Studies show weight loss surgery is not only safe, but also an effective treatment for diabetes
One of the largest studies on bariatric surgery to date has found the procedure to be as safe as routine surgery, while two others confirm it also can lead to long-term remission of diabetes in some patients. The three studies – conducted by Duke University Medical Center, Virginia Commonwealth University and the New York University School of Medicine – were presented at last week’s annual meeting of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. In one study, nearly 90 percent of 177 morbidly obese patients with Type 2 diabetes experienced a return to normal blood sugar levels within the first year of gastric bypass surgery; about 60 percent were still diabetes-free five to 16 years later. A second study looking at lap banding found after five years, about 40 percent of patients were in remission and about 43 percent had improved blood sugar. Those most likely to have their diabetes return were insulin dependent at the time of the surgery, meaning their disease was more severe and early treatment is key. To learn more about bariatric surgery, click here or call (941) 917-4753 for a free 1-on-1 evaluation with Sarasota Memorial’s Comprehensive Bariatric Program team.

Journey Toward Wellnes
Whether you want to lose 5 pounds or more than 50, Sarasota Memorial’s Healthplex Fitness Center can help you make the lifestyle changes needed for sustainable weight loss. Our program combines the latest weight loss monitoring technology, research, and behavior change techniques, and a team approach, to help you achieve your health goals! Free information sessions will be held at 6 p.m. July 1 and Aug. 1 at the Institute for Advanced Medicine, 5880 Rand Blvd., ½-mile west of I-75 off Clark Road, Sarasota. Call Julie Bender, RD,LD at (941) 917-4998 for more information.

Healing Arts
Relax at Sarasota Memorial’s free expressive arts studio, a weekly program designed to promote creative expression, relaxation, health and healing. The class meets 2-4 pm every Monday at Sarasota Memorial’s Institute for Advanced Medicine, 5880 Rand Blvd., ½-mile west of I-75 off Clark Road, Sarasota. Supplies are provided. RSVP to (941) 917-7293.

“Ready, Set, Grow” Infant to Kindergarten Family Fun Fair
Presented by United Way of Sarasota, don’t miss this free fun-filled day for preschoolers and their families, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, July 25, at Robarts Arena, 3000 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota. For information, call the United Way of Sarasota at (941) 366-2686 or visit www.uwsrq.com.

Sarasota families team up to raise awareness about deadly food allergies
More than 12 million Americans (roughly one in 25) have food allergies – with the highest incidence occurring in young children. Each year, 150-200 people suffer deadly (anaphylaxis) reactions, sometimes within minutes of eating a peanut, wheat or dairy product or other food allergen. To help raise awareness and funds for research, local families are forming teams to take part in Sarasota’s first Walk for Food Allergy. It is one of 35 walks taking place this fall in cities across the country and is part of an annual campaign sponsored by the not-for-profit Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN). Last year’s Walks drew more than 15,000 people and raised $2.3 million. Contributions are tax-deductible and support research and educational programs. Sarasota’s 2-mile walk will take place at 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, 2009, at Payne Park, Sarasota. Walkers and teams are needed. For information or to register or make a donation online, visit www.foodallergywalk.org or call the Sarasota Walk for Food Allergy coordinator Meghan Connolly at (941) 313-0160.

National Night Out
Presented by the City of Sarasota and Sarasota County, this free crime and drug prevention event offers food, entertainment and fun learning activities for the entire family, 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 4, at Payne Park, 2100 E. Laurel St., Sarasota. Information: (941) 861-5000.