Hormones are chemical messengers that are released in the body by the endocrine glands. They mediate physiological processes in the body. Examples of hormones include insulin, cortisol, thyroid hormone, oxytocin, and prolactin among many others. Endocrine glands include pituitary, pancreas, thyroid and the adrenals. The hormones have to exist in a state of balance for the body to function normally. If imbalance occurs effects that are evidenced physically occur. Hormonal changes can be physiological or due to disease process. Normal hormonal changes occur during puberty when there is transition from childhood to adulthood. It is also normal for hormonal changes to occur during menopause. During pregnancy, hormonal changes occur that help sustain the pregnancy. Hormonal changes also occur in the setting of disease. Tumors arising in the endocrine glands may release hormones, which will alter the body?s intricate physiological balance. An example is cancer of the thyroid, which releases excess thyroid hormone raising the basal metabolic rate of the body. Deficiency of hormones will also present with disease processes which are treated through hormone replacement therapy.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery

The Benefits of Laparoscopic Surgery

There is no doubt that surgery has changed humankind. Surgical treatments allow us to live longer, healthier lives. However, surgery is also a trauma to the body. It causes an inflammatory immune reaction as the body reacts to this trauma. Small immune reactions are fine, even healthy.

What type of post op support do you have?

We have weekly support groups in both English and Spanish. Please call the office to check which is scheduled.

Detailed question

There are a multitude of questions that people have regarding support after the operation. We have moved away from large support groups to smaller groups.

What type of post op support do you have?

The group meetings that you attended prior to surgery are available to all patients post surgery. We encourage you to remain part of the bariatric patient community. It is a good idea to come and ask questions and network with other patients. As you lose weight and gain confidence and enthusiasm it is important to remember that the surgery is not a cure for obesity. Attending group meeting will remind you that weight gain is a possibility and weight maintenance is hard work. If you have specific food related questions and already a patient of Dr. Belsley that please feel free to reach out to

Is there an online support system of call center if I can't make it to group?

If you are unable to attend a group meeting you can call the office or email questions at any time. You can schedule a phone consult with the dietitian during office hours. You will not have the same experience as meeting with other patients in person. You may benefit from listening to their ideas and questions as well. There is no sense of urgency for the group meetings and you can come when it is convenient for you to attend.

Weight Stigma and Social Pressure

Being obese in the US is frequently accompanied by exposure to weight-related pressure and prejudice from a variety of sources, ranging from negative portrayals of obese individuals in the media to interpersonal difficulties with family members and co-workers. This can lead to negative physical and physiological health outcomes and is also associated with increased weight gain.

The Relationship between Obesity and Stress

Obesity Related Stress Management

Stress is a widely used term, yet the concept of stress in humans is difficult to define. Whilst generally perceived as a negative phenomenon, not all stress is bad; indeed a certain amount is necessary for us to function optimally.

Childhood Obesity

Childhood Obesity and its Related Pressures and Prejudice

Childhood obesity can be damaging to physical well-being and also carries negative emotional and social consequences. Overweight and obese children are frequently stereotyped within the media and subjected to teasing and discrimination across a range of different environments.

Food Addiction

Food Addiction and the Dangers of Substituting Another Addiction

Food addiction or compulsive eating is a pathological disorder. The individual exhibits cravings and withdrawal symptoms similar to those noticed in drug addictions. This is because the same neurological pathways come into play in both cases.

Sugar, fat and salt demonstrating food addiction

First Thoughts

Making the decision

Every magazine and news show has headlines on how to lose weight and get ready for a particular season or special event. There are so many different weight loss plans that it can be confusing and overwhelming. The truth is all these diets work if you are consistent.

Bariatric Surgical Diet while in the Hospital

Stage I – Post-Op and the Hospital Diet

At this time, Dr. Belsley and the hospital team will be monitoring your progress by seeing how well you tolerate low-sugar, non-carbonated liquids such as water, tea, and broth. Sugar-free gelatin is another option. Use a cup to drink and avoid sipping from a bottle or straw.