The rising prevalence of overweight and obesity among adults in Malaysia has become a significant health concern. According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023, over 54% of Malaysian adults are categorized as overweight or obese. This marks a nearly 10% increase in obesity rates over the past decade, highlighting a continued upward trend since 2011. Furthermore, Malaysia ranks second in Southeast Asia for the highest proportion of obese citizens, after Brunei, as per data from The World Factbook (2016-2024). Experts attribute this rise to sedentary lifestyles and poor eating habits, which also increase the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension.
Weight Loss Treatment: The Allurion Intragastric Balloon (IGB)
The growing obesity rates in Malaysia demand urgent attention, as a significant portion of national healthcare funds is directed toward treating preventable diseases. While a balanced diet and regular exercise remain key for weight management, individuals seeking additional options may turn to treatments like bariatric surgery.
Bariatric procedures, such as vertical sleeve gastrectomy, mini-gastric bypass, and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, have become more common over the years. These surgeries, typically performed laparoscopically (minimally invasive), work by altering the digestive system to reduce calorie absorption, limit stomach capacity, and reroute portions of the small intestine.
However, a non-invasive alternative, the Allurion intragastric balloon (IGB), has gained popularity in recent years. Dr. Nik Ritza Kosai, a consultant in gastrointestinal and obesity surgery at Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz (HCTM), explains that the IGB is recommended for individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 27.5 or higher, especially for those struggling with weight loss through diet and exercise alone.
How the Allurion Swallowable Balloon Works
Unlike traditional IGB procedures, which require an endoscopy for insertion, the Allurion balloon can be swallowed in the form of a capsule. Once ingested, the balloon is inflated with 550 milliliters of water, and it remains in the stomach for four months. The balloon’s presence induces a feeling of fullness, helping patients consume smaller portions. After four months, the balloon naturally deflates and exits the body through the digestive system during bowel movements.
Made of durable and flexible polyurethane or elastomer polymers, the balloon is designed to withstand the stomach’s internal pressure, with a low risk of rupture, making the procedure both safe and simple. The entire process takes just 10 to 20 minutes.
Lifestyle Changes Essential for Success
The Allurion IGB procedure is not a “quick-fix” solution to obesity. While it can result in an average weight loss of 10-15%, patients must commit to lifestyle changes for the treatment to be effective. Dr. Nik Ritza Kosai emphasizes the importance of increased physical activity, controlled calorie intake, and maintaining a healthy diet. With the balloon in place, patients often experience early satiety, reducing their overall food intake and creating a calorie deficit that leads to weight loss.
A 2021-2022 study involving 486 patients at a high-volume bariatric center in Malaysia found that after four months, participants lost an average of 10.5% of their body weight. Even a year later, weight loss continued, reaching up to 13.7%.
Diet and Post-Procedure Care
Dr. Loo Guo Hou, a bariatric surgeon at HCTM, stresses that patients undergoing the IGB procedure must follow a strict dietary regimen. The first three days after the procedure consist of a full-liquid phase, allowing only clear fluids like water, fat-free soup, and sugar-free juices to help the stomach adjust to the balloon. From Day 4 to Day 7, patients are instructed to consume formula milk.
In the second phase (Day 8-14), soft foods such as porridge, low-fat yogurt, and fruit purees are introduced, with portion sizes carefully controlled. By the third week, solid foods like boiled eggs, steamed fish, and vegetables can be reintroduced, although low-fat, low-sugar, and high-fiber options are recommended.
Success Stories
The Allurion IGB procedure has yielded impressive results for many patients. Aqilah Yunus, 30, lost 23 kg after undergoing the treatment in January 2023. She noticed results within the first week and, over four months, significantly reduced her sugar intake while incorporating brisk walking into her routine.
Similarly, Syahirah Aqilah, 32, shed 14 kg over 16 months after starting the treatment in August 2023. She highlighted the importance of portion control, frequent smaller meals, and expert guidance for maintaining progress.
For patients like Nur Amalina Elias, 33, who struggled with knee pain and difficulty exercising, the IGB procedure helped her lose four kilograms in two months, although her weight loss was slower due to her mobility issues.
Conclusion
The Allurion swallowable balloon offers a promising non-surgical option for weight loss, especially for those who have struggled with conventional methods like dieting and exercise. However, success with this treatment is contingent on a commitment to healthy lifestyle changes, including maintaining a balanced diet and regular physical activity. When combined with discipline and expert guidance, the Allurion balloon can help individuals manage their weight more effectively and reduce the risk of obesity-related health issues.
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