Mike Huckabee and RNY?

So there are several prominent political blogs that are discussing stories that Mike Huckabee, who wrote a book about his massive weight loss, may have actually had gastric bypass surgery. Not really sure what I think about this. While it is pretty neat that someone who had the struggle I had is running for the top office in our country, the fact that he wrote a book claiming to have done it through moderation and exercise really bugs me. I am sure I am preaching to the choir here, but surgical weight loss is by no way the easy way out. I know I am busting my rear end every day the gym and have to be a fanatic in watching what I eat. Certainly in no way easy. Anyway, the blogs list the following of "evidence:" He has substantial hair loss from when he was at his heaviest. He only eats very small meals and avoids sugar on the campaign trail. When he ran his marathon, he had to stop periodically for additional protein drinks. He avoids banquets whenever possible. Not trying to get political or try to debate for against the guy. Just find it interesting. I am wondering if it will get more mainstream coverage if he ends up as a VP candidate for McCain or Romney??

Out of curiosity (and if you even know), has he ever been asked outright?  If so, what did he say?  Eating moderately and exercising, as statement, doesn't preclude his having WLS, does it?  Just thinking out loud here.

Well, he's not been asked about it. His entire book Quit Digging Your Grave with a Knife and Fork is about how he lost weight through portion control and exercise though. I read some blogs that said these rumors are whisper campaigns to discredit him. Not sure. Wanted to make sure I fully explained my point on this one, btw. Obviously as someone who has had WLS, I support his doing it if he did it. I guess I am intrgued by this for two reasons: 1. Is having WLS so shameful that he had to lie about it? I have never pretended I didn't have surgery myself, but I am just a regular joe. Would it have been the morst thing in the world to admit he was doing it lose weight and further his Presidential ambition? Remember when Star Jones did the same thing only only later admitted it because she was ashamed to admit that she had surgery? Are we so vile to the rest of the world that we're supposed to hide our struggle? 2. Does the fact that he lied about it really matter? I am really not sure about any of it. Full disclosure, I am an Obama guy, so I wouldn't vote for Huckabee. But, I have found him to be an affable guy and wouldn't be ashamed if he were our leader. My real interest is that this is very germaine to my world as a person who has had WLS. If anyone is interested, this is the full post of the blog that started it all: http://plutarch01.wordpress.com/2007/12/13/huckabees-weight- loss-scam/

We all have rights to privacy, but if he's lying outright, some reporter is guaranteed to dig up the dirt.  I actually hope he did have WLS.   Well, it doesn't have to be him, but I would like to see more high-profile folks having it or speaking in favor of it.  Insurance companies are trying too darn hard to prohibit WLS claims in the name of $CASH.  A politician or other high-profile figure could help further the cause for covering WLS routinely, rather than requiring riders on the policies as they do in some states, such as my own. 

Brings back the memories of Star Jones and all the hype that went along with her.  What really bothers me more about this is he is a preacher if I am not mistaken, well I believe he may have a problem with one of the 10  commandments. What is the big deal! You are in a position to really help people, Star said she lost the weight by portion control and exercise, so he claims the same. I'm not voting for him anyway. Donut

Although I'm always surprised how public figures can outright lie about their personal life, I hope he did not write a book that is a complete lie.  If so he would never be my choice for any elected position. On the other hand, I have no problem with anyone *****fuses to answer questions about how they lost weight.  I have told only one person about my surgery and others who ask how I've lost weight I've told them I'm following a diet of high protein, low carb, low fat and MANY hours at the gym.  I have no desire to share a very personal choice with people who know nothing on the subject but might feel they can judge. I just don't go there.

Goodness.......this makes me think; Star Jones and Rosie outed her so if he has had the surgery, believe me, someone will tell.

I am guessing that all of the clues you mentioned could be just as true for someone *****gularly eats small portions. I know the clues sound like a post-RNY diet, but I think it is also consistent with a post-lapband diet. I am no expert, but it seems like a lap bander stomach would be similar (physiologically) to a tiny stomach in someone who always eats small portions.  We RNY'ers associate that diet with gastric bypass, but it may necessary with others who have to, or (somehow) choose to eat very small portions. Joe

Interesting! This is the first I have heard of it. I am deeply into politics and really find this interesting. Thanks for sharing! I havent even had my surgery yet and it already BUG'S me the negitive light that so many shed on this LIFE SAVING/LIFE CHAINGING surgery!And it certainly doesnt help when those who are lucky enough to receive it and be successful at it dont acknowledge it as the reason. Brandi~