A gene linked to obesity risk can actually cause people to gain weight, according to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation. The findings of this study may explain why some people are more prone to being obese or overweight than others.

There is obesity help for those who have been unable to lose weight from diet and exercise. The weight loss surgeons at the Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence are board-certified and perform the most cutting-edge weight loss surgery in Los Angeles. To find out if you are a candidate for Los Angeles bariatric surgery, please contact our surgery center.

Results from Obesity Gene Study

The researchers in the study found that those who possessed a high-risk version of the FTO gene from both of their parents experienced higher levels of ghrelin (the appetite-stimulating hormone) in their bloodstream.

Consequently, these high ghrelin levels caused people to still feel hungry after a meal and to crave high-calorie foods. On average, those with the high-risk version of the FTO gene on average weighed about 6.5 pounds more than those without this version of the gene.

The findings of this study are important because they mark a change in the way obesity is viewed and treated. Now, treatments for obesity may be targeted at regulating ghrelin signaling, which may help combat the obesity epidemic.

But because there are multiple genetic factors that contribute to weight gain and obesity, there is no “magic pill” that will solve the problem. Once doctors are able to determine whether patients have inherited the obesity-risk version of the FTO gene, they can determine appropriate courses of treatment based on the individual’s unique genetic and psychological makeup. Until then, weight loss surgery is the only known effective treatment for such patients that provides long-term benefits, not just in losing weight, but also in resolution of obesity-related medical issues.

Los Angeles Weight Loss Surgery

Bariatric surgery, or weight loss surgery, is typically performed on patients who suffer from obesity (those with a BMI of 30 or higher), and is used as a last resort for patients who have been unsuccessful at losing weight through conservative methods like diet and exercise.

Some of the most common types of weight loss surgery include:

  • Gastric sleeve surgery
  • Lap band surgery (and lap band removal or revision)
  • Band to sleeve conversion
  • Gastric bypass
  • Gastric plication
  • Duodenal switch

When deciding if bariatric surgery may benefit you, you should first calculate your BMI. If you have a BMI of 40 or higher, you are most likely a prime candidate for one of these procedures. However, if your BMI is 30 or above, and you have obesity-related health risks such as diabetes or high blood pressure, you may still be considered for surgery.

Best Weight Loss Surgeon in Los Angeles

To learn more about bariatric surgery and to find out if you are a candidate for one of these weight loss procedures, please don’t hesitate to contact the Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence, where one of our world-renowned bariatric surgeons can help determine the right course of treatment for you.

You can schedule a consultation today by calling (888) 391-0182 or by filling out our online contact form.

Next, learn more about the best candidates for bariatric surgery.