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Is liposuction a healthy way to lose weight?

Flat absOver the years, countless of methods are being developed to help people lose weight. And one that is quite popular today is thru a surgical procedure called liposuction. There have been many speculations about liposuction and how safe it is. This is the question that has been burdening people with weight problems for a long time already.

Liposuction is done by inserting tiny tubes into small cuts into the skin and extracting the fats in the body. It is usually done as an outpatient procedure, and thus hospitalization is out of the equation. Through the years there have been techniques developed to make the procedure safer and less painful.

Some of these techniques are the following:

  • Ultrasound-assisted liposuction-is being done by using an ultrasound to soften and make the fat liquid. This will provide a much easy way to remove the fats in the body.
  • Tumescent liposuction-is done by administering a local anesthesia to numb the part of the body and where the tube will be inserted.

How effective is Liposuction?

Generally, liposuction is an effective method of removing unwanted fats that are deposited in the body. This process shorten the amount of pain you have to endure with training at the gym since the fats are expelled in the body in a matter of minutes. The only disadvantage is that the skin to where the fat has been removed may appear sloppy. The bad news is that it takes up to 6 months for the skin to tighten back again.

Are there any side effects?

When the procedure has been successfully done, the patient may experience pain, swelling and bruising. The swelling and bruising may last for 2 weeks. There may be secretion of fluids in the area of incision. Doctors may require you to take antibiotics to avoid infection. An elastic bandage and tape is used to cover the area to where the incision has been done.

Almost all patients will be able to stand and move around after the procedure has been done. The recovery period may last for 2 weeks or more, depending on the patient’s condition.

What are the reasons why people undergo liposuction

A lot of people are conscious of their body figure, and most of them do not have time to exercising and visiting the gym every now and then. Liposuction provides a quicker way of reshaping the body. People who have floppy buttock, abdomen, neck and upper arms, are more likely to undergo liposuction. The procedure is also used to treat certain medical conditions like:

  • Abnormal large breast for male
  • Benign fatty tumours
  • Excessive sweating in the armpit area
  • Metabolic problems that cause body fat

Is it dangerous?

Liposuction should be done by a well experience doctor that has the proper equipment and facility.  There is a high risk of complications if liposuction is done in many areas of the body. It is also dangerous if there is too much fat removed in the body. Some people who undergo liposuction has experience permanent changes in skin color, uneven skin surface in the treated area and damages to skin.

Even though, death caused by liposuction is rare, still there is no guarantee it won’t happen. Especially if, there is a large amount of fat to remove. It may be also dangerous if the procedure is done in an unsterile area and not by a professional. Some complications that can occur are:

  • To many blood and fluid loss
  • Creation of blood and fat clots that go to vital organs, which may be extremely dangerous.
  • Fluid in the lungs
  • Reaction to solution injected
  • Damages to the organs

NOTE: People who have a heart problem should not undergo liposuction. It is also dangerous for women who are pregnant to undergo liposuction.

Making the decision

Keep in mind that even though liposuction offers new and safer techniques, it still involves risky surgical operation. You may lose some unwanted fats in your body, but it does not guarantee an absolute solution to your weight problem. Liposuction will not have an effect to a person if he/she still maintains the same unhealthy lifestyle. The best way to lose weight is through making behavioural modifications. Lastly, if you decide to undergo liposuction, make sure that you have it done by an experienced doctor.

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Non-invasive Liposuction Procedures – Are these effective?

Stomach Liposuction Cost

Stomach Liposuction Cost

Going under the knife is something that many of us would like to avoid at all costs. The thought of undergoing surgery and laying unconscious for hours can be scary even for those searching for ways to get that swimsuit perfect body they have always wanted. Liposuction after all is a surgical procedure that comes with all the medical complications and hazards of surgery.

In response to this, medical science has developed non-invasive weight loss techniques that aim to provide all the benefits of liposuction without the complications. But before you opt for these techniques, let us first take a look into some of these procedures and determine if these are truly effective.

Cold Sculpting and RF liposuction are just two of the modern non-invasive liposuction procedures that aim to provide people with an easy way to lose stubborn fat deposits without surgery. But supporters are quick to reply that weight loss may not be as dramatic as those seen in liposuction. These might only be effective in targeting small pockets of fat. But even with its limitations these provide a non-invasive alternative to liposuction.

Although both are considered as non-invasive weight loss procedures, these techniques do have difference in how they eliminate hard to remove fat deposits. Cold Sculpting destroys fat cells by freezing while RF liposuction utilizes the power of sonic technology to break down fat cells. Instead of being suctioned off like those seen in liposuction, fat cells are eliminated through the body’s natural processes. Because they are limited in the amount of fats they can destroy, multiple treatments are advised for people who have extensive fat deposits.

Cold Sculpting

Cold sculpting uses the power of freezing to destroy cellulite deposits. It kills fat cells, through a process called apoptosis. These are then eliminated from the body naturally. This procedure is approved by FDA for targeting small fat deposits. The aim of this treatment is to kill fat cells without harming any of the surrounding tissues. It is reported that this treatment could reduce fat thickness by as much as 20 percent in the target area.

Treatment is done by applying a device directly on the target area. Patients have reported intense cold during the first minutes. However, this feeling usually goes away. Side effects of treatment include bruising, redness, numbness and tingling. Results may not be as dramatic as those seen in liposuction and usually requires multiple treatments are advised for patients to enjoy the full effects of treatment.

RF liposuction

This procedure combines ultrasound technology and heat to reduce fat cells non-invasively. The procedure is FDA approved and is effective in reducing fat deposits in the flanks and abdomen. Results could be seen 2 to 3 weeks. Dead fat cells are eliminated naturally by the body.

Ideal candidates for RF liposuction are people who are close to their ideal body weight and are in good physical condition. In order to effective, patients must be able to pinch 2.5 cm on the area to be targeted.

Treatments usually last for around an hour. A RF liposuction device is used on the target area. Patients report a slight discomfort, tingling and warmth on the target area. Immediately after treatment, redness, swelling and bruising is also reported. Pain medication can be prescribed for patients with low pain thresholds.

Disadvantages of treatment

There are no medical studies that have conclusively proved how long the effects of these treatments last. However in theory, these should be permanent since fat cells are eliminated from the body. The true success of any weight loss treatment could be based on the patient’s lifestyle after treatment.

Those searching for a quick way of losing fats or a treatment that could replicate the effects of liposuction may not see the same with these treatments. Although a slimmer body could be achieved, it usually requires multiple treatments before any visible results could be seen. Results may also vary from patient to patient making it hard to gauge its effectiveness.

Both of these treatments continue to show improvement in their effectiveness in removing fat cells. It might take more years before these are perfected. But these could be used as a non-invasive alternative to liposuction.

 

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Diet Wars: Men, Women and Food

256px-Human_body_man_and_woman_with_numbers.svgIf one is to follow the social typecast, one is likely to conclude that men eat like lions and women, like birds. A typical male will favor red meat, pork, sausages, egg and starchy food, while a typical female will shy away from them. Meat, which represents virility is classified as “male food” while fruits and vegetables are considered “feminine.” Men also tend to eat more because society has given them the license to be fat while women should always be slim.  Men are more likely to admit that they eat for pleasure, while women will use food for a physique that will fall within socially accepted norms on beauty and fitness.

Such an observation is true based on several studies conducted about the eating habits of men and women. Both men and women have specific reason on why they eat certain food items but women put more weight on food as a source of nutrition. Women would also regard food as a source of comfort or a method for maintaining overall health and well-being.

The Numbers

A research conducted by the International Food Information Foundation in the US reveals that women are indeed more discriminating than men in terms of the kinds of food they eat. The study shows that women tend to benefit from and contribute to their overall fitness.

In addition, both men and women believe that specific foods and beverages target their unique gender-specific needs. The following are some of the observations made by the study.

  • 53 percent of women consume specific foods they believe will make them health while 48 percent of men believe the same.
  • 42 percent of women choose certain foods that make them full or satisfied. A lower percentage of men, 27 percent choose food for the same reason. In general, men believe that volume and not the type of food is the key to satisfying their hunger.
  • 41 percent of women pick food items that aid their digestive health and only 33 percent consciously make this choice.
  • 34 percent limit their diet to food that will lessen the effects of whatever disease or medical condition they presently have. 27 percent of men do the same.
  • 34 percent of women include food in their diet that boosts their energy or stamina. Surprisingly, only 27 percent of men who are actively engaged in sports are mindful of this.
  • 34 percent of women put a premium on the food items that increase their mental performance while 27 percent of men do so.
  • 33 percent of women utilize food that will prevent them from acquiring certain diseases. 25 percent of men have this level of awareness (the rest find out too late after consuming too much that they have acquired a life-style related disease).
  • 30 percent of women maximize the benefits of food to improve their overall appearance while 20 percent of men are equally conscious of this benefit.

Sex and Food Choices

Based on the study, one can conclude that men are not really that health-conscious when it comes to making decisions about the food they eat. The study also shows that women tend to be more satisfied with their health status but pay more attention to their weight than men. As a result, women are more likely to make more changes in their diet than men in order to improve their health.

In a survey conducted by the International Conference on Emerging Infectious Diseases in Atlanta, Georgia, it was shown that men are more likely to consume meat and poultry products. Aside from being potential sources of bacteria and viruses when poorly prepared, meat increases the risk factors for acquiring lifestyle diseases. These include cardio vascular, hypertension, high cholesterol and diabetes.

Women on the other hand prefer vegetables like carrots and tomatoes and fruits like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and apples. A common denominator of all these plants is that they are rich in chemicals and anti-oxidants that possess anti-aging properties and prevent certain diseases. Women also prefer dry foods such as almonds and walnuts and consume more eggs and yogurt.

Freshness Factor

While women prefer fresh meat over frozen ones, they tend to shy away from undercooked items like burgers and steaks, runny or over-easy eggs, raw oysters and cheese made from unpasteurized milk. In general, men don’t mind if their food is under cooked. This gives an insight into women’s heightened alertness of food items that are potential sources of diseases. Women are also more likely to eat raw vegetables like salads and greens and sprouts.

Snacks

When it comes to snacks, men and women’s preferences vary as well. Women consider themselves healthy “snackers.” Women choose fruits, nuts and vegetables over the over the counter kind. When dining out, men would usually go for burgers and pizza. In addition, women are on the lookout for healthier options in fast food or fine-dining restaurants.

Age Factor

As men and women age, their eating habits are likely to change or mature as well. A separate study conducted in Japan that focused on the eating habits of older citizens showed more middle-aged men took more nutrients from food rather than women. However, women took the lion’s share in consuming vegetables and fruits. Interestingly, despite the increased risks of acquiring lifestyle-related diseases, men still consumed high amounts of alcohol compared to women who preferred tea. Men were able to consume more nutrients simply because of the sheer volume of food they eat. Women despite eating less were able to show more variety in the food they ate.

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A Quick Look into Eating Disorders

hips - losing weight series

There’s nothing wrong with the desire of being thinner or at least losing a few pounds, but if you’re doing certain things to lose weight excessively or perhaps the other way around, you might be experiencing a type of eating disorder. This is usually common in teens since high school life is the time when bullying and peer pressure arise, but eating disorders can also be present in younger or older individuals. So what is it anyway? What are the types and what symptoms are there?

 

Definition

Eating disorder is basically a general term that encompasses every cachexia which has something to do with food consumption. It is a group of serious conditions wherein the patient tends to be extremely caught up mentally with the food she’s consuming and with her weight. If you think that eating disorders can be changed by simply changing your diet, betting think again.
Aside from difficulty in treatment, it’s also difficult to catch the disorder. Furthermore, having a type of eating disorder and refusing to treat yourself will make you prone to other serious health problems which are usually life-threatening.

 

Types

Today, there are more than 8 types of eating disorders that are experienced by people around the globe. Most of it arises in women, but men also have their fair share. Treatment also depends on the type of disorder you have, hence, home remedy without consulting a physician or any other medical expert is not advisable.

 

Anorexia Nervosa

This is the most common type of eating disorder and is characterized by an unwillingness to eat. With this, you tend to feel extreme fear of gaining weight and end up wanting to maintain a weight lower than what is advisable for your age. Anorexia does not only affect your body and nutrition but also your mind and the way you think. In worse cases, it affects the emotion of the patient. Here’s a shortlist of its probable cause.

• Stressful events in life such as deaths, divorce, or losing good friends
• Having a job that calls for perfect weight and shape like modeling or ballet
• Family members also have an eating disorder
• Attitude of extreme perfectionism

 

Bulimia Nervosa

This is yet another type of eating disorder where binge eating occurs. This is characterized by eating large amounts of food in a short span of time and afterwards, forcing yourself to eliminate all the food from your body. Forced vomiting is said to be the easiest way, but other people with bulimia engage in too much workout and consume laxatives. According to research, binge arises because people feel comfort from food, however, if you feel you have consumed too much, you end up forcing yourself to eliminate all the food. Causes are as follows:

• One or more family members have a certain type of eating disorder
• One or more family member is obese
• Extreme perfectionism
• Extreme stress whether with life or with work

 

Binge Eating Disorder

BED or Binge Eating Disorder is a recently-acknowledged eating disorder. This is described by chain episodes of binge eating, however, unlike bulimia you don’t force the food you ate to exit from your body via vomiting. BED makes you extra conscious with the calories you consume.

Most people with this eating disorder appear perfectly normal and has proper weight as well, however, in due time, they may gain excessive weight and become obese. Until today, experts are still blank about the causes of binge eating.

 

Hypergymnasia

This is an uncommon eating disorder wherein you don’t gain control over your workouts and food intake. It’s somewhat installed in your mind that, after eating, you will have to have extreme workout until you assume that all fats you consumed are already burned. This is usually common in athletes, and unlike anorexia, hypergymnasia doesn’t fully focus on the physical image. This is also one of the eating disorders that have no exact cause.

 

Treatment

Psychotherapy is one of the most common treatments for eating disorders. It will help you realize that what you’re doing is wrong. It also helps you determine which are the right actions and the wrong ones in terms of eating and staying fit and healthy. This therapy also helps you obtain a better relationship with your mood.

Family therapy is another treatment done to those who are quite young yet already experiencing an eating disorder. With this treatment, your entire family should cooperate and should make adjustments to make you feel accepted and comfortable. Alongside both of these therapies are chemical-based drugs which may be prescribed depending on how worse your eating disorder is.

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