Non-Surgical Weight Loss Options: Are They a Good Alternative to Bariatric Surgery in India?

Obesity has become a growing concern worldwide, and India is no exception. In fact, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), India has the third-highest number of obese people in the world, with a prevalence of 4% in rural areas and 9.3% in urban areas. Obesity is a major risk factor for several chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers.

Bariatric surgery has been the go-to treatment option for obesity for many years. However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for surgery due to various reasons, including medical conditions, age, and personal preference. Fortunately, there are several non-surgical weight loss options available in India that can be a good alternative to bariatric surgery for some individuals.

Lifestyle modifications

One of the most effective ways to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight is through lifestyle modifications. Lifestyle modifications refer to changes in diet and physical activity that can help individuals achieve weight loss goals. These modifications include:

Diet changes

Dietary adjustments are critical for weight loss. A balanced diet should contain items from all dietary categories, such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Indian cuisine is notorious for its high carbohydrate content, which can result in weight gain. As a result, it is critical to limit the consumption of high-calorie meals while increasing the consumption of fruits and vegetables.

Physical activity

Another crucial part of a healthy lifestyle is physical exercise. Exercise not only aids in weight reduction, but it also provides other health advantages. Adults should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical exercise each week, according to the WHO. A quick stroll, cycling, or swimming can all count as exercise.

Behaviour therapy

Behaviour therapy can help individuals address the psychological and emotional factors that contribute to overeating and weight gain. It is an evidence-based treatment approach that aims to change unhealthy eating habits and promote healthy ones. Behaviour therapy includes cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based interventions.

Medication

Medications are another non-surgical option for weight loss. Medications such as Orlistat can help in weight loss by blocking the absorption of fat in the digestive tract. Orlistat is a prescription medication that is available in India under the brand name Xenical. It is recommended for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more or a BMI of 27 or more with comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia.

Endoscopic procedures

Endoscopic procedures are minimally invasive procedures that can provide significant weight loss without the need for surgery. Endoscopic procedures are performed using an endoscope, a flexible tube with a camera and other instruments attached to it. Endoscopic procedures include:

Intragastric balloon

The intragastric balloon is a non-surgical weight reduction method that involves inserting a silicone balloon into the stomach through the mouth. The balloon is subsequently filled with saline solution, which induces fullness and decreases appetite. The intragastric balloon is only used for six months and is then withdrawn.

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is a non-surgical weight reduction method that includes using an endoscope to reduce the size of the stomach. The endoscope is used to insert sutures in the stomach, which shrinks the stomach and gives the patient a sense of fullness. ESG is a minimally invasive technique that may be done as an outpatient surgery.

AspireAssist

AspireAssist is a non-surgical weight loss method in which a tube is inserted into the stomach via a tiny incision in the abdomen. The tube is connected to an external device that allows the user to remove a portion of the stomach contents after each meal. AspireAssist is intended to assist users in losing weight by lowering calorie consumption.

Non-surgical options vs. bariatric surgery

While non-surgical weight reduction alternatives have been demonstrated to be beneficial in encouraging weight loss, it is important to highlight that for persons with extreme obesity and concomitant health conditions, they may not be as effective as bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery is a surgical treatment that alters the digestive system in order to encourage weight reduction.

Bariatric surgery has been demonstrated to be extremely successful in producing considerable weight loss as well as treating comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. However, bariatric surgery is a serious procedure with risks and problems, and not everyone is a good candidate for it.

Non-surgical weight loss methods may be a helpful alternative to bariatric surgery for people who are not surgical candidates or prefer non-surgical alternatives. Non-surgical methods may also be appropriate for people with a BMI of less than 40 or mild to moderate obesity.

It is crucial to remember that the effectiveness of non-surgical weight loss solutions is determined by a variety of factors, including the individual's willingness to make lifestyle changes and the degree of their obesity. Weight reduction is a multifaceted process that involves dietary adjustments, physical exercise, behavioural therapy, and medication.

A consultation with a healthcare expert is required to evaluate the best weight reduction choices for a person's requirements and condition. A healthcare professional can create a customised weight reduction strategy based on an individual's medical history, current health state, and weight loss objectives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, non-surgical weight loss options are a good alternative to bariatric surgery in India for some individuals. Non-surgical options include lifestyle modifications, behaviour therapy, medication, and endoscopic procedures. Non-surgical options may be suitable for individuals who are not suitable candidates for surgery or prefer non-surgical options. It is important to note that the success of non-surgical weight loss options depends on several factors, including the individual's commitment to making lifestyle changes and the severity of their obesity. Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to determine the most appropriate weight loss options for an individual's needs and situation.