Our Summary

Obesity is a major health issue and surgery is one common way to address the problem. This study looks at how two types of weight-loss surgery - gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy - affect what people eat. The researchers reviewed 18 previous studies to compare the average daily calorie intake and the types of nutrients eaten before and after these surgeries. They found that, overall, people who had weight-loss surgery consumed about 1,050 fewer calories per day. They also ate less fat (about 1.34 grams less per day) and slightly less protein. However, the surgery didn’t seem to affect how many carbohydrates people ate. This information could be useful for helping patients maintain their weight loss after surgery.

FAQs

  1. How does weight-loss surgery affect daily calorie intake and nutrient consumption?
  2. Does weight-loss surgery affect carbohydrate intake?
  3. Can the findings from this study be useful in helping patients maintain their weight loss post-surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about gastric bypass is to focus on making healthy food choices and portion control. It is important to eat nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to ensure you are getting the necessary vitamins and minerals. It is also important to listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues and to avoid overeating. Additionally, staying hydrated and incorporating regular physical activity into your routine can help support your weight loss and overall health goals.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for gastric bypass surgery are those who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35-39.9 with obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. Additionally, patients who have tried other weight loss methods such as diet and exercise without success may also be recommended for gastric bypass surgery. It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to determine if they are a good candidate for this type of surgery.

Timeline

Before gastric bypass surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes medical evaluation to determine if they are a candidate for surgery.
  2. Patient meets with a dietitian to discuss dietary changes before and after surgery.
  3. Patient may be required to lose a certain amount of weight before surgery.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative tests and consultations with various healthcare professionals.
  5. Patient may be required to follow a specific diet in the days leading up to surgery.

After gastric bypass surgery:

  1. Patient is closely monitored in the hospital for a few days post-surgery.
  2. Patient follows a strict liquid diet for the first few weeks after surgery.
  3. Patient gradually transitions to pureed foods, then soft foods, and eventually solid foods.
  4. Patient attends regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers.
  5. Patient may need to take vitamin and mineral supplements to prevent deficiencies.
  6. Patient is encouraged to make long-term lifestyle changes, including regular exercise and healthy eating habits.
  7. Patient may experience significant weight loss in the months following surgery.
  8. Patient may require additional surgeries or procedures for complications or to address excess skin.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with gastric bypass surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after surgery and what can I expect during this time?
  3. Will I need to make any significant changes to my diet and lifestyle after surgery?
  4. What type of follow-up care and support will be provided after the surgery?
  5. How much weight can I expect to lose after gastric bypass surgery?
  6. Will I need to take any specific vitamins or supplements after the surgery?
  7. How will the surgery affect my ability to absorb nutrients from food?
  8. What are the long-term effects of gastric bypass surgery on overall health and well-being?
  9. Are there any restrictions on physical activity or exercise after surgery?
  10. How soon after surgery can I expect to see improvements in my health and quality of life?

Reference

Authors: Janmohammadi P, Sajadi F, Alizadeh S, Daneshzad E. Journal: Obes Surg. 2019 Mar;29(3):1040-1048. doi: 10.1007/s11695-018-03663-w. PMID: 30610675