The Only Way Is Essex's James Argent reveals he is undergoing gastric surgery

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From Digital Spy

The Only Way is Essex star James Argent has revealed he's undergoing gastric surgery as a last resort to lose weight.

Speaking to the Mail Online, the reality star said doctors have warned him about his health after putting on a significant amount of weight during lockdown.

James explained how, despite losing some weight after a year of being sober, the closure of gyms resulted in him spending hours alone, comfort eating at home.

Photo credit: Tristan Fewings - Getty Images
Photo credit: Tristan Fewings - Getty Images

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"I don't want to die. An op is the only way I can lose weight," he said.

"I see pictures of myself and it's too upsetting. The other day I had to ask my manager to put my shoes on for me because I just couldn't do it — my belly is too big. I can't do up my own shoelaces."

He added: "I don't want to die, it's as simple as that. I've been told by doctors that I am morbidly obese and need to lose weight, but I have an eating disorder, so I can't do it."

James explained to the publication that he's now trying to choose between two types of stomach surgery, which cost around £10,000 each.

Photo credit: ITV
Photo credit: ITV

The star has the choice between a gastric bypass, which involves the stapling of the stomach to make it smaller, and sleeve gastrectomy, a bigger surgery that sees a large section of the stomach removed.

Both procedures reduce the amount of food a patient can eat, which may potentially help them lose weight.


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