By Sofia Segounis, Nutritionist

Almost 400,000 people get liposuction each year in the United States. It is the quickest way to trim down and the only way to remove fat cells; when you lose weight through diet and exercise you don’t change the number of fat cells that your body has, you just shrink them. But is this expensive and painful procedure worth it?

Liposuction
Liposuction removes unwanted fat from specific areas. A small incision is made in the skin, a narrow tube is inserted underneath the skin and the fat is vacuumed out. While instant fat removal sounds like a perfect solution, there are drawbacks to this procedure. Possible complications include:

• Infection
• Fat or blood clots which can migrate to the lungs and cause death
• Excessive fluid loss
• Friction burns
• Damage to the skin or nerves
• Perforation injury to the vital organs
• Unfavorable drug interactions

Possible post-operative side effects include:

• Pain
• Burning
• Swelling
• Bleeding
• Temporary numbness
• Feeling anxious or depressed

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that even though liposuction removed up to 12% of body weight, it did not decrease the risk of heart disease or diabetes, as you would when losing weight through diet and exercise. Liposuction reduces the number of fat cells in the body but it does not decrease the amount of fat that is left in the remaining fat cells.

Natural liposuction
The way to achieve weight loss and overall well-being is by making lasting lifestyle changes. Incorporate healthy eating and proper exercise into your daily routine and you will get yourself into shape in no time.

Diet
A diet that will allow you to lose weight safely and effectively should be balanced both hormonally and calorically, and include a variety of fresh, wholesome foods.

Hormonal balance means having the right combination of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. For accelerated weight loss you should be consuming 40% of your calories from protein, 30% from carbohydrates and 30% from fat. For a slower, continual weight loss you should consume 30% protein, 40% carbohydrates and 30% fats. Proteins should consist of lean proteins such as soy, chicken, fish and extra lean meats. Carbohydrates should come from fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains. Fats should be the good fats: olive oil, flax oil, fish oils, nuts and seeds. And we cannot forget water. It does not fall into any of these categories, but it is essential for life as well as for weight loss. Being well hydrated will help with weight loss.

Caloric balance means having the right amount of calories to maintain your body functions while still allowing you to lose weight. Each person is different, therefore, the number of calories you require each day varies. To determine how many calories you need each day, complete your Truestar Nutrition Profile. It is equally as important to distribute the calories throughout the day; ideally you want to eat three meals and two snacks per day.

Exercise
A regular exercise routine will help you tone up and burn calories. To create an exercise program that is specifically for you, complete your exercise profile. Exercise will increase your metabolism and provide many other health benefits.

Supplements
Choosing the right supplement is important. Some supplements are unsafe and promise unrealistic results. Choosing one that is safe and effective can be difficult—consult your naturopathic doctor for help. TrueLEAN is a safe and effective supplement designed by our naturopathic doctor and vice-president of naturopathic medicine here at Truestar Health, Natasha Turner.

Liposuction is a quick fix and it does not give you the same benefits as weight loss through lifestyle improvements. For more help making easy and lasting lifestyle changes, visit our weight loss section.

References