Nicole and Jason live in New Orleans where food is a way of life. In New Orleans, people make lunch plans at breakfast. Prior to undergoing the Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy, Jason’s dinner consisted of an appetizer (or two), a salad, soup, entrée, and dessert. According to Jason, his weight reflected the amount of food he was consuming. Now, rather than over-indulging, Jason spends more time socializing at the dinner table. He consumes the same delicious New Orleans food, but in much smaller portions.
Growing up in Louisiana, Nicole and Jason were taught to finish their plate before leaving the family dinner table. This same lesson has carried onto in adulthood; however, the biggest difference is the portion sizes. In America, our portion sizes have increased significantly. For example, in 1916, a Coca Cola was served in a 6.5 fluid oz. bottle containing 79 calories, but today, a 16 oz. bottle of Coke has 194 calories. In 1955, McDonald’s French fries were 210 calories for a 2.4 oz. serving and in 2004, McDonald’s fries were 610 calories for a 7 oz. serving. For Nicole and Jason, the Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy allowed them to reset their portion sizes, spend more time socializing with friends and family, and spend less time over-indulging with food.
