For people suffering from the lifelong disease of morbid obesity, gastric bypass surgery can be a powerful tool that allows people the ability to manage their condition. The surgery works using both malabsorption and restriction; therefore, patients do not absorb some calories and nutrients and are satisfied with smaller portions of food.

Of course, gastric bypass surgery is a tool, not a cure. For the surgery to be effective long term, it must be used properly. Through lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and a healthy food plan, many patients are able to make a long-term change for better health.