When it comes to many health issues in this nation, it seems like our regulatory organizations, namely the FDA, approach things a little backwards. Take obesity for example. This epidemic, which is reaching frightening levels in the US, is often spurred on by an unhealthy lifestyle.
Instead of focusing on the root causes of obesity, however, such as physical activity, diet, and misinformation about health and weight loss in general, the FDA has just approved a surgical implant to make obese individuals feel less hungry.
The device is the Maestro Rechargeable System, manufactured by EnteroMedics of St. Paul, Minnesota. This rechargeable “pacemaker for the stomach” works by blocking signals in the vagus nerve, found in the abdomen, which regulates communication between the brain and the stomach.
Blocking these signals on an intermittent basis allows the Maestro system to regulate hunger signals – ideally blocking cravings, and creating a sensation of satiety. It has been designed for obese individuals with one or more related conditions (hypertension, type 2 diabetes, etc.) and a body mass index of 35 to 40.
However, while the FDA has concluded that the device did help test subjects lose weight (about 8.5 percent of their excess pounds) in a 12-month period, it is unknown whether this weight will stay off over time. A five-year study is set to be performed to collect additional data.
What we now know is that the Maestro system has some serious potential side effects. Milder, and more common, symptoms include heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and mild nausea. More severe symptoms include worsened nausea, vomiting, pain, and surgical complications. As with any surgery, risk of infection at the site is always a factor.
As far as treating obesity, we could do better. Instead of putting obese individuals through dangerous surgical procedures which may not be effective, a higher focus on prevention, and natural solutions, is key. In an editorial piece published on InfoWars.com, Anthony Gucciardi recently wrote:
“What about actually combating the major causes of obesity? From the plastic chemicals like BPA and BPS, to examining the links between Monsanto’s RoundUp consumption and overall sickness. Or at least letting consumers know what they’re eating when they place their next order for a triple McRib?”
It’s a solid point. The FDA continues to approve the use of sugars, high fructose corn syrup, hormone disrupting chemicals and other fat-inflating additives in processed foods – even those marketed as healthy and “diet” foods, and then approves a device to block cravings for those foods. This is simply putting a huge bandage over the problem.
If you are looking to lose weight – even a lot of weight – instead of relying on a risky implant, there are many superfoods and herbs that can help you to naturally curb your cravings. Adding these to a healthy lifestyle of whole, unprocessed foods, regular exercise, sleep, and stress relief can go far.
If you have major weight issues, it may do worlds of good to talk to a nutritionist or another health professional you trust about natural ways to shed the pounds – ways that go to the root of the problem.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://www.wsj.com/articles/fda-approves-new-obesity-device-1421276434?mod=e2fb
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/838176
http://www.infowars.com/fda-approves-surgical-implant-to-fight-obesity-but-wont-label-gmos
