Our Summary

This research paper discusses celiac disease, a common condition where the immune system attacks the small intestine when gluten is consumed. This leads to difficulty absorbing certain nutrients and can result in vitamin deficiencies. Celiac disease can present itself in many different ways, making it hard to diagnose. With the rise in obesity rates, more people with celiac disease are also overweight or obese, leading to questions about the use of weight loss surgery (bariatric surgery).

However, there isn’t much research on how bariatric surgery affects people with celiac disease. This paper reviews what is known about the topic, including how the surgery might affect weight loss, nutrient deficiencies, how well people stick to a gluten-free diet, and any long-term complications after the surgery. The paper also looks at whether bariatric surgery affects the likelihood of developing celiac disease.

FAQs

  1. How does celiac disease affect patients who are overweight or obese?
  2. What is the impact of bariatric surgery on celiac disease patients in terms of weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, and long-term post-operative complications?
  3. Does bariatric surgery have any effect on the incidence of celiac disease?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering obesity surgery that it is important to follow a strict gluten-free diet if they have celiac disease, as surgery can impact the body’s ability to absorb nutrients and may increase the risk of deficiencies. It is crucial to work closely with a healthcare team, including a nutritionist, to ensure proper nutritional support before and after surgery. Additionally, patients should be aware of the potential long-term complications and discuss their individual risks with their healthcare provider before proceeding with surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended obesity surgery are those who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, or heart disease. These patients have been unable to achieve significant and sustained weight loss through diet and exercise alone. Additionally, patients who have a BMI of 30 or higher with significant comorbidities may also be considered for obesity surgery. It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a multidisciplinary team, including a bariatric surgeon, nutritionist, psychologist, and other specialists, to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for their individual needs.

Timeline

Before obesity surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes consultation with healthcare provider to discuss weight loss options.
  2. Patient undergoes comprehensive evaluation including medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests.
  3. Patient may be required to undergo pre-operative counseling and preparation to address any potential risks or concerns.
  4. Patient may be placed on a specialized diet or exercise program to prepare for surgery.

After obesity surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes post-operative recovery period in the hospital or outpatient setting.
  2. Patient receives instructions on post-operative care, including diet and exercise guidelines.
  3. Patient may experience weight loss and improvements in overall health and quality of life.
  4. Patient may require regular follow-up appointments with healthcare provider to monitor progress and address any complications.
  5. Patient may need to make long-term lifestyle changes to maintain weight loss and prevent complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. Is bariatric surgery a safe and effective option for me as a patient with celiac disease and obesity?

  2. How will bariatric surgery impact my ability to adhere to a strict gluten-free diet post-operatively?

  3. What nutritional deficiencies should I be aware of after undergoing bariatric surgery, and how can I prevent them as a patient with celiac disease?

  4. Will bariatric surgery affect my body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients, such as fat-soluble vitamins, and how can I mitigate these risks?

  5. How will bariatric surgery impact my long-term health outcomes as a patient with celiac disease, including the risk of developing complications related to malabsorption or autoimmune responses?

  6. Are there any specific considerations or modifications that need to be made to the bariatric surgery procedure for patients with celiac disease?

  7. How will bariatric surgery impact my weight loss journey as a patient with celiac disease, and what are realistic expectations for weight loss outcomes?

  8. What ongoing monitoring and follow-up care will be necessary for me as a patient with celiac disease who has undergone bariatric surgery?

  9. Are there any potential risks or contraindications to consider before proceeding with bariatric surgery as a patient with celiac disease?

  10. Can you provide me with information or resources on support groups or counseling services specifically for individuals with celiac disease who are considering bariatric surgery?

Reference

Authors: Lojou M, Sahakian N, Dutour A, Vanbiervliet G, Bege T, Gaborit B. Journal: Obes Surg. 2020 Jul;30(7):2791-2799. doi: 10.1007/s11695-020-04607-z. PMID: 32314256