Resisting the Procedure

I got a call while I was at lunch today.  My blood tests came back positive for insulin resistance.  I told you in an earlier post that I was going to see my doctor last week.  When I met with her I shared my concern with not being able to lose weight and, based on many symptoms, mentioned that I was curious whether or not I might have PCOS; she listened.  She agreed that I probably do have PCOS and ordered a blood test to check for insulin resistance (one of the major signs of the disease).

Besides ordering the test we talked about weight loss.  She told me that it was going to be very difficult because my body is resisting the change.  We discussed a very, very, low carb diet and she said she would give me some numbers for weight loss doctors.  I thanked her, got the numbers and left.  When I called the numbers, I discovered that she had only given me the names of bariatric surgeons.  That was VERY disappointing.

This is the same doctor who recommended surgery last year.  I have definitely spent some time thinking about this option.  While it sounds like a fast way to lose weight, I can't bring myself to do it.  It is a major surgery and life altering in unpleasant ways (not to mention people often gain the weight back).  Additionally, I want to find out if we can tackle the REASON behind my weight gain (as I remain certain that it isn't entirely diet/exercise related). 

What is most irritating to me is that, when I research both PCOS and insulin resistance, I find that obesity is listed as BOTH a cause and an effect.  That's not fair right?!  Well, which is it?  I guess I don't know.  I am not a doctor.  I do know that the weight that I show on the scale is not congruent with my diet.  (PS...guess what another symptom of both diseases is...you guessed it...depression!)

So, when the nurse called me today to tell me the news, she said the doctor wasn't really planning any sort of treatment at this time.  She again mentioned visiting the bariatricians.  While I am bummed that my traditional doctor only wants me to fix this with gastric bypass, I still have some hope because I have an appointment with a naturopathic doctor tomorrow.  I've never been to a naturopath before.  I don't know that to expect.  From my understanding, though, I will find someone willing to look at the whole picture with me.   That's what I want...I want to explore how to get my body (and mind) healthy by taking care of the root problem...not by hacking away at my digestive system.

NOTE: I am not anti-bariatric surgery.  I think it is a wise choice for many people.  I am just frustrated that my doctor sees it as my ONLY choice.