Graham Elliot Undergoes Major Weight Loss Surgery

MasterChef judge Graham Elliot underwent major weight loss surgery July 16, according to a People magazine article.

Elliot opted to undergo a sleeve gastrectomy after topping out at 400 pounds. "Weight is something I've battled all my life," Elliot told People. "It's hard to get in and out of a car, tie my shoe, or play with my kids."

Elliot, who is the father to sons Mylo, 6, Conrad, 2 ½, and Jedediah, 10 months, opted for a sleeve gastrectomy instead of gastric bypass surgery because with the latter the patient often cannot eat certain foods, a limitation that would not serve Elliot well in his line of work. "This procedure will allow me to still taste and try everything," said Elliot, adding, "I will feel full quicker because my stomach is that much smaller... I won't need six cheeseburgers to feel full."

Before undergoing surgery, Elliot was seeing a psychologist and a nutritionist and transitioned to a 1,000-calorie-a-day diet consisting of protein shakes and broths. He says doctors predict he could lose up to 100 pounds in half a year and that his "biggest goal is to start running... I'm super excited to run miles on a treadmill."