Our Summary

This research paper explains how the brain plays a significant role in obesity and weight loss. Recent studies show that in obese individuals, there are unusual brain activities related to regulation of body functions, reward, emotion, memory, attention, and decision-making associated with eating behaviors. This means that treating obesity is not just about the physical aspect, but also involves the brain.

The paper also discusses different weight loss methods. Behavioral and psychological interventions, which focus on food rewards, attention, and motivation, often lead to minimal weight loss and high chances of gaining the weight back. Medication can effectively help with weight loss and regulate brain activity, but there are concerns about its safety on brain functions.

Lastly, obesity surgery, currently the most effective treatment for obesity, has notable effects on brain activity. It can decrease the activity related to reward and attention toward food, and increase the control of inhibiting response to food cues. The review gives an overview of how these three common weight loss methods affect the brain.

FAQs

  1. What is the role of the brain in obesity and weight loss?
  2. How does obesity surgery affect brain activity related to eating behaviors?
  3. Are there any concerns about the safety of pharmacotherapy for weight loss in relation to brain function?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about obesity surgery is to follow the post-operative guidelines closely, including diet and exercise recommendations, to ensure successful weight loss and long-term health benefits. It is important to attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare team to monitor progress and address any concerns. Additionally, incorporating healthy habits such as regular physical activity and mindful eating can support your weight loss journey and overall well-being.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for 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 health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. These patients have often tried and failed to lose weight through diet and exercise alone and may have significant health risks associated with their obesity. Additionally, candidates for obesity surgery should be committed to making lifestyle changes and participating in post-operative care to ensure the success of the procedure.

Timeline

Before Obesity Surgery:

  1. Patient consults with a healthcare provider about their weight and potential options for treatment.
  2. Patient undergoes a series of assessments, including physical exams, blood tests, and psychological evaluations, to determine if they are a candidate for obesity surgery.
  3. Patient meets with a dietitian or nutritionist to develop a pre-surgery diet plan and learn about post-surgery dietary guidelines.
  4. Patient attends informational sessions or support groups to learn about the different types of obesity surgery and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

After Obesity Surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes the surgical procedure, which may involve gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, or gastric banding, among others.
  2. Patient stays in the hospital for a few days for recovery and monitoring.
  3. Patient follows a strict post-surgery diet plan, which typically starts with clear liquids and gradually progresses to solid foods.
  4. Patient attends follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor weight loss progress, address any complications, and make adjustments to their diet and exercise regimen.
  5. Patient may experience changes in appetite, taste preferences, and metabolism as their body adjusts to the surgery.
  6. Patient may also experience improvements in obesity-related health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
  7. Patient continues to attend support groups or counseling sessions to help maintain their weight loss and address any emotional or psychological challenges related to their surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the different types of obesity surgery available and which one would be most suitable for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with obesity surgery?
  3. How much weight can I expect to lose after the surgery?
  4. Will I need to make any changes to my diet and lifestyle post-surgery?
  5. How will obesity surgery affect my overall health and well-being?
  6. What type of follow-up care will be needed after the surgery?
  7. How will obesity surgery impact my mental health and emotional well-being?
  8. Are there any long-term effects on brain function associated with obesity surgery?
  9. What are the success rates of obesity surgery in terms of long-term weight loss maintenance?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that I should consider before opting for obesity surgery?

Reference

Authors: Lin Z, Qu S. Journal: Obes Surg. 2020 May;30(5):1988-2002. doi: 10.1007/s11695-020-04474-8. PMID: 32096018