Nate Newton, a former Dallas Cowboys offensive lineman, is known for his fluctuating weight and outspoken personality. After retiring from the NFL, Newton's weight ballooned to over 400 pounds, leading him to seek a solution for his health. His journey involves bariatric surgery and significant lifestyle changes. This article explores Newton's weight loss story, the challenges he faced, and the steps he took to transform his life.
The Turning Point
Newton's weight issues were not new. Throughout his NFL career, he played at around 335 pounds, a weight that was necessary for his position. However, after retiring, his bad habits of binging on foods like french fries and beer continued, causing his weight to climb. He reached more than 400 pounds. The turning point came when he experienced a triple tragedy: the deaths of his father and two aunts within six weeks. Newton saw this as a warning and decided to take action.
Seeking a "Magical Solution"
Initially, Newton approached Dr. David Kim seeking a "magical solution" to his weight problem. He weighed 396 pounds and was looking for a quick fix for his 6-foot-2-inch frame. According to Newton, "The first thing he said was I had to give up the carbohydrates. I said, 'What? Give up the beer? Mashed potatoes?'"
Dr. Kim performed a gastric sleeve operation on Newton in April 2010. This procedure, also known as a vertical sleeve gastrectomy, involves removing upwards of 75 percent of the patient’s stomach.
The Role of Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery is often seen as a tool rather than a complete solution to eating problems. Medical professionals emphasize the lifelong commitment required for the surgery to be effective and safe. As Dr. David Dyslin notes, patients need to be aware of the potential long-term issues if they don't stick to a restricted eating and exercise program.
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Potential Risks and Complications
Bariatric surgery can lead to significant weight loss, but it also carries risks. Patients may experience:
- Vomiting if they don’t adhere to a restricted eating program.
- Nutrient deficiencies, especially after procedures that remove or bypass parts of the digestive tract.
Dr. Ken Fujioka warned of "severe and irreparable problems" due to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, such as B-12, iron, calcium, and vitamin D. These deficiencies can lead to osteoporosis, hair loss, and lowered immune and neurological functioning.
The Importance of Follow-Up Care
Surgeons and hospitals now provide support and maintenance programs to address these concerns. Dr. Maria Collazo-Clavell advises patients to start nutritional supplements at the time of surgery and to have their nutritional status checked regularly. Tammy Beaumont, director of the Weight Management Institute, emphasizes the importance of follow-up and lab work to adjust vitamin levels.
Lifestyle Changes and Commitment
After the surgery, Newton took notes from nutritionists at Dr. David Kim’s Live Life Again Center for Bariatric Surgery. He eliminated forbidden foods from his home and started a consistent exercise program. Dr. Kim emphasized that a good patient is just as important as a good surgeon, stating, "You need to have a patient willing to change his life. Nate had to learn when he was eating out of true hunger and when he was eating out of habit. He had to find passions outside of food."
Exercise and Diet
Newton's exercise regimen included walking, jogging, biking up to 40 miles a day, and lifting weights. He adopted a healthier diet, focusing on foods like turkey, skinless chicken, and vegetables. He also limited his beer consumption to once a week.
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Overcoming Old Habits
Newton acknowledged his past struggles with weight, including gaining around 75 pounds during the off-season. However, he committed to being more diligent and maintaining his fitness.
The Transformation
Since undergoing bariatric surgery, Newton has lost over 175 pounds and now weighs around 220 pounds, his lightest since high school. He has maintained this weight loss through consistent effort and dedication to his new lifestyle.
A New Outlook on Life
Newton's weight loss journey has not only transformed his physical health but also his outlook on life. He speaks to football teams and rookies, sharing his experiences and encouraging them to make healthy choices. As he stated, "Good things are going to happen for me. But right now it’s just time to sit back and laugh at folks."
Common Mistakes After Bariatric Surgery
The National Association for Weight Loss Surgery identified common mistakes made by bariatric patients:
- Not taking adequate vitamins, supplements, or minerals.
- Assuming you have been cured of your obesity.
- Not exercising regularly.
- Not eating right.
Avoiding these mistakes is crucial for long-term success after bariatric surgery.
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Similar Stories of Transformation
Newton's story is similar to those of other former NFL players who struggled with weight after their careers ended. Steve McKinney, a former offensive lineman for the Texans, also had to change his eating habits to lose weight. N. D. Kalu found success by cooking healthy meals and storing them for the week. These stories highlight the importance of lifestyle changes in maintaining weight loss.
The Importance of Support and Expertise
Dr. Kim sees more and more former pro-football players seeking help with weight loss. He emphasizes the significance of having a good surgeon and a patient willing to make lifelong changes. The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery awards a Center of Excellence rating to programs with high standards of patient care and surgical outcomes, highlighting the importance of seeking out qualified professionals.