was mainly because the method is not invasive and is very suitable for people who can't
or won't take medicine and other "strong stuff". But
for the last few years
the use of Acupuncture in smoking cessation has reduced significantly. This happens because of the following reasons:

* The percentage of people who actually stooped smoking while using Acupuncture was small. This indicated that Acupuncture is not the best choice for people who want to quit smoking.

* New solutions were introduced to the scene
such as laser treatment
and shots treatment. This article does not discuss these methods
so let's just say that they proved to be by far more effective than Acupuncture.

To conclude
It is clear that Acupuncture has it's place as an alternative method
and many people report getting results with it. If you want to give it a shot in your efforts to stop smoking
it is advised that you find a therapist with a proven back record of success with helping people stop smoking. However
I would say that as a means to help smoking cessation
there are much better solutions out there
so Acupuncture is in my opinion not the best choice.
Read More “Acupuncture Treatment To Quit Smoking - Does It Actually Work”

Acupuncture For Infertility - Will It Work For You

Acupuncture for infertility promises miraculous cure even where modern scientific methods fail to work. Being a Chinese remedy
Acupuncture might conjure a feeling of dark rooms
hushed voices and incessant pains for pricking of needles. But it is not the case when you go to treat your infertility syndrome with acupuncture. It
on the other hand
promises complete relaxation and instant cure from infertility.

Acupuncture is based on Chinese methods. The Chinese people believed that to remain healthy
energy should flow in a balanced way throughout your body. Whenever there is a blockage in the flow of that energy
inflammations will occur leading to severe pains and several types of diseases. Since energy flows the meridian points
so acupuncture inserts needles in different parts of the body to make energy flow smoothly. Placing needles on certain points unblocks the energy points. This reduces the particular type of disease.

What acupuncture treatment will suit you?

A close research on acupuncture and infertility shows that treatment depends from person to person. However
you should visit the doctor
state your problem and know what acupuncture fertility treatment is right for you. Suggest every detail of your physical condition to the doctor and then go for particular acupuncture remedy. Whether you are suffering from low sperm count
bad quality egg
miscarriage problems
troubling ovulation or blocked Fallopian tubes
acupuncture has a remedy for all.

Acupuncture is best for those people who have already undergone various treatments without any effective results. It is also appropriate for those who do not want to undergo any costly fertility treatments. It is a safe
easy
reliable and painless method that provides fast relief from infertility. Acupuncture for infertility includes pricking of needles in the earlobes
eyebrows
eyelids
ears and fingertips. After the needles are pricked
the patient has to relax for 30 to 45 minutes. Acupuncture guarantees complete cure from infertility by just 3-4 regular sessions.

Other Chinese herbal treatments

Acupuncture for infertility can include auricular
electrified or manual treatments. Electrified means using of electric needles to cure pains and obstacles. Auricular treatment involving pricking of needles in the ears and earlobes is an alternative therapy for female infertility due to hormone disorders. Another method used during acupuncture treatments for infertility includes usage of Chinese herbal medicines. Hachimijiogan is a Chinese herb that subsequently reduces serum prolactin level and results in normal ovulatory cycle and pregnancy. However
using rhubarb
endometriotic pill No 1 and Hochuekkito also reduces pelvic pain and intercourse pain
removes blood stasis
disintegrates mass and leads to purgation of serums.

Acupuncture works for infertility by increasing the production of endorphins or brain chemicals that help to reduce stress. It also improves blood supply to the ovaries
and the uterus. This makes it easier for the uterus to nourish a fetus and reduce the risk of miscarriage effectively. Atlanta acupuncture for infertility pregnancy suggests that the sessions stimulates the central nervous systems causing neurotransmitters and neurophormones to be released
thus reducing infertility effectively.
Read More “Acupuncture For Infertility - Will It Work For You”

Acupressure - Is More Than Just Massaging

Acupressure is one the oldest Chinese traditions used to cure many of our health problems. It involves use of pressure by your hand
elbow and other means. This form of healing has been in existence for more than 5
0
years. A technique recommended by many and has been used world over. It is a simple method if you know how to do it. Acupuncture is another practice wherein needles are used on the pressure points to cure ailments.

How does Acupressure work?

Acupressure is a plain and simple science which has helped many people. Our body has many different pressure points. By applying pressure on these points
it energizes the necessary organs
which leads to healing of the ailing body. The idea behind acupressure is harmony of mind and soul. The relief it provides by the simple touch and pressure can be turn around in their life.

It helps in resurfacing the lost and blocked energy in the curvatures of your body. There is a belief that our body gets charged by the 'Qi' pronounced as 'Chi'. The energy moves along the surfaces of our bodies known as 'meridians'. Applying pressure does all trick sending energy to places where it has been stuck for a very long time.

Two common ways of doing acupressure are the 'Shiatsu' and the 'Jin Sin'. Shiatsu is the common therapy which uses immense pressure
whereas Jin Shin is the gentler form of acupressure that uses soft touch and gentle strokes. Irrespective of the techniques of acupressure
the basic aim is to create a relaxed atmosphere.

Benefits of Acupressure

It is a very easy process and can be learnt without much difficulty. The best way to learn acupressure is to try it on oneself. Some of the common benefits which acupressure provides us are:

1. Relaxes your mind and body
2. Increases blood circulation
3. Relieves from stress related problems like fatigue
insomnia
4. Heals injuries
5. Helps with Menopause and PMS
6. Helps in relieving joint aches and pains
7. Acts as a first aid in case of injury
8. Builts in vigor
9. Reduces labor pain
10. Cures common illnesses like cold
sinusitis
migraine
11. Relaxes the muscular tension
12. Helps in improving muscle strength and tone

Precautions

- Learn acupressure from a thorough professional
- While practicing on yourself
have someone around you
- Avoid open wounds
surgery
broken bone
skin infection and other problems
- Prevent specific pressure points during pregnancy
- Avoid acupressure on full stomach
- Avoid cold drinks especially during winter
- Wear comfortable clothes
- Do acupressure for a limited period of time do not overdo it
Read More “Acupressure - Is More Than Just Massaging”

Absorbent And Comfortable Incontinence Products Reviewed

Thursday, 20 August 2009

There are different kinds of incontinence products that can be found on the market. There are those that are re-usable and washable
while some are disposable. The products can be bed pads
incontinence chair pads
bedding items
and bedding protectors. There are also waterproof support pillows
waterproof pillowcases
duvets and mattress protectors.

These incontinence products are offered in different price ranges and made from various absorbent materials and give various benefits to the end customers. Pads are made to high standards in different sizes to fit beds and chairs. Every pad is separately measured
sewn
cut and packed for your convenience. You can find made to order products that are available for those clients who have specific needs. Some are made with anti-bacterial fibers and materials to manage and control any odor-causing bacteria that may persist.

This hygienic performance can further protect and secure the users. This greater protection will give customers the satisfaction they need. On the other hand
there are those which may not contain anti-bacterial properties but offer better comfort and softness. These incontinence pads offer dryness and soothing relief all night. One may be able to experience the most satisfying sleep without inconvenience of frequent and tiring pad changes in the middle of your sleep. Some companies who manufacture these incontinence products make bed pads specifically for your bed’s size or your bed’s dimension. However
they make bed pads that will fit all the standard bed sizes from single to king size beds.

To maintain their quality
they recommend using commercial drying and washing facilities especially for those products in extremely large sizes. They also come in various styles. Some pads are embedded with integral fluid proof backing that is fully washable and that is flame retardant. Moreover
some products may have non-slip features to prevent common displacements that occur frequently. Moreover
there are pads with fluid proof backing and wings
offering the extra advantage of additional security. In addition
the pad has an essential non-slip fluid proof backing and is also secured in the chosen position by tucking the wings beneath the mattress.

As a result
this minimizes any potential displacement due to restlessness. Some bed products and other bedding protectors have been intended to give water and other fluid safeguards to mattresses
pillows
and blankets. Furthermore
the products are produced from a stylish fluid proof and breathable vapor porous fabric
which helps in minimizing sweating and distress due to overheating. These waterproof mattress protectors are designed to protect mattresses from fluids but without sacrificing beneficial airflow that is essential to a good night’s sleep.

These waterproof mattress protectors are generally called incontinence drawsheets or waterproof drawsheets. Some of these protectors have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties that can add to improved overall hygiene and a decrease in unwanted odors. Lastly
the fabric used in these products is light and comfy to the end users and it is well-built
tear resistant and very durable. The products are trouble-free through a simple “wipe and dry” cleaning or can be machine-washed.
Read More “Absorbent And Comfortable Incontinence Products Reviewed”

About Lasik Complications

Some people who undergo LASIK surgery have experienced some kind of complication . However
if you have an experienced surgeon by your side
the rate of surgical complications is far reduced. Common sense aside
one should base their decisions on the actual facts reported by their treatment provider. Overall
the number of complications are generally reported to be less than 1%. Most of the reported problems are handled through laser re-treatments or enhancements.

In order to understand the kind of complications people have your should understand what a LASIK treatment is all about. During LASIK surgery a laser beam is used to cut a very thin
hinged flap into the front of the eye. The flap is then lifted and the laser is applied to re-shape the eye
and then the flap is replaced to heal.

Some of the more common types of LASIK complications are improperly formed LASIK flaps: Sometimes after the first surgery a patient might experience an improperly formed flap. This might create an irregular surface and cause various vision defects. In such cases
LASIK surgery needs to be repeated one or more times to make the eye surface smooth.

Inflammation: Sometimes there might be inflammation that can develop in areas where the flap comes in contact with the eye. Such a condition
is called diffuse lamellar keratitis (DLK). It may create symptoms such as sensitivity towards light and loss of Vision .

Epithelial In growth: If there is any kind of initial swelling in the eye it might create a common LASIK complication called Epithelial in growth
This condition can be best described as a type of scarring which leads to an irregular eye surface and other vision distortions. In such a condition the surgeon lifts the flap and scrapes out the epithelial growth from inside. This is certainly not a full proof method. It has been noticed that in many cases the epithelial in growth reoccurs.

Some other common types of LASIK complications include dry eye
infections and night vision problems such as glaring around the lights.

Many trained surgeons feel that by using better technology and more precise instruments the chances of having a major LASIK complication can be avoided. People who have had a history of eye complications or infections are not advised to go for these surgeries.
Read More “About Lasik Complications”

About Eczema Conventional Versus Natural Treatment

Eczema is an inflammation of the skin frequently seen in association with allergic conditions such as asthma and hay fever. The parts affected by eczema
develop lesions which will often appear as patches
blisters and/or scratches. The vicinities affected by eczema are very itchy and uncomfortable. The affected areas may become abnormally thick. Thickening of the skin can be brought through trauma to the patches from scratching and rubbing. The affected spots will be typically dry in comparison to unaffected areas. The face
elbows
behind the knees
wrists are more likely to develop eczema than other body parts.

One of the major causes of eczema is the imbalance in a person’s immune function and is probably a form of response to the environmental substances such as dust
pollution
yeast
cosmetic products
chemicals such as: detergents
oils
greases
solvents at home or in the work place. In addition
stress can cause a depletion of certain body nutrients (vitamins and minerals)
which ultimately leads to a sensitivity towards eczema.

Corticoid creams containing hydrocortisone are the most common conventional treatment for eczema. Hydrocortisone is similar to a natural hormone secreted by adrenal gland
which controls the inflammation process and actively participates in the ionic body balance. The hydrocortisone creams are effective for reducing inflammation
swelling
redness and itching thereby allowing the affected area to heal. In spite of temporarily reducing the effects of eczema
these creams can lead to skin thinning and damaging. At high doses or at low doses for extended time the hydrocortisone can accumulate through the body and induce metabolic changes in salt and water balance
potassium and calcium balance and increases the blood sugar level. The reasons for accumulation are multiple. One important cause is the competition between the naturally secreted hormone and the topical hydrocortisone for the same receptors
which can raise the uncoupled hormone level. Another important cause is the steroid structure of the hormone
which makes elimination through the kidney difficult. The corticosteroid creams have to be used with a low dose of hormone and for short period of time as sometimes indicated on the label. On the other hand
sudden discontinuation of the corticosteroid cream can lead to the worsening of the eczema.

Herbal therapy is a mild but long lasting alternative for eczema treatment. Many herbs are known for their beneficial qualities in the treatment of eczema such as: Burdock
Calendula
St. John Wort
Chamomile
Chickweed
Yarrow
Nettle
Licorice. They can be used as teas
tinctures or for topical treatment.

Since eczema is a complex skin disease one single herb is not enough to relieve the symptoms of the eczema or eradicate the disease. A complex mixture of beneficial herbs is more likely to succeed in the treatment.

The antioxidant therapy has been successfully used in the prevention and treatment of different skin diseases
which usually are characterized by a high percentage of free radicals at the site of the affected areas. A good example of natural antioxidants is Sea Buckthorn and Grape seed oils. They contain a wide range of antioxidants such as vitamin E
A
C
selenium
beta carotene
anthocyanidins
which can be beneficial in the case of eczema and other skin disorders.

In conclusion: Natural alternative may be longer than the conventional solution for eczema treatment but much safer for the skin and health in general.
Read More “About Eczema Conventional Versus Natural Treatment”

About Contact Lenses

Tuesday, 18 August 2009

Working population of today's times have the buying capacity in their hands. They prefer looking good and like to be admired by others. Simplicity itself is no more simple and emerging trends in the fashion world have proved the same. Mixing and matching the eye color with the clothes worn or increasing the face value by changing the tone of eyes in accordance to skin are the latest style statements. Women today are no more afraid to try different shades of eyes like Grey
Blue
Green
Orange and many others. For them different eye colors reflect boldness and carefree attitude that could be easily flaunted.

The most important and probably the most tedious work is that of cleaning the contact lenses. Thanks to manufacturers today cleaning them have become easier with the help of new cleaning solutions flooding the market. But this in any circumstance does not refer to you being careless towards handling of your lenses. Eye is a sensitive region and thus it becomes mandatory to be careful about anything and everything that is associated with them. For women who wear eye makeup the task of cleaning and protecting the lenses becomes even more daunting.

Women who wear eye makeup must be careful about certain things. Here are few tips to make your eyes feel and look good without sticking the makeup in your lenses. Before you put contact lenses in your eyes make sure you have washed your hands thoroughly. This would help you avoid transfer any dirt and germs to the contact lens. You must wear your lenses before applying eye make up this helps avoiding the transfer of any creams
oils and lotions to the lens. Try using non-allergic makeup. There are several brands in market offering eye friendly products. It is better to use cream eye shadow than powder as former would not fall into eyes as compared to latter. However
even creams can be irritating if they make it to your eyes. It is better to make use of water based creams than oil based ones. But if you still have to use powder then close your eyes and brush the excess powder off before opening the eyes. This way you would be able to keep it out of your eyes & protect your lenses. Eye liner must be applied to exterior of eyes than interior while using contact lenses. Avoid mascara however if you wish to apply the same make sure you do it carefully over your eye lashes and not bump the brush in your contact lenses. For removing eye makeup wash your hands throughly and carefully remove the contact lenses without touching any makeup. Now use your eye makeup remover to get rid of it.
Read More “About Contact Lenses”

A Sure Way To Get Rid Of Your Back-Ache Problem

I know how terrible it can be for you at nights and even when you wake up. The burning back pain you experience can be a terrible problem.

I know that because of this burning pain
you hardly get all the sleep you need at nights.

You are not alone... and thankfully there are workable solutions that you can use to not only prevent future causes
but also solve the present back pain you are experiencing.

Experts have agreed that the kind of mattress you sleep on plays a very important role in back pains suffered by most people.

There are some mattresses that do you a lot of harm when you sleep on them. And the fact that you spend many hours EVERYDAY on such mattresses will only mean one thing!

You are only spending more time hurting your back...without your knowledge.

To solve this problem you should check the kind of mattress you are sleeping on. By simply changing the mattress for a better type
like a memory foam mattress
you can help to completely eliminate the problem of back-pain from your life.

Over 20 years ago when they were invented by NASA
memory foam mattresses have stood the test of time. Today
many people like you with back problems use memory foam mattresses and it helps them when they sleep.

Memory foam mattresses work by giving you a natural position when you sleep
so that you don't experience any pressure points. Back pains are mostly a result of sleeping at the wrong position at night
either due to the poor quality of the mattress or due to your wrong sleeping position.

Memory foam mattresses handle both of these problems.

So
if you want to end your back pain nightmare
you should try a memory foam mattress.
Read More “A Sure Way To Get Rid Of Your Back-Ache Problem”

A Remedy For Seasonal Allergies

Monday, 17 August 2009

Are you one of the millions that suffer from allergies? Are you looking for information on allergy remedies? If you are a chronic victim of the distressing effects of allergies then it’s high time you found an effective allergy remedy. There are several allergy remedy medications available on the market.

In order to effectively treat your allergies
you need to find the allergy remedy most aligned with your symptoms and needs. You have several avenues to choose from when searching for an allergy remedy. These avenues include: home remedies
allergy medication
environmental modifications
and a consultation with an Allergist.

Let’s start with home remedies. Home allergy remedies were used before allergy medications surfaced on the medical scene. Be wary of many home remedies. Many of these remedies are based on “old wives tales”.

However
there are some steps you can take at home that do work. For example
if you have an allergy to pollen you can minimize its effects by washing your clothing and hair when come home. Make sure to do this before you go to bed
so that you won’t spread any of the pollen onto your bedding.

Allergy medications are a wonderful allergy remedy. You can use over the counter antihistamine pills
lotions
and ointments. If you have a chronic allergy you can consult your physician for a stronger prescription allergy remedy. Nasal sprays are also a great tool against allergies. They act as a direct allergy remedy to your nasal passageways.

There are a few environmental modifications you can make as an allergy remedy. Wash bedding in hot water to remove dust mites. Use mattress and pillow covers to fight against dust mites. Keep your home clean and carpets vacuumed.

If you have severe allergies that can’t be managed with basic allergy remedies then head to your physician or allergist. They can take you through a series of allergy testing and provide the best treatment options for your situation. This may involve removing the allergy culprit from your environment
food plate
or clothing drawer. They can provide prescription allergy medication to knock your allergy out cold.
Read More “A Remedy For Seasonal Allergies”

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A New Direction In Weight Control - Gastric Bypass Surgery

Surgery may be a weight-loss option for patients who are severely obese and suffer from serious medical complications due to weight. There are two accepted surgical procedures for reducing body weight: gastroplasty and gastric bypass. Although these two procedures use different surgical methods
they both reduce the stomach to a pouch that is smaller than a chicken’s egg
drastically limiting the amount of food that can be consumed at one time. Surgery produces 25 to 35 percent reductions in weight over the first year and most of this weight loss is maintained five years after surgery. More importantly
the serious medical conditions that accompany extreme obesity improve significantly. Surgery is not without risk and should be performed by skilled surgeons who also provide patients with a comprehensive program for long-term weight control.

Limited gastric capacity and a narrow anastomotic gastrointestinal stoma necessitate certain dietary modifications particularly in the early post-operative period. Diet progression varies amongst health care professionals. A standardized GBP diet does not exist. Generally
most patients begin with a liquid diet due to the small
edematous gastric outlet. This phase of the diet may range from one day up to 6 weeks. Afterwards
pureed textures are introduced and the diet is slowly advanced to soft-textured foods by about 12 weeks. Small
frequent meals rich in protein are emphasized. Liquids are usually consumed between meals to allow greater intake of calories and protein with solid foods. Carbonated drinks may cause distension and discomfort from the carbon dioxide. Red meats
tough meats
breads and milk products may be difficult for some patients to tolerate. Until solid food intake is adequate
high protein liquid supplements such as sugar free Carnation Instant Breakfast (mixed with low lactose milk if necessary) are often recommended.

During the first six to 12 months after surgery
patients generally consume 900 to 1000 calories. Calorie consumption slowly increases due to a change in the pouch size and stoma size
gastric emptying rate and intake of solid food. Sugar and concentrated sweets are discouraged in order to prevent dumping syndrome. Because the pyloric sphincter is bypassed
simple sugar is dumped into the small intestine causing an increase in the osmotic load
thereby drawing fluid into the intestine leading to diarrhea
nausea
diaphoresis and abdominal cramps. The shunting of blood to the intestines and the perceived decrease in blood volume 30 minutes to one hour after a meal prompts many patients to lie down in an effort to improve cardiac output.

Gastric bypass patients generally lose 50%–75% of excess body weight and are usually successful with weight maintenance.

The obese population
especially the morbidly obese
is increasing at an alarming rate in the United States. Weight loss programs have been found ineffective in this group. In an effort to improve the quality of life and decrease comorbidities associated with this patient population
gastric bypass surgery may be an option.
Read More “A New Direction In Weight Control - Gastric Bypass Surgery”