Family Members Who Have Bariatric Surgery Together Lose More Weight

New research suggests that having weight loss surgery at the same time as a family member may help you and your loved one achieve better weight loss results.

Dr. Gus Slotman of the University of Medicine was the lead author on a study that followed 91 obese people who had bariatric surgery at the same time as a parent, sibling, child, spouse, close relative, or in-law. The results of these weight loss surgery patients were compared to those of patients who underwent the surgery alone. The results from patients in the family group were compared to patients who had similar age, gender, and body mass index (BMI) in the solo group.

The study showed that people who had weight loss surgery at the same time as a family member lost 30% more weight in the first year after surgery than patients who had surgery alone. Furthermore, patients who had surgery with a brother or sister lost 40% more weight than people who had bariatric surgery alone. Dr. Gus Slotman theorized that sibling rivalry may have contributed to the greater percentage of weight loss among siblings.

In addition to losing more weight, bariatric surgery patients who shared the experience with a family member also experienced more health improvements, including a greater chance of resolving type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

It’s believed that the improved results of the patients who lost weight with family members is a result of a strong system of support and encouragement. Sharing the experience with someone close to you may make it easier to follow through on the recommended diet and exercise changes after surgery.