News

Announcing the Addition of a Monthly Support Group Meeting

October 11, 2017

We understand that many people lead busy lives, and making time for weight loss support groups can be difficult. One of our priorities is to make our meet-ups and informational sessions as accessible and convenient as possible. To this end, we have added an additional monthly group meeting to our roster. You can now learn more about the bariatric surgery process, from start to finish, on the fourth Monday of each month as well as the second Wednesday each month. The times for both meetings are the same: 6:30 PM until 8:00 PM. We hope the addition of this second time slot increases your ability to visit with us. Weight loss is a lifelong commitment, and the more personal and professional support you have the better the chances of succeeding in your goals. Once again, support group meetings will be held: Every Fourth Monday of the Month From 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM Every Second Wednesday of the Month From 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact our office. We hope to... Read More

Is a Nutrition Plan Necessary for Bariatric Success?

May 17, 2017

It’s not uncommon to hear potential weight loss surgery patients question whether they will be able to follow the strict dietary program that typically follows a bariatric procedure. Many worry it will be too difficult, and others wonder how important it is to follow the nutrition program to achieve their goals. The truth is, following the dietary guidelines is essential to long-term weight loss, which is why our skilled bariatric surgeons and medical team gradually adapt you to a customized plan. This not only makes the transition to smaller portion sizes and healthier food easier, it helps to set you up for lasting success. Part of the reason bariatric surgery patients need to follow a nutrition plan is because stomach function often will be altered by the procedure. As a result, it can be uncomfortable for you to consume too much or to eat a lot of sugary, oily, or fried foods. It’s also important to follow our dietary guidelines so that you can intake nutrient-dense food that enhances your health and well-being. Each weight loss surgery has its own... Read More

Can Bariatric Surgery Change Your Food Drive?

April 24, 2017

Many patients experience a change in food preferences and tastes following bariatric surgery. While not everyone will notice such alterations, it’s a common enough phenomenon that it’s worth looking into the mechanism behind it. Our extensively trained weight loss surgeons and medical staff will help you through the various experiences following bariatric surgery, including an evolving appetite. Some of the most commonly reported changes in taste are aversions to certain foods, typically animal proteins like chicken, steak, and bacon, as well other foods like eggs and dairy products. A reduced craving for sweet, sugary, and fried foods is also normal. Interestingly, few individuals develop an aversion to fruits and vegetables. In most cases, these dislikes are strong in the beginning but begin to subside over time, allowing patients to enjoy many of their favorite foods again. As far as sugary and fried foods, you should try to limit those items anyway. If your aversion to food seems to be related to texture or an intolerance, it may help to change the preparation or substitute the food with another option. Animal... Read More

Are More People Choosing Bariatric Surgery?

December 7, 2016

Approximately one-third of Americans are considered obese, a number that has been increasing over time. One of the most effective treatments for severe obesity is bariatric surgery. As a result, many people assume that weight loss surgery must be growing in popularity as obesity rates climb. This, however, is not actually the case. In fact, fewer people are choosing to undergo weight loss surgery. The reasons why are complex, as our skilled bariatric surgeons explain: One of the biggest impediments to receiving bariatric surgery for most patients is cost. Many health insurance companies either partially cover or do not cover the cost of weight loss surgery. Those that do provide coverage for a procedure may have a difficult and convoluted approval process that can take years to navigate. While Griffin Bariatrics provides support to patients to help them manage these issues, many individuals are left understandably frustrated by the system. We make it a priority to help people negotiate insurance-related issues, and we also offer appealing financing terms for those who opt to pay out of pocket. Obesity is classified... Read More

Is Obesity a Disease?

October 6, 2016

In 2013, the American Medical Association declared obesity to be a disease. In doing this, the AMA hoped, in part, to help people suffering from this concern achieve greater access to health care that can lead to significant weight loss and improved well-being. Current estimates suggest that approximately one third of Americans are obese. This condition is linked with a number of serious health problems, including heart disease and diabetes, and studies have shown that diet and exercise alone are often insufficient to combat the issue. Our experienced bariatric surgeons recognize that a multifaceted approach is necessary to address a disorder as complex as obesity. There are many causes of obesity, and for many people simply eating less and moving more is not enough to treat the condition. At Griffin Bariatrics, we recognize that long-term weight loss success requires a multimodality approach. At our hospital, we combine leading surgical techniques with comprehensive support, nutrition, and fitness programs to help patients shed weight, improve their health, and—most importantly—enjoy the process. Obesity is a disease, but it’s a treatable one. If you’re... Read More