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Making the Weight Loss Surgery Decision

“Something is wrong. I’m going to the gym everyday, I’m following diets. I know how much I’m taking in, and I just can’t lose any weight.”

Does this sound familiar? It’s the story of Karen, a valued patient of our Dallas, TX clinic. The results of Karen’s gastric bypass surgery are inspiring, but the decision wasn’t easy. If you’re on the fence about weight loss surgery, Dr. Barker and his staff can help. During your initial consultation, we’ll review your health history, discuss your previous weight loss strategies and determine whether you’re a candidate for weight loss surgery. It’s not for everyone, but it’s life changing for many.

For a video of Karen’s story, click below–and call 1-888-OneDrBarker to schedule an appointment today.

Karen’s Story

August 31, 2010 | Leave a comment | Permalink

New Research Explores the Value of Mind Control in Weight Loss

New data presented at the Society for the Study of Ingestive Behavior annual meeting indicates that dieters may be able to control their food consumption by manipulating their minds.

The study found that test subjects felt “fuller” and more satisfied after eating portions that seemed larger than they were. For example, in one experiment, participants were provided with a list of smoothie ingredients. 1/2 were shown pictures small fruit portions, while the others were shown images of larger fruit portion. Participants were then asked to rate their hunger before and after smoothie consumption. Participants who viewed the larger fruit portion reported feeling satiated for longer, though both groups consumed the same actual smoothie size and ingredient ratio.

According to study author Dr. Jeff Brunstrom of the UK’s University of Bristol, the study may also translate into food labels and packaging techniques. “Labels on ‘light’ and ‘diet’ foods might lead us to think we will not be satisfied by such foods, possibly leading us to eat more afterwards,” added Dr. Brunstrom. “One way to militate against this … might be to emphasize the satiating properties of a food using labels such as ’satisfying’ or ‘hunger relieving’.”

And while labeling foods as “satisfying” or “hunger relieving” may sound good to those attempting to lose weight, chances are it will be harder to get food manufacturers on-board when “light” and “lowfat” labels are driving sales. So, what mind tricks can you try on your own brain? Weight loss experts suggest abandoning large plates for smaller ones, so it looks and feels like you’re eating more than you are. In addition, try setting a timer after you eat. It takes 20 minutes to feel satiated after a meal, so it’s important to wait before returning for seconds. After 20 minutes, you may decide you’re full after all! While you’re waiting on the timer, put away the leftovers. If you have to hassle with getting everything out again, you may avoid seconds and opt for a simple piece of fruit, instead.

Struggling with weight loss? Visit Barker Bariatric Clinic to discuss surgical options that can help.

July 24, 2010 | Leave a comment | Permalink

Barker Bariatric Sponsors Patient Appreciation Picnic

Here at Barker Bariatric, we’re proud of our patients’ success. We also realize the critical role that family and friends play in supporting their surgical recoveries and lifestyle changes. To celebrate the opportunity we have to partner with hundreds of patients during their weight loss journey, we’re hosting an upcoming picnic and afternoon celebration at White Rock Lake. The gathering is a great opportunity to make new friends, hear inspiring stories and meet the Barker Bariatric team.

Details:

Join us on Saturday, June 5 at 11:45 a.m. We’ll gather at the Stone Table  (near Barker Bariatric’s Lake Highlands Drive location) for barbecuing, outdoor games, prize raffles and more.

Call 1-888-One-DrBarker to RSVP–or email dawn@drwbarker.com. We can’t wait to see you there!

May 20, 2010 | Leave a comment | Permalink

FDA Warns Consumers to Beware of Lipodissolve Products

We all know that weight loss isn’t easy, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers against a gimmick designed to “inject” the fat away. Lipodissolve (also called lipolysis, lipozap and liptherapy), is an injection intended to permanently remove pockets of fat from the body.

Offered by medical spas around the country, lipodissolve is composed of drugs like phosphatidylcholine (PC) and deolycholate (DC), along with variations of herbal extracts and vitamins/minerals. According to the FDA, the medical spas offering these procedures are making “false and misleading claims” to consumers, since the product ingredients have not been proven effective in the dissolution of fat from the body. In addition, they have not been proven safe.

“We are concerned that these companies are misleading consumers,” said Janet Woodcock, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. “It is important for anyone who is considering this voluntary procedure to understand that the products used to perform lipodissolve procedures are not approved by FDA for fat removal.”

Some patients have also reported side effects after undergoing lipodissolve injections–ranging from skin scarring to painful, subcutaneous knots. Participating medical spas have received warning letters from the FDA (as of Apr. 7, 2010) for making false and misleading statements about their lipodissolve services/products, and consumers are urged to avoid these unproven procedures. You can find out the full story at the Consumer Affairs website.

Unlike “quick fixes” like lipodissolve, bariatric surgery is an FDA-approved way to lose weight. Barker Bariatric can help you determine the procedure that’s best for your body when you call 1-888-OneDrBarker today to schedule your comprehensive consultation.

April 29, 2010 | Leave a comment | Permalink

Inspiration for the Journey–LapBand Success Story

From insurance assistance to quality medical care, Barker Bariatric provides patients the one-on-one care they need to transform their life and health. Enjoy Bill’s inspirational LapBand success story at Barker Bariatric’s YouTube channel if you’re considering Barker Bariatric for your weight loss surgery needs. Call 1-888-OneDrBarker today to schedule a personal consultation.

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April 14, 2010 | Leave a comment | Permalink

Find Barker Bariatric on YouTube!

Did you known that Barker Bariatric has its very own YouTube channel? Visit us on YouTube to view video success stories, patient testimonials, surgery information and post-surgical diet advice. Wondering if you qualify for weight loss surgery with Barker Bariatric? Check out the video below to get more information about insurance requirements, health requirements and more, or call our team of weight loss experts at 1-888-OneDrBarker.

April 2, 2010 | Leave a comment | Permalink
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