Effect of exercise training before and after bariatric surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Assessment and medical management of weight regain after adolescent metabolic and bariatric surgery: a narrative review

Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) in adolescents results in durable treatment of severe obesity and related complications for most. However, substantial weight regain can undermine long-term health benefits. There is no evidence-based standard of care for the medical management of weight regain after MBS in pediatrics or adults. This narrative review summarizes current pediatric evidence pertaining to the assessment and medical management of post-MBS weight regain, identifies gaps, and offers recommendations. A PubMed search was conducted through March 2024 and focused on adolescents after sleeve gastrectomy or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Domains included nutrition, activity, mental health, antiobesity medications, type 2 diabetes, hypothalamic obesity, and transition of care. In total, 600 articles were screened and 61 were included in this review. Recent consensus definitions for post-MBS weight regain have been established for adults but have not been validated in pediatrics. Limited, high-quality evidence was identified in the nutrition domain, where targets that may mitigate weight regain include adequate protein intake (≥60 g/d), absence of loss-of-control eating, and micronutrient sufficiency. Emerging data for post-MBS antiobesity medications in adults with/without diabetes and in adolescents with persistent obesity are promising. Large gaps include post-MBS interventions focused on physical activity and mental health. The overall quality of pediatric-specific evidence for the assessment and medical management of post-MBS weight regain is low. A standard definition of weight regain associated with health outcomes in pediatrics would be valuable. Clarifying risk and protective factors for weight regain can guide more precise risk stratification and treatment.

Effect of a high-impact exercise program on hip strength indices in a group of obese women after bariatric surgery

The purpose of this study was to explore the influence of a 12-month high-impact physical training program (descending stairs) on bone health in a group of young obese women who had undergone bariatric surgery (type sleeve). Fifty-two premenopausal women with a body mass index (BMI) > 35 kg/m2 (range: 35.06-60.97 kg/m2), aged 19-47 years old were included in this study. Patients were randomized to either exercise group (EG), control group (CG) or observational group (OG). 2 to 3 weeks post-bariatric surgery (BS), EG underwent a 12-month semi-supervised high impact (descending stairs) exercise program, CG performed a 12-month oriental dance activity while the third OG received only standard medical care. Patients were assessed before BS and 12 months post-BS for body composition, bone mineral density (BMD) and femoral neck geometry. Bone parameters were evaluated by DXA. At baseline, there were no significant differences among the three groups in the clinical characteristics and the bone variables. 12 months after the surgery, there were some group*time interactions. The 3 groups showed significantly lower whole body BMD (-1.8; -2.9; -4.2 % respectively for EG; CG and OG). The EG showed a significant increase of the femoral neck BMD (+1.4 %; p < 0.05), the femoral neck cross-sectional area (+4.6 %; p < 0.05), and the femoral neck cross-sectional moment of inertia (+15.7 %; p < 0.01) while all these values decreased significantly in the 2 other groups. The total hip BMD decreased in all groups, but the EG showed less significant total hip variation, and lumbar spine BMD decreased significantly only in the OG. This study mainly shows that the stair descent can be considered as an effective high-impact physical exercise for obese women who have undergone bariatric surgery. This kind of exercise has significant effects in maintaining or reducing the loss of BMD at the femoral neck and the total hip. Finally, since the EG group showed significant increases in femoral neck geometry variables, this study suggests that this kind of training could be efficient at reducing the hip fracture risk.

Long-Term Follow-Up After Bariatric Surgery: Key to Successful Outcomes in Obesity Management

Background/Objectives: Bariatric surgery (BS) is considered one of the most effective interventions for the treatment of obesity. To achieve optimal long-term results, continuous follow-up (FU) within a multidisciplinary treatment team is essential to ensure patient compliance and maximize the benefits of BS. However, many patients find it difficult to maintain regular FU, which can affect the quality of care and lead to postoperative complications. This review aims to highlight factors that may hinder compliance with FU after BS, examine potential causes and consequences of inadequate FU, and identify strategies to improve patient participation in long-term FU. Methods: The literature search was conducted between October 2023 and June 2024 in Medline (PubMed) and the Cochrane Library datasets. Studies were selected for their relevance to adherence to FU, multidisciplinary approaches, and long-term bariatric outcomes. Results: The pre- and postoperative period is critical for educating patients and healthcare team members about the importance of FU, addressing potential barriers (e.g., logistical, psychological, and social challenges), and highlighting the risk of relapse to obesity after surgery. The lack of a standardized FU protocol leads to differences between medical centers, further impacting patient adherence. Conclusions: Tailored and regularly updated strategies are essential to address individual patient needs and improve adherence to FU. Further research is needed to identify the specific factors that influence variability in long-term BS outcomes, highlighting the need for a patient-centered approach to obesity treatment.

Metabolic and hepatic phenotypes in sarcopenic obesity and impact of bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Sarcopenic obesity (SO) is associated with cardiometabolic disorders and steatotic liver disease and carries major health risks. We assessed the hepatic and metabolic clinical phenotype associated with SO in patients with obesity undergoing bariatric surgery (BS). We also evaluated whether weight-loss and metabolic improvement post-surgery differ between patients with and without SO.

METHODS

972 consecutive patients from a single-center BS cohort who underwent whole-body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and peri-operative liver biopsy were included. SO was diagnosed using the AIM-SO score, an AI-assisted unbiased clustering algorithm based on body composition. One-year post-surgery, 862 patients were reassessed for AIM-SO score changes.

RESULTS

Pre-operatively, 207 (21.3 %) patients were diagnosed with SO. These patients had significantly higher prevalence of type-2 diabetes (T2D), arterial hypertension and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) compared to patients without SO (all p ≤ 0.003). Patients with SO had more severe liver damage: higher grades of moderate/advanced steatosis (64.2 % vs. 47.3 %), steatohepatitis (44.4 % vs. 32.3 %) and advanced fibrosis (12.1 % vs. 6.0 %) (all p ≤ 0.01). One-year post-BS, 58.5 % of patients had remission of SO. Patients with persistent SO exhibited less weight-loss than those with SO remission (-23.8 kg vs. -29.1 kg, p < 0.001) and had lower rates of remission for T2D (41.9 % vs. 69.8 %), arterial hypertension (20.8 % vs. 45.3 %), and metabolic syndrome (47.6 % vs. 75.0 %) (all p ≤ 0.009).

CONCLUSION

The DXA-based AIM-SO score identifies patients with SO who are at greater risk of hepatic and cardiometabolic comorbidities, and predicts less favorable weight-loss and metabolic improvements post-BS.

Possible Interaction Between Physical Exercise and Leptin and Ghrelin Changes Following Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass in Sarcopenic Obesity Patients-A Pilot Study

INTRODUCTION

Leptin and ghrelin are two hormones that play a role in weight homeostasis. Leptin, which is produced primarily by adipocytes and is dependent on body fat mass, suppresses appetite and increases energy expenditure. Conversely, ghrelin is the "hunger hormone", it stimulates appetite and promotes fat storage. Bariatric surgery significantly alters the levels and activity of these hormones, contributing to weight loss and metabolic improvements. Clarifying the interplay between bariatric surgery, weight loss, physical exercise, leptin, and ghrelin is essential in developing comprehensive strategies for optimizing the long-term outcomes for candidates who have undergone bariatric surgery, especially for sarcopenic patients.

METHODS

This was a randomized controlled study with two groups (n = 22). The patients in both groups had obesity and sarcopenia. A Roux-en-Y-gastric bypass (RYGB) procedure was performed on all patients. The intervention group participated in a structured exercise program three times per week, beginning one month after surgery and lasting 16 weeks. Patient assessment was performed before surgery (baseline) and after the completion of the exercise program. The control group received the usual standard of care and was assessed similarly.

RESULTS

After surgery, weight, BMI, and lean mass decreased significantly in both groups between the baseline and the second assessment. Leptin levels were not significantly different between baseline and the second assessment in the physical exercise group, but were significantly lower in the control group (p = 0.05). Ghrelin levels increased over time in both groups, but the differences were not significant. When we associated leptin (the dependent variable) with weight (the independent variable), we found that lower weight was associated with lower leptin levels. A similar relationship was also observed between the leptin and sarcopenia parameters (muscle strength and mass), as well as in the bone health parameters (bone mineral density and t-score). Higher ghrelin levels were significantly associated with higher t-scores and z-scores (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Exercise has been shown to have a significant effect on leptin and ghrelin levels after bariatric surgery. By incorporating regular physical activity into their lifestyle, bariatric patients can optimize their weight loss outcomes and improve their overall health. After the physical exercise protocol, patients in the intervention group revealed more established leptin levels, which may indicate a protected pattern concerning decreased leptin levels. An unfavorable profile was evidenced, according to which greater weight loss, sarcopenia, and osteoporosis were associated with lower leptin levels.

Early Changes in Eating Behavior Patterns and Their Relationship with Weight Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Bariatric Surgery

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

Eating behaviors (EB) correlate with weight loss after bariatric surgery (BS). Therefore, the investigation of EB could guide interventions to prevent insufficient weight outcomes.

METHOD

A prospective cohort of 85 patients undergoing Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB; 84.7% female, mean age 44.7 ± 9.3 years) was included. Six months after undergoing RYGB, EB patterns, including cognitive restraint (CR), uncontrolled (UE), and emotional eating (EE), were assessed using the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire R21 (TFEQ-R21). History, physical examination, and anthropometric assessments were collected pre- and 12 months postoperative. Patients were divided based on the percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL < 80% or ≥80%) and EB patterns were correlated with weight outcomes at 12 months.

RESULTS

The %EWL ≥ 80% group demonstrated significantly higher scores in CR and EE compared to %EWL < 80% (p < 0.001 and p = 0.01, respectively). UE scores were similar between groups (p = 0.41). At 12 months postoperative, the %EWL ≥ 80% group had negative correlations between CR and BMI and positive correlations between CR and EWL (rho = -0.33 and rho = 0.29; p = 0.04). Multiple logistic regression considering %EWL ≥ 80% as the aim outcome revealed that CR had a significant influence (OR = 1.037; p = 0.058), while age (OR = 0.962; p = 0.145), sex (OR = 2.984; p = 0.135), UE (OR = 0.995; p = 0.736), and EE (OR = 1.017; p = 0.296) did not.

CONCLUSIONS

EBs influence outcomes after BS, and a model using TFEQ-R21 predicted them. CR six months post-surgery was the strongest predictor of higher EWL at 12 months. Further research is needed to understand the relationship between restrictive EB and BS outcomes, possibly identifying strategies to prevent disordered EB in patients with higher scores.

A Systematic Review Exploring Dietary Behaviors, Psychological Determinants and Lifestyle Factors Associated with Weight Regain After Bariatric Surgery

BACKGROUND

Weight regains after bariatric surgery presents a significant challenge to long-term weight management and overall health outcomes. While clinical and surgical factors influencing bariatric outcomes have been extensively reviewed, there remains a notable gap in understanding how behavioral factors-specifically dietary habits, psychological influences, and lifestyle choices-impact long-term weight maintenance. This systematic review addresses this gap, highlighting the unique role of these behavioral factors in sustaining weight loss post-bariatric surgery.

AIM

This systematic review aims to explore the behavioral factors-including dietary, psychological, and lifestyle influences-associated with weight regain after bariatric surgery.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, focusing on peer-reviewed articles published in English. We included observational studies exclusively focused on adults who experienced weight regain after bariatric surgery, with an emphasis on behavioral factors. Searches were conducted in MEDLINE via PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar, with the last search completed on 10 July 2024. Studies published within the past 10 years were considered. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tool for cross-sectional studies was used to assess the risk of bias. A total of 16 studies met the inclusion criteria: 12 cross-sectional studies, 3 cohort studies, and 1 in-depth interview study.

RESULTS

The review found inconsistencies in the definitions of weight regain across studies. Nonetheless, three primary behavioral factors were identified as potentially contributing to weight regain: dietary non-adherence and eating patterns, psychological determinants, and lifestyle behaviors. Dietary non-adherence included high-calorie food consumption, excessive intake of sweets, carbohydrates, and sweetened beverages, and low protein intake. Psychological factors such as depression, anxiety, emotional eating, and binge eating were prevalent among individuals experiencing weight regain. Lifestyle behaviors, including physical inactivity, smoking, and sedentary habits, also played significant roles.

CONCLUSIONS

Post-bariatric weight management is multifaceted, necessitating a comprehensive approach that addresses dietary, psychological, and lifestyle factors. Most studies on behavioral factors linked to weight regain were cross-sectional with small sample sizes, limiting the ability to infer causality. Future research should include detailed information on dietary adherence, standardized tools to assess physical activity and sedentary behavior, and validated measures for psychological health. Tailored interventions and continuous support from healthcare professionals are essential for maximizing the effectiveness of bariatric surgery, promoting sustainable weight loss, and enhancing overall health outcomes.

The prognostic role of cardiopulmonary exercise testing in obesity

AIM

Poor cardiorespiratory fitness has been suggested to increase the risk of chronic diseases in obesity. We investigated the ability of key variables from cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) to predict all-cause mortality in an obese cohort.

METHODS

The sample included 469 participants of both sexes (mean age 40 ± 13 years) who underwent a CPET for clinical reasons between 1 March 2009 and 1 December 2023. All-cause mortality was the prognostic endpoint. A receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to establish optimal cut-points for CPET variables. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses were used to determine the association between CPET variables and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

There were 46 deaths during a mean follow-up period of 69 ± 48 months, resulting in an annual mortality rate of 2%. Despite the sample being made up of mostly women (70%), there were more deaths in men (18 vs. 6%, p < 0.001).The optimal thresholds for discrimination of survival were as follows: (a) peak oxygen uptake (pVO2) ≤16 mL/kg/min; (b) minute ventilation/carbon dioxide production (VE/VCO2) slope ≥31; (c) ventilatory power ≤5.8 mmHg; and (d) circulatory power ≤2980 mmHg/mL O2/min. Kaplan-Meier survival plots revealed a significant positive association between lower pVO2, circulatory power and ventilatory power values and survival (log-rank, p < 0.001) and higher mortality for men than women. Adjusted Cox regression models showed that a pVO2 ≤16 mL/kg/min had a 20-fold higher risk of mortality when compared with >16 mL/kg/min.

CONCLUSION

Given the strong association of VO2, ventilatory efficiency, circulatory and ventilatory power with all-cause mortality, our findings support the notion that poorer cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with a poor prognosis in patients with obesity.

Health-enhancing physical activity in obesity management: the need to (seriously) go beyond weight loss

There are many false hopes around the impact of physical activity and exercise in obesity management, especially regarding weight loss. Narrowly focusing on weight loss only leads to disappointment for patients and practitioners. Indeed, in persons with overweight or obesity, exercise training, specifically aerobic (i.e. endurance) training, is associated with significant additional weight and fat loss compared to the absence of training. However the magnitude of this effect remains modest, amounting to only 2-3 kg additional weight or fat loss on average. We therefore argue that this conversation needs to be re-oriented towards the many potential health benefits of physical activity that can be seen beyond weight loss. Exercise training has been shown to improve the cardiometabolic risk profile by effects including decreasing abdominal visceral fat and improving insulin sensitivity. Aerobic, as well as combined aerobic and resistance (i.e. strength) training, increase cardiorespiratory fitness, a major risk factor for ill health. Resistance training improves muscle strength, another major component of physical fitness, even in the absence of a significant change in muscle mass. Beyond body mass loss, recognizing the broad value of physical activity/exercise in improving health and quality of life of people with obesity is a crucial perspective shift.

Effects of bariatric surgery on muscle strength and quality: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Obesity is a major health burden worldwide. Although bariatric surgery (BS) is recognized as an effective strategy for weight loss and comorbidities improvement, its impact on muscle strength and quality is still unclear. We aimed to examine postoperative changes in muscle strength and quality and their relationship with body mass index (BMI) changes among adults undergoing BS. To this end, we systematically searched the WoS, PubMed, EBSCO, and Scopus databases. The meta-analyses, which included 24 articles (666 participants), showed that BS reduces absolute lower-limb isometric strength (ES = -0.599; 95% CI = -0.972, -0.226; p = 0.002). Subjects who experienced a more significant reduction in BMI after BS also suffered a higher loss of absolute muscle strength. Similarly, absolute handgrip strength showed a significant decrease (ES = -0.376; 95% CI = -0.630, -0.121; p = 0.004). We found insufficient studies investigating medium- and long-term changes in muscle strength and/or quality after BS. This study provides moderate-quality evidence that BS-induced weight loss can reduce the strength of appendicular muscles in the short term, which should be addressed in management these subjects. More high-quality studies are needed to evaluate the impact of BS on muscle strength and the different domains of muscle quality in the medium and long term (registered on PROSPERO CRD42022332581).

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials to Evaluate the Impact of Exercise on Heart Rate Variability Post-Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is an approach used to treat patients with obesity in a small minority of eligible patients. Non-pharmacological therapies are important to maintain decent health status post-bariatric surgery. We performed a systematic review with meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of exercise on heart rate variability (HRV) in patients submitted to bariatric surgery. The searches were made via MEDLINE/PubMed (via the National Library of Medicine), EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus databases. We included non-blind, single-, or double-blind randomized control trials in patients older than 18 years of age submitted to bariatric surgery. The intervention group should be submitted to an exercise training protocol, including aerobic, strength, and other exercise modality after bariatric surgery. We documented 245 studies, and after screening and eligibility phases, only 4 were included. We observed no significant change for the SDNN: subtotal = 19.74 (CI: -4.98, 44.45), p = 0.12, I2 = 85% (very low quality of evidence); pNN50: subtotal = 13.09 (CI: -9.17, 35.35), p = 0.25, I2 = 93% (very low quality of evidence); RMSSD: subtotal = 8.44 (CI: -3.61, 25.50), p = 0.17, I2 = 95% (very low quality of evidence); SD1: subtotal = 9.36 (CI: -4.48, 23.21), p = 0.19, I2 = 96% (very low quality of evidence). We could not detect significant effects of exercise on resting HRV after bariatric surgery. The low certainty of the results via the evidence level analysis suggest further studies might be beneficial.

Associations of weather and air pollution with objective physical activity and sedentary time before and after bariatric surgery: a secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study

Purpose

Identifying factors that influence moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary time in metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) patients is necessary to inform the development of interventions. Weather/environmental factors may be especially important considering rapid climate change and the vulnerability of people with obesity to heat and pollution. Our study aimed to examine the associations of weather (maximal, average and Wet Bulb Globe Temperatures), and air pollution indices (air quality index [AQI]) with daily physical activity (PA) of both light (LPA) and MVPA and sedentary time before and after MBS.

Materials and methods

Participants (n = 77) wore an accelerometer at pre- and 3, 6, and 12-months post-MBS to assess LPA/MVPA/ sedentary time (min/d). These data were combined with participants' local (Boston, MA or Providence, RI, USA) daily weather and AQI data (extracted from federal weather and environmental websites).

Results

Multilevel generalized additive models showed inverted U-shaped associations between weather indices and MVPA, with a marked reduction in MVPA for daily maximal temperatures ≽20 °C. Sensitivity analysis showed a less marked decrease of MVPA (min/d) during higher temperatures after versus before MBS. Both MVPA before and after MBS and sedentary time before MBS were negatively impacted by higher AQI levels.

Conclusion

This study is the first to show that weather and air pollution indices, even in locations with good AQI and moderate temperatures, are related to variability in activity behaviors, particularly MVPA, during pre- and post-MBS. Weather/environmental conditions should be considered in MVPA prescription/strategies for adults who have undergone MBS.

Evaluation of the Effect of the Pre-Operative Exercise Training on Weight Loss, Quality of Life, and Cardiopulmonary Parameter in Bariatric Metabolic Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of pre-surgery exercise training on cardiopulmonary fitness. Ten articles (six RCTs and four non-RCTs) involving 281 individuals were finally included in the synthesis. Regarding the effect on VO2 peak, overall standardized mean differences were 0.71 (95% CI, 0.31 to 1.11, n = 103) with heterogeneity (I2 = 0%, P = 0.49). For 6MWT, overall weighted mean differences (distance in meters) were 31.87 (95% CI, 27.84 to 35.89, n = 100) with heterogeneity (I2 = 0%, P = 0.96). Engaging in pre-bariatric metabolic surgery exercise training might improve anthropometric parameters and cardiopulmonary fitness with no significant changes in components of quality of life. However, considering high levels of heterogeneity, the results should be generalized cautiously.

Effects of whole-body vibration on body composition, microbiota, cardiometabolic markers, physical fitness, and quality of life after bariatric surgery: protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Morbid obesity is a complex chronic condition characterized by a body mass index of 40 kg/m2 or higher. The incidence of the condition is on the rise in developed countries, and bariatric surgery has been proposed as a potential solution to address this trend. Nonetheless, bariatric surgery may also result in adverse effects, including a reduction in bone mineral density (BMD) and muscle mass, as well as an increased risk of fractures. The present study aims to elucidate the effects of bariatric surgery and whole-body vibration (WBV) training on body composition, microbiota, physical fitness, quality of life, and cardiometabolic markers.

METHODS

Twenty-eight participants (14 females), aged 18 to 50 years, will undergo sleeve gastrectomy surgery. They will be randomly allocated into a control group or a WBV training group. The WBV group will train three times per week with increasing intensities and duration ranging from 30 to 45 min over the 4-month training period. Measurements of body composition (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and peripheral quantitative computed tomography), physical fitness (muscular strength, agility, cardiorespiratory fitness, and balance), gait biomechanics, cardiometabolic markers, gut microbiota, quality of life, and physical activity levels will be collected at four different time points: (1) prior to the surgery, (2) 45 days post-surgery, (3) 6 months post-surgery, and (4) 18 months post-surgery.

DISCUSSION

Both groups are expected to experience improvements in most of the aforementioned variables. Nonetheless, we expect the WBV group to show larger improvements proving that the training is effective and safe.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT05695599. Registered on January 25, 2023.

Using Positive Psychology to Address Emotional Barriers to Physical Activity After Bariatric Surgery: Proof-of-Concept Trial of the Gaining Optimism After Weight Loss Surgery (GOALS) Project

Physical activity promotes health and longevity after metabolic/bariatric surgery (MBS), but most patients do not meet recommended levels. The Gaining Optimism After weight Loss Surgery (GOALS) Project was a positive psychological intervention designed to address common emotional barriers to physical activity in patients who have recently undergone MBS (e.g., low confidence around exercise, internalized weight bias, fear of injury) and use motivational interviewing and standard behavior change techniques (e.g., self-monitoring) to increase physical activity. This single-arm proof-of-concept trial was designed to refine the intervention, test feasibility and acceptability, and explore pre-post changes in behavioral and psychological outcomes. Participants were 12 adults 6-12 months post-MBS (M age of 46, 58% female, 67% non-Hispanic white). GOALS was a 10-week telephone counseling program that introduced new positive psychological skills and physical activity topics each week. Participants tracked physical activity with a Fitbit and set weekly goals. Results showed that the intervention was feasible (85% of sessions completed) and acceptable (average participant ratings of session ease and utility above 8.0 on a 0-10 scale). There were medium-to-large effect size improvements in physical activity and psychological well-being (e.g., depressive symptoms). The GOALS intervention will next be tested in a pilot randomized controlled trial with longer-term follow-up to assess its effect more robustly.

Acceptability and Feasibility of the Telehealth Bariatric Behavioral Intervention to Increase Physical Activity Before Bariatric Surgery: A Single-Case Experimental Study (Part I)

BACKGROUND

Physical activity (PA) can play an important role in optimizing metabolic/bariatric surgery (MBS) outcomes. However, many MBS patients have difficulty increasing PA, necessitating the development of theory-driven counseling interventions. This study aimed to (1) assess the feasibility and acceptability of the TELEhealth BARIatric behavioral intervention (TELE-BariACTIV) trial protocol/methods and intervention, which was designed to increase moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) in adults awaiting MBS and (2) estimate the effect of the intervention on MVPA.

METHODS

This trial used a repeated single-case experimental design. Twelve insufficiently active adults awaiting MBS received 6 weekly 45-min PA videoconferencing counseling sessions. Feasibility and acceptability data (i.e., refusal, recruitment, retention, attendance, and attrition rates) were tracked and collected via online surveys, and interviews. MVPA was assessed via accelerometry pre-, during, and post-intervention.

RESULTS

Among the 24 patients referred to the research team; five declined to participate (refusal rate = 20.8%) and seven were ineligible or unreachable. The recruitment rate was 1.2 participants per month between 2021-09 and 2022-07. One participant withdrew during the baseline phase, and one after the intervention (retention rate = 83.3%). No participant dropouts occurred during the intervention and 98.6% of sessions were completed. Participants' anticipated and retrospective acceptability of the intervention was 3.2/4 (IQR, 0.5) and 3.0/4 (IQR, 0.2), respectively. There was a statistically significant increase in MVPA [Tau-U = 0.32(0.11; 0.51)] from pre- to post-intervention.

CONCLUSION

Despite a low recruitment rate, which could be explained by circumstances (COVID-19 pandemic), results support feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of the TELE-Bari-ACTIV intervention for increasing MVPA in patients awaiting MBS.

Effect of Corrective Exercise on Static Balance, Food Consumption, and Body Composition in the Early Period After Bariatric Surgery

PURPOSE

To determine the impact of corrective exercise program applied during the period of rapid weight loss following bariatric surgery on static balance, dietary intake, and body composition.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Participants who had undergone Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG) surgery were divided into as Corrective Exercise Group (CEG), and Control Group (CG). CEG underwent a 12-week supervised corrective exercise program. Body composition and static balance of all participants were assessed before and after the study. Their physical activity levels and dietary intake were also evaluated.

RESULTS

Following of the corrective exercise program, both groups exhibited significant reductions in body weight, BMI, fat mass, fat percentage, muscle mass, waist circumference-to-height ratio, and visceral adiposity values (p < 0.05). Additionally, the CEG showed increase in lean body mass percentage (p < 0.001). In measurements related to static balance, values for eyes-closed perimeter (p = 0.015), eyes-closed (p = 0.006), eyes-open (p = 0.028) ellipses area, average F-B speed, and eyes-open center of pressure in the X-axis (C.O.P.X.) sway distance significantly decreased in both groups (p = 0.025). However, the difference in eyes-open C.O.P.X. sway distance was found to be higher in the CG (mean difference = 8.67; p = 0.034). Postoperatively, there were significant decreases in energy, protein, fat, CHO (carbohydrate), CHO percentage, fiber, and iron values, while protein percentage (p < 0.001), vitamin D (p = 0.003), and B12 (p < 0.001) values increased.

CONCLUSION

It has been observed that the corrective exercise program implemented in the early postoperative period following SG surgery had a positive impact on eyes-open static balance.

Muscle Strength of Lower Limbs as a Postoperative Predictor in Bariatric Surgery

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our study was to assess postoperative lower limbs muscle strength (MS) as a predictor of late surgical success (36 months).

METHODS

Body composition analyses and isokinetic dynamometry evaluation were performed before (T0: n=123), six months (T1: n=123) and 36 months (T2: n=79) after Roux-en-y gastric bypass (RYGB). Surgical success (SS) was defined as ≥ 50% excess weight loss (EWL) 36 months after surgery or ≤ 50% surgical failure (SF).

RESULTS

There was no difference between relative MS extension (Ext) and flexion (Flex) in T1 and T2. There was also, no difference between relative MS Ext and Flex in T1 and T2 between patients with SS and SF. There was a difference in relative MS Ext (144.9 ± 39.8 Nm/kg x 125.5 ± 29.2 Nm/kg; p=0.04) and Flex (73.6 ± 21.8 Nm/kg x 60.4 ± 15.8 Nm/kg; p=0.02) between SS and SF patients only in T2. Patients with an increment in Ext and Flex MS ≥4 Nm/kg at T1 had approximately 76% of SS at 36 months.

CONCLUSION

An increase of lower limbs MS ≥4 Nm/kg 6 months after RYGB predicts SS at 36 months.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov ID: NCT04129801.

One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass versus Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: A Randomized Prospective Trial

Background and Objectives: One anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgeries are effective methods used in bariatric surgery. There are limited randomized studies comparing these procedures over more than 2 years. Here, we aimed to compare the 3-year results of two bariatric procedures. Materials and Methods: Patients included in this randomized prospective study were compared in OAGB and RYGB groups. A total of 55 patients, aged between 18 and 65, were eligible for the study. Thirteen patients who did not accept randomization were excluded. Patients were evaluated at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months postoperatively. Results: Three patients were excluded from the study due to loss of communication during the clinical follow-up and one due to death by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, which started in the eighth month after surgery. The study was completed with a total of 38 patients (OAGB; n = 20, RYGB; n = 18). Patients in the two groups were similar in terms of age, gender, body mass index (BMI), and obesity-related comorbidities. At the end of 3-year follow-up, BMI in the OAGB and RYGB groups was 28.80 ± 4.53 kg/m2 and 29.17 ± 5.36 kg/m2, respectively (p = 0.822). Percentage total weight loss (TWL%) was similar. No significant differences were found between the groups regarding percentage excess weight loss (EWL%). Remission of comorbidities was similar. De novo refluxes developed in four OAGB patients; there were no occurrences of these in RYGB patients (p = 0.066). Conclusions: Both OAGB and RYGB are effective in the treatment of morbid obesity. The two procedures are similarly successful in terms of obesity-related comorbidities.

Prevalence of Perceived Barriers to Physical Activity Among Pre- and Post-Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to describe and compare the prevalence of perceived barriers to physical activity (PBPA) in pre- and post-metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) patients and assess the association of these barriers with their physical activity levels.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study included pre-operative (n = 63) and post-operative (n = 119) groups. Sociodemographic characteristics, leisure-time physical activity levels, and PBPA data were collected. Descriptive statistics, chi-square, and Fisher's exact tests, and binomial logistic regression analyses were used for comparisons and associations.

RESULTS

Compared to the pre-operative group, the post-operative group had a lower prevalence of barriers in the physical domain (p = 0.036) and the behavioral domain (p = 0.004). However, there were no significant differences in the environmental (p = 0.531) or social (p = 0.597) domains. Pre-MBS patients were more likely to be physically inactive when perceiving barriers in the environmental (p = 0.048) and behavioral (p = 0.048) domains. In contrast, post-surgical patients were more likely to be physically inactive when perceiving barriers in the environmental (p = 0.027), social (p = 0.020), and behavioral (p = 0.037) domains.

CONCLUSION

The results show that individuals who underwent metabolic and bariatric surgery have a lower prevalence of behavioral and physical PBPA compared to those awaiting the procedure. The perception of barriers to physical activity in the environmental and behavioral domains increases the likelihood of physical inactivity in both pre- and post-MBS patients, while in the social domain, it was only associated with physical activity in post-MBS patients.

Is Physical Activity an Efficient Strategy to Control the Adverse Effects of Persistent Organic Pollutants in the Context of Obesity? A Narrative Review

Obesity affects nearly 660 million adults worldwide and is known for its many comorbidities. Although the phenomenon of obesity is not fully understood, science regularly reveals new determinants of this pathology. Among them, persistent organic pollutants (POPs) have been recently highlighted. Mainly lipophilic, POPs are normally stored in adipose tissue and can lead to adverse metabolic effects when released into the bloodstream. The main objective of this narrative review is to discuss the different pathways by which physical activity may counteract POPs' adverse effects. The research that we carried out seems to indicate that physical activity could positively influence several pathways negatively influenced by POPs, such as insulin resistance, inflammation, lipid accumulation, adipogenesis, and gut microbiota dysbiosis, that are associated with the development of obesity. This review also indicates how, through the controlled mobilization of POPs, physical activity could be a valuable approach to reduce the concentration of POPs in the bloodstream. These findings suggest that physical activity should be used to counteract the adverse effects of POPs. However, future studies should accurately assess its impact in specific situations such as bariatric surgery, where weight loss promotes POPs' blood release.

Levels of Physical Activity, Enjoyment, Self-Efficacy for Exercise, and Social Support Before and After Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: a Longitudinal Prospective Observational Study

INTRODUCTION

Physical activity (PA) after metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) can influence weight loss, health status, and quality of life. Known mediators to participate in PA are enjoyment, self-efficacy, and social support. Little is known about PA behavior in MBS individuals. The aim of this study was to explore levels of PA and the PA mediators enjoyment, self-efficacy, and social support before and after MBS and to investigate changes over time.

METHODS

Adults scheduled to undergo MBS were recruited from a Swedish university hospital. Accelerometer-measured and self-reported PA, body weight, and PA mediators were collected at baseline and at 12 to 18 months post-surgery.

RESULTS

Among 90 individuals included, 50 completed the follow-up assessment and had valid accelerometer data. Sedentary time (minutes/day) was unchanged, but sedentary time as percentage of wear time decreased significantly from 67.2% to 64.5% (p<0.05). Time spent in light PA and total PA increased significantly from 259.3 to 288.7 min/day (p < 0.05) and from 270.5 to 303.5 min/day (p < 0.01), respectively. Step counts increased significantly from 6013 to 7460 steps/day (p < 0.01). There was a significant increase in self-reported PA, enjoyment, self-efficacy for exercise, and positive social support from family. The increase in PA mediators did not lead to a significant change in time spent in moderate to vigorous PA.

CONCLUSION

The increase in PA-mediators was not associated with an increase in moderate to vigorous PA, but the strengthened PA mediators suggest potential for an increase in moderate to vigorous PA in patients undergoing MBS.

Resistance Training in Patients After Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: Protocol for a Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Resistance training has been consistently shown to have multiple health benefits, especially for patients who have undergone bariatric surgery. Patients who have undergone bariatric surgery are recommended to participate in resistance exercise; however, protocols and guidelines for resistance training remain poorly implemented.

OBJECTIVE

This is a protocol for a systematic review and possibly a meta-analysis that will synthesize evidence of the effects of resistance exercise on changes in body composition, muscular strength, overall weight loss or maintenance of weight loss, and quality of life in patients after metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS). The findings of this study may provide practice recommendations for resistance training among patients who have undergone MBS.

METHODS

We registered this systematic review on PROSPERO (CRD42023464928) on September 18, 2023. A systematic search of electronic databases (Embase, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL) was conducted on studies published from January 1, 1991, to May 15, 2023, to identify English-language human studies on adult patients who have undergone MBS that include a resistance training intervention and describe outcome measurements of body composition or strength. Screening will be performed using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, and relevant data elements will be extracted.

RESULTS

Searches and screenings commenced in May 2023. Data extraction and analyses will be completed by the end of December 2023, after which findings will be synthesized and reported by the end of March 2024.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review will summarize the evidence regarding resistance training in patients after MBS. The findings from this systematic review and possible meta-analysis may provide practice recommendations for resistance training protocols in this patient population and identify characteristics of protocols with the best adherence and outcomes. With these results, we anticipate that we will gain a deeper understanding of the role of resistance training after MBS.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42023464928; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=464928.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/49513.

PROMISE: effect of protein supplementation on fat-free mass preservation after bariatric surgery, a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Protein malnutrition after bariatric surgery is a severe complication and leads to significant morbidity. Previous studies have shown that protein intake and physical activity are the most important factors in the preservation of fat-free mass during weight loss. Low protein intake is very common in patients undergoing bariatric surgery despite dietary counseling. Protein powder supplements might help patients to achieve the protein intake recommendations after bariatric surgery and could therefore contribute to preserve fat-free mass. This double-blind randomized placebo-controlled intervention study aims to assess the effect of a daily consumed clear protein powder shake during the first 6 months after bariatric surgery on fat-free mass loss in the first 12 months after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB).

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Inclusion will take place at the outpatient clinic of the bariatric expertise center for obesity of the Maasstad Hospital. Patients will be randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group before surgery. The intervention group will receive a clear protein powder shake of 200 ml containing 20 g of whey protein dissolved in water which should be taken daily during the first 6 months after LRYGB on top of their normal postoperative diet. The control group will receive an isocaloric, clear, placebo shake containing maltodextrine. Postoperative rehabilitation and physiotherapeutical guidance will be standardized and similar in both groups. Also, both groups will receive the same dietary advice from specialized dieticians. The main study parameter is the percentage of fat-free mass loss 6 months after surgery, assessed by multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (MF-BIA).

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The protocol, version 2 (February 20, 2022) has been approved by the Medical Research Ethics Committees United (MEC-U) (NL 80414.100.22). The results of this study will be submitted to peer-reviewed journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05570474. Registered on October 5, 2022.

Effects of a supervised exercise training on body composition after bariatric surgery: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the effects of a multicomponent exercise intervention during the first year post-bariatric surgery (BS) on body composition, weight loss (WL), energy expenditure, and nutrient intake.

METHODS

A total of 84 patients were included in this study and were randomly assigned to either an exercise group (n = 41) or a control group (n = 20). The exercise group participated in a multicomponent exercise program that began 1-month post-BS, whereas the control group received only standard medical care post-BS. Body composition was assessed by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, and physical activity energy expenditure was assessed by accelerometers. Nutritional intake was assessed through a 4-day food diary.

RESULTS

A total of 6-months post-BS, exercise was found to be effective in mitigating the loss of lower-limb and appendicular lean mass (LM), as well as favoring trunk fat mass (FM) loss. Moreover, it further decreased percent FM and promoted additional excess WL. After 12 months, exercise not only reduced waist circumference but also helped to lessen the loss of total, trunk, and appendicular LM.

CONCLUSIONS

Exercise further induced trunk fat mass, percent FM, excess WL, and waist circumference reductions. Moreover, exercise attenuated the loss of total and regional LM.

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Sarcopenia as Comorbid Chronic Diseases in Older Adults: Established and Emerging Treatments and Therapies

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and sarcopenia (low skeletal muscle mass and function) share a bidirectional relationship. The prevalence of these diseases increases with age and they share common risk factors. Skeletal muscle fat infiltration, commonly referred to as myosteatosis, may be a major contributor to both T2DM and sarcopenia in older adults via independent effects on insulin resistance and muscle health. Many strategies to manage T2DM result in energy restriction and subsequent weight loss, and this can lead to significant declines in muscle mass in the absence of resistance exercise, which is also a first-line treatment for sarcopenia. In this review, we highlight recent evidence on established treatments and emerging therapies targeting weight loss and muscle mass and function improvements in older adults with, or at risk of, T2DM and/or sarcopenia. This includes dietary, physical activity and exercise interventions, new generation incretin-based agonists and myostatin-based antagonists, and endoscopic bariatric therapies. We also highlight how digital health technologies and health literacy interventions can increase uptake of, and adherence to, established and emerging treatments and therapies in older adults with T2DM and/or sarcopenia.

Physical activity and exercise for weight loss and maintenance in people living with obesity

Physical activity and exercise training programs are integral part of a comprehensive obesity management approach. In persons with overweight or obesity, exercise training, specifically aerobic (i.e. endurance) training, is associated with significant additional weight loss compared to the absence of training. However the magnitude of effect remains modest amounting to only 2-3 kg additional weight loss on average. Comparable effects have been observed for total fat loss. Exercise training, specifically aerobic training, is also associated with decreased abdominal visceral fat as assessed by imaging techniques, which is likely to benefit cardiometabolic health in persons with obesity. Based on data from controlled trials with randomization after prior weight loss, the evidence for weight maintenance with exercise training is as yet not conclusive, although retrospective analyses point to the value of relatively high-volume exercise in this regard. Resistance (i.e. muscle-strengthening) training is specifically advised for lean mass preservation during weight loss. Given the relatively limited effect of exercise training on weight loss as such, the changes in physical fitness brought about by exercise training cannot be overlooked as they provide major health benefits to persons with obesity. Aerobic, as well as combined aerobic and resistance training, increase cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) while resistance training, but not aerobic training, improves muscle strength even in the absence of a significant change in muscle mass. Regarding the overall management strategy, adherence in the long term to new lifestyle habits remains a challenging issue to be addressed by further research.

Effect of a Smartphone Application on Physical Activity and Weight Loss After Bariatric Surgery-Results from a Randomized Controlled Trial

PURPOSE

Ways to motivate and support patients in being physically active after bariatric surgery are needed. This trial was aimed at evaluating the effect of using a smartphone application targeting physical activity during 12 weeks on moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA, primary outcome) and secondary outcomes of inactivity, light physical activity (LPA), body mass index (BMI), and percent total weight loss (%TWL) after bariatric surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from a randomized controlled trial comprising 146 patients (79.5% women) undergoing bariatric surgery was analyzed. Mean age and BMI pre-surgery were 40.9 years and 40.5 kg/m2, respectively. Participants were randomized 1:1 to an intervention or a control group. Physical activity and body weight were objectively measured at baseline pre-surgery and post-surgery follow-ups after 6 weeks (weight only), 18 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year. Linear mixed models were fitted to assess longitudinal differences in outcomes between the groups.

RESULTS

A significant effect of the intervention (group-by-time interaction 16.2, 95% CI 3.5 to 28.9) was seen for MVPA at 18 weeks; the intervention group had increased their MVPA since baseline, while the control group had decreased their MVPA. The control group had lowered their BMI approximately 1 kg/m2 more than the intervention group at follow-up after 18 weeks and 12 months, yet, mean BMI did not differ between the groups. No intervention effect was seen on inactivity, LPA, or %TWL.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that use of a smartphone application targeting physical activity may have the potential to promote short-term MVPA post bariatric surgery.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov : NCT03480464.

A pilot study of the effects of supervised exercise training on body composition, cardiometabolic risk factors, muscle strength and functional capacity in individuals with bariatric surgery

The main objective of this pilot study was to evaluate the effects of functional exercise training (FET) and home exercise training (HET) on body composition, cardiometabolic risk factors, muscle strength, and functional capacity in individuals with bariatric surgery. The sample of the study included 30 individuals who underwent bariatric surgery. The FET group had functional exercise training consisting of stretching, aerobic, strengthening, and balance exercises assigned by a physiotherapist (n = 15), and the HET group had the same exercises under supervision (n = 15). The training sessions were planned as × 3 per week for a period of 8 weeks. Body composition, cardiometabolic risk factors, cardiometabolic risk status, muscle strength, and functional capacity of all individuals were evaluated before and after training. According to the measurements, body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI), body fat mass (BFM), C-reactive protein, glycated hemoglobin, insulin resistance, cardiovascular risk total score, and ten-year cardiovascular percentage risk decreased significantly (p < 0.05), while HDL-C, leg, back, and hand grip strength (right-left), and walking distance increased significantly (p < 0.05) in the FET group. In the HET group, there were significant increases in body fat percentage (BFM %), BFM, and body muscle mass percentage (BMM %) (p < 0.05), while body muscle mass (BMM), right hand grip strength, leg and back muscle strength, and walking distance scores significantly decreased (p < 0.05). It was concluded that personalized and supervised FET has a positive effect on body composition, cardiometabolic risk factors, muscle strength, and functional capacity, and it can be recommended as a safe exercise model for bariatric surgery patients.

Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Prescription of Supplements in Pre- and Post-bariatric Surgery Patients: An Updated Comprehensive Practical Guideline

Only in the USA, 315 billion dollars are spent annually on the medical cost of obesity in adult patients. Till now, bariatric surgery is the most effective method for treating obesity and can play an essential role in reducing the direct and indirect costs of obesity treatment. Nonetheless, there are few comprehensive guidelines which include nutrition, physical activity, and supplements, before and after surgery. The purpose of the present narrative review is to provide an updated and comprehensive practical guideline to help multidisciplinary teams. The core keywords include nutrition, diet, physical activity, exercise, supplements, macronutrients, micronutrients, weight reduction, bariatric surgery, Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrostomy, Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding, and Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch which were searched in databases including PubMed/Medline, Cochrane, and some other sources such as Google Scholar. We answered questions in five important areas: (a) nutritional strategies before bariatric surgery, (b) nutrition after bariatric surgery, (c) physical activity before and after bariatric surgery, (d) weight regain after bariatric surgery, and (e) micronutrient assessments and recommendations before and after bariatric surgery. Some new items were added in this updated guideline including "weight regain" and "pregnancy after bariatric surgery." Other fields were updated based on new evidence and guidelines.

Weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery

Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is an effective treatment for patients with morbid obesity and its comorbidities. However, many patients experience weight regain (WR) after achieving their nadir weight. Establishing the definition of WR is challenging as postoperative WR has various definitions. Risk factors for WR after MBS include anatomical, racial, hormonal, metabolic, behavioral, and psychological factors, and evaluating such factors preoperatively is necessary. Long-term regular follow-up and timely treatment by a multidisciplinary team are important because WR after surgery is multi-factorial. Although lifestyle interventions that focus on appropriate dietary education, physical activity education or interventions, and behavioral psychological interventions are suggested, more well-designed studies are needed because studies evaluating intervention methods and the effectiveness of WR prevention are lacking. Anti-obesity drugs can be used to prevent and manage patients with WR after MBS; however, more research is needed to determine the timing, duration, and type of anti-obesity drugs used to prevent WR.

Associations of weather and air pollution with objective physical activity and sedentary time before and after bariatric surgery: a secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study

Background--

Most metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) patients perform too little moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) and too much sedentary time (ST). Identifying factors that influence MVPA and ST in MBS patients is necessary to inform the development of interventions to target these behaviors. Research has focused on individual-level factors and neglected those related to the physical environment (e.g., weather and pollution). These factors may be especially important considering rapid climate change and emerging data that suggest adverse effects of weather and pollution on physical activity are more severe in people with obesity.

Objectives--

To examine the associations of weather (maximal, average and Wet Bulb Globe Temperatures), and air pollution indices (air quality index [AQI]) with daily physical activity (PA) of both light (LPA) and MVPA and ST before and after MBS.

Methods--

Participants (n=77) wore an accelerometer at pre- and 3, 6, and 12-months post-MBS to assess LPA/MVPA/ST (min/d). These data were combined with participants' local (Boston, MA or Providence, RI, USA) daily weather and AQI data (extracted from federal weather and environmental websites).

Results--

Multilevel generalized additive models showed inverted U-shaped associations between weather indices and MVPA (R2≥.63, p<.001), with a marked reduction in MVPA for daily maximal temperatures ≥20°C. Sensitivity analysis showed a less marked decrease of MVPA (min/d) during higher temperatures after versus before MBS. Both MVPA before and after MBS (R2=0.64, p<.001) and ST before MBS (R2=0.395; p≤.05) were negatively impacted by higher AQI levels.

Discussion--

This study is the first to show that weather and air pollution indices are related to variability in activity behaviors, particularly MVPA, during pre- and post-MBS. Weather/environmental conditions should be considered in MVPA prescription/strategies for MBS patients, especially in the context of climate change.

Long-Term Changes in Bone Density and Bone Metabolism After Gastric Bypass Surgery: a Retrospective Cohort Study

PURPOSE

Patients with severe obesity submitted to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) are at risk of developing long-term hypovitaminosis D and secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) as well as osteometabolic disease. This study aimed to evaluate calcium-vitamin D-PTH axis and bone mineral density (BMD) changes from post-RYGB patients who were followed-up until a median of 5 years.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Vitamin D deficiency was defined as 25-hydroxyvitamin D <20 ng/mL and SHPT as PTH >68 pg/mL, in patients with normal serum creatinine and calcium. BMD was estimated by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA, g/cm²).

RESULTS

We included 127 post-RYGB patients (51±10.6 years, 87.4% self-declared White, 91.3% female, 52.8% postmenopausal). Vitamin D deficiency prevalence was the highest (41.5%) in the second year and the lowest (21.2%) in the third year (p<0.05). SHPT prevalence was 65.4% in the second year and increased to 83.7% in the sixth year (p<0.05). Patients with low BMD in lumbar, femoral neck, and total proximal femur were older and presented menopausal status more frequently than normal BMD group (p<0.05). Older age was a risk marker for altered BMD in femoral neck (OR=1.185; 95% CI 1.118-1.256) and in total proximal femur (OR=1.158; 95% CI 1.066-1.258), both after adjusting for follow-up and excess weight loss.

CONCLUSION

After 5 years, most bariatric patients presented calcium-vitamin D-PTH axis disruption, in which SHPT was more frequent than hypovitaminosis D. Older patients and menopausal women presented higher rates of low BMD, and older age was a risk marker, especially for low BMD in femoral sites.

Neighborhood deprivation and residential property values do not affect weight loss at 1 or 3 years after bariatric surgery

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the association between individual- and neighborhood-level sociodemographic factors and surgical weight loss at 1 year (short term) and 3 years (long term).

METHODS

Data were obtained from the baseline survey of the BELONG (Bariatric Experience Long Term) prospective longitudinal cohort study. Individual-level self-reported data on sex, race and ethnicity, education, and household income were obtained by survey. Data from the 2010 US Census were used to calculate area Neighborhood Deprivation Index score and median value of owner-occupied housing units at the census tract level.

RESULTS

Patients (N = 1341) had a mean age of 43.4 (SD 11.3) years, were mostly female (86%), were mostly Black or Hispanic (52%), had some college education (83%), and had annual household incomes ≥$51,000 (55%). Percentage total weight loss was 25.8% (SD 9.0%) at year 1 and 22.2% (SD 10.5%) at year 3. Race and ethnicity and age were significant predictors of weight loss at 1 and 3 years with a small effect of self-reported household income at year 1. There were no significant associations between census tract-level Neighborhood Deprivation Index score or value of owner-occupied housing units and weight loss at either time point.

CONCLUSIONS

Health systems could improve the chances of weight-loss maintenance after surgery by addressing factors related to racial and ethnic disparities and to income disparities.

Long-term Engagement in Physical Activity Among Bariatric Surgery Patients: Associations with Treatment Outcomes at 5-Year Follow-up

PURPOSE

Physical activity studies involving bariatric surgery patients tend to be short-term or cross-sectional investigations. Longer-term studies are limited and typically consist of relatively brief objective measurement periods used to generalize activity patterns. Very little research combines objective measurements with structured interviews to determine both the patterns and related factors of long-term physical activity among patients undergoing bariatric surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Previous volunteers in a perioperative physical activity study were invited to participate in a mixed methods study investigating physical activity among bariatric patients over a 5-year postoperative period. Fifty-one patients (M_age = 45.4 years; 76.5% female, 90.2% White; 86.3% Roux-en-Y procedure) provided interview, survey, accelerometer, and anthropometric data.

RESULTS

Participants were divided into four exercise quartiles, based on self-report of their length of regular exercise involvement from 1 year before through 5 years after surgery. Those reporting the most periods of regular exercise took the most measured steps per day, had greater moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and more bout-related activity, experienced the largest decrease in BMI, and reported the most adherence to nutritional guidelines. Participants reporting the most and least physical activity found the measurement periods to be most similar to their normal activity patterns. While physical activity increased significantly after surgery, measured physical activity did not reach recommended levels for steps or exercise bout minutes.

CONCLUSIONS

Measured physical activity and self-reported physical activity show congruent trends among patients undergoing bariatric surgery. More research is needed to determine optimal long-term monitoring and promotion of physical activity among patients.

Characterizing the interindividual postexercise hypotension response for two order groups of concurrent training in patients with morbid obesity

Background: Postexercise hypotension (PEH) is a common physiological phenomenon occurring immediately after endurance training (ET), resistance training (RT), and ET plus RT, also termed concurrent training (CT); however, there is little knowledge about the interindividual and magnitude response of PEH in morbidly obese patients.

Aim: The aims of this study were (1) to investigate the effect of CT order (ET + RT vs. RT + ET) on the blood pressure responses; 2) characterize these responses in responders and nonresponders, and 3) identify potential baseline outcomes for predicting blood pressure decreases as responders.

Methods: A quasi-experimental study developed in sedentary morbidly obese men and women (age 43.6 ± 11.3 years; body mass index [BMI] ≥40 kg/m²) was assigned to a CT group of ET plus RT (ET + RT; n = 19; BMI 47.8 ± 16.7) or RT plus ET order group (RT + ET; n = 17; BMI 43.0 ± 8.0). Subjects of both groups received eight exercise sessions over four weeks. Primary outcomes include systolic (SBP), diastolic (DBP), mean arterial pressure [MAP], heart rate at rest [HR], and pulse pressure [PP] measurements before and after 10 min post-exercise. Secondary outcomes were other anthropometric, body composition, metabolic, and physical fitness parameters. Using the delta ∆SBP reduction, quartile categorization (Q) in “high” (Rs: quartile 4), “moderate” (MRs: quartile 3), “low” (LRs: quartile 2), and “nonresponders” (NRs: quartile 1) was reported.

Results: Significant pre–post changes were observed in ET + RT in session 2 for SBP (131.6 vs. 123.4 mmHg, p = 0.050) and session 4 (131.1 vs. 125.2 mmHg, p = 0.0002), while the RT + ET group showed significant reductions in session 4 (134.2 vs. 125.3 mmHg, p < 0.001). No significant differences were detected in the sum of the eight sessions for SBP (∑∆SBP) between ET + RT vs. RT + ET (−5.7 vs. −4.3 mmHg, p = 0.552). Interindividual analyses revealed significant differences among frequencies comparing Q1 “NRs” (n = 8; 22.2%), Q2 “LRs” (n = 8; 22.2%), Q3 “MRs” (n = 9; 25.0%), and Q4 “HRs” (n = 11; 30.5%), p < 0.0001. Quartile comparisons showed significant differences in SBP changes (p = 0.035). Linear regression analyses revealed significant association between ∑∆SBP with body fat % (β –3.826, R² 0.211 [21.1%], p = 0.031), skeletal muscle mass [β –2.150, R² 0.125 (12.5%), p = 0.023], fasting glucose [β 1.273, R² 0.078 (7.8%), p = 0.003], triglycerides [β 0.210, R² 0.014 (1.4%), p = 0.008], and the 6-min walking test [β 0.183, R² 0.038 (3.8%), p = 0.044].

Conclusion: The CT order of ET + RT and RT + ET promote a similar ‘magnitude’ in the postexercise hypotensive effects during the eight sessions of both CT orders in 4 weeks of training duration, revealing “nonresponders” and ‘high’ responders that can be predicted from body composition, metabolic, and physical fitness outcomes.

Exercise and bariatric surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the feasibility and acceptability of exercise and controlled trial methods

This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the feasibility and acceptability of exercise and controlled trial methods in adults awaiting or having undergone bariatric surgery (BS). Search methods used to identify relevant articles were inclusion of articles identified in a systematic review, new database search of articles published 2019-2021, and hand searching reference lists. Titles/abstracts and full-texts were screened by two reviewers independently against inclusion criteria: adults awaiting or having undergone BS, controlled trial, exercise group compared with a comparison group without exercise. Twenty-eight articles were reviewed; most interventions were supervised, performed after BS, and lasted ≤13 weeks. Pooled data for exercise intervention attendance and dropout rates were 84% (k = 10) and 5% (k = 19), respectively, though possibly misestimated due to poor/selective reporting. Median study and recruitment duration were 18 weeks and 24 months, respectively, with a pooled enrollment rate of 2.5 participants/month. Pooled data for refusal to participate, enrollment, and retention rates were 23% (k = 16), 43% (k = 18), and 87% (k = 26), respectively. Despite the lack of data available in studies included, exercise and controlled trial methods seem feasible and acceptable for adults awaiting or having undergone BS. To better identify methodological or practical challenges, and assess bias, better reporting of feasibility and acceptability indicators is needed in future studies.

Effects of Supervised Physical Exercise as Prehabilitation on Body Composition, Functional Capacity and Quality of Life in Bariatric Surgery Candidates: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Prehabilitation is a strategy used aiming to reduce the risk factors and complications of surgery procedures, but there is no consensus on the effectiveness of supervised physical exercise and its optimal prescription during this phase. Objectives: To determine the effects of exercise prehabilitation on body composition, functional capacity and quality of life in candidates for bariatric surgery. Search methods: A search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, SciELO, Scopus, MEDLINE and CINAHL. Selection criteria: Only randomized clinical trials that examined the effectiveness of supervised physical exercise were included. The main outcomes were body composition, functional capacity, quality of life and surgical outcomes. Data collection and analysis: Two researchers independently selected the literature, extracted the data and evaluated the risk of bias. A third researcher was consulted when a consensus was not reached. The risk of bias was assessed by the tool recommended by the Cochrane Collaboration, the quality of the evidence by GRADE, and to analyze the effects of prehabilitation on the primary objectives, RevMan software, version 5.3 was used. Main results: The search resulted in 4550 articles, of which 22 met the eligibility criteria, leaving 5 articles selected for this review. One article was assessed as a high bias risk and four as an uncertain risk, which included 139 candidates for bariatric surgery. Most of the studies evaluated the body composition, functional capacity and quality of life; none reported surgical outcomes. Conclusions: Supervised physical exercise has positive effects on the body composition, functional capacity and quality of life; there was no evidence for surgical outcomes, which opens up a field of study for future research of this population.

Effect of exercise training after bariatric surgery: A 5-year follow-up study of a randomized controlled trial

Background and objectives

We previously showed in a 6-month randomized controlled trial that resistance training and protein supplementation after bariatric surgery (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, RYGB) improved muscle strength without significant effect on weight loss and body composition changes. We performed a 5-year follow-up study in these subjects with the aim 1) to assess the long-term effect of this exercise training intervention and 2) to analyze associations between habitual physical activity (PA) and weight regain at 5 years.

Methods

Fifty-four out of 76 initial participants (follow-up rate of 71%) completed the 5-year follow-up examination (controls, n = 17; protein supplementation, n = 22; protein supplementation and resistance training, n = 15). We measured body weight and composition (DXA), lower-limb strength (leg-press one-repetition maximum) and habitual PA (Actigraph accelerometers and self-report). Weight regain at 5 years was considered low when <10% of 12-month weight loss.

Results

Mean (SD) time elapse since RYGB was 5.7 (0.9) y. At 5 years, weight loss was 32.8 (10.1) kg, with a mean weight regain of 5.4 (SD 5.9) kg compared with the 12-month assessment. Moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) assessed by accelerometry did not change significantly compared with pre-surgery values (+5.2 [SD 21.7] min/d, P = 0.059), and only 4 (8.2%) patients reported participation in resistance training. Muscle strength decreased over time (overall mean [SD]: -49.9 [53.5] kg, respectively, P<0.001), with no statistically significant difference between exercise training intervention groups. An interquartile increase in MVPA levels was positively associated with lower weight regain (OR [95% CI]: 3.27 [1.41;9.86]).

Conclusions

Early postoperative participation in a resistance training protocol after bariatric surgery was not associated with improved muscle strength after 5 years of follow-up; however, increasing physical activity of at least moderate intensity may promote weight maintenance after surgery. PA may therefore play an important role in the long-term management of patients with obesity after undergoing bariatric procedure.

Non-pharmacologic treatment for obesity

Background: The prevalence of obesity has been rapidly increasing in the Korean population. Obesity is a well-known risk factor for various chronic diseases, including diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis, chronic kidney disease, degenerative arthritis, and autoimmune diseases. It also increases the risks of different malignancies, gall bladder disease, and pancreatitis.Current Concepts: Lifestyle intervention assisted by frequent behavioral therapy is crucial despite the modest amount of weight loss achieved. Energy intake restriction combined with increased physical activity can not only facilitate weight loss but also improve metabolic health. Furthermore, this combination can help maintain weight reduction during and after lifestyle interventions. Energy intake restriction with a daily deficit of 500–1,000 kcal and physical activity including aerobic exercise for 150 minutes or more per week and resistance training 2–4 times a week are generally recommended for obesity management.Discussion and Conclusion: Comprehensive lifestyle intervention should be individualized and supported by a multidisciplinary team. A long-term behavioral intervention is necessary for success in obesity treatment.

Body Composition Differences Between Excess Weight Loss ≥ 50% and < 50% at 12 Months Following Bariatric Surgery

Background

The relationship between weight loss and body composition is undefined after bariatric surgery. The objective of this study was to compare body composition changes in patients with excess weight loss ≥ 50% (EWL ≥ 50) and < 50% at 12 months post-operatively (EWL < 50).

Methods

A prospective cohort study was completed on patients undergoing bariatric surgery at two tertiary hospitals between 2017 and 2021. Body composition was measured with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry immediately before surgery, and at 1, 6, and 12 months post-operatively. Body mass index (BMI), fat mass (FM), lean body mass (LBM), and skeletal muscle index (SMI) trajectories were analysed between patients with EWL ≥ 50% and EWL < 50%.

Results

Thirty-seven patients were included in this series (EWL ≥ 50% n = 25, EWL < 50% n = 12), comprising of both primary and revisional bariatric surgery cases, undergoing a sleeve gastrectomy (62.2%), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (32.4%), or one anastomosis gastric bypass (5.4%). The EWL ≥ 50% group demonstrated a more optimal mean FM-to-LBM loss ratio than the EWL < 50% group. EWL ≥ 50% patients lost 2.0 kg more FM than EWL < 50% patients for each 1 kg of LBM lost. EWL ≥ 50% was also associated with an increase in mean SMI% over 12 months (5.5 vs. 2.4%; p < 0.0009). Across the whole cohort, the first month after surgery accounted for 67.4% of the total LBM reduction that occurred during the 12-month post-operative period.

Conclusion

This data suggests EWL ≥ 50% is associated with a more optimal body composition outcome than EWL < 50%. LBM reduction occurs predominantly in the early post-operative period.

Graphical abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11695-022-06128-3.

Acceptability and feasibility of the TELEhealth BARIatric behavioural intervention to increase physical ACTIVity (TELE-BariACTIV): A single-case experimental study protocol (Preprint)

Background

Regular physical activity (PA) is recommended to optimize weight and health outcomes in patients who have undergone metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS). However, >70% of patients have low PA levels before MBS that persist after MBS. Although behavioral interventions delivered face-to-face have shown promise for increasing PA among patients who have undergone MBS, many may experience barriers, preventing enrollment into and adherence to such interventions. Delivering PA behavior change interventions via telehealth to patients who have undergone MBS may be an effective strategy to increase accessibility and reach, as well as adherence.

Objective

This paper reports the protocol for a study that aims to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the protocol or methods and the Telehealth Bariatric Behavioral Intervention (TELE-BariACTIV). The intervention is designed to increase moderate-to-vigorous intensity PA (MVPA) in patients awaiting bariatric surgery and is guided by a multitheory approach and a patient perspective. Another objective is to estimate the effect of the TELE-BariACTIV intervention on presurgical MVPA to determine the appropriate sample size for a multicenter trial.

Methods

This study is a multicenter trial using a repeated (ABAB’A) single-case experimental design. The A phases are observational phases without intervention (A1=pre-MBS phase; A2=length personalized according to the MBS date; A3=7 months post-MBS phase). The B phases are interventional phases with PA counseling (B1=6 weekly pre-MBS sessions; B2=3 monthly sessions starting 3 months after MBS). The target sample size is set to 12. Participants are inactive adults awaiting sleeve gastrectomy who have access to a computer with internet and an interface with a camera. The participants are randomly allocated to a 1- or 2-week baseline period (A1). Protocol and intervention feasibility and acceptability (primary outcomes) will be assessed by recording missing data, refusal, recruitment, retention, attendance, and attrition rates, as well as via web-based acceptability questionnaires and semistructured interviews. Data collected via accelerometry (7-14 days) on 8 occasions and via questionnaires on 10 occasions will be analyzed to estimate the effect of the intervention on MVPA. Generalization measures assessing the quality of life, anxiety and depressive symptoms, and theory-based constructs (ie, motivational regulations for PA, self-efficacy to overcome barriers to PA, basic psychological needs satisfaction and frustration, PA enjoyment, and social support for PA; secondary outcomes for a future large-scale trial) will be completed via web-based questionnaires on 6-10 occasions. The institutional review board provided ethics approval for the study in June 2021.

Results

Recruitment began in September 2021, and all the participants were enrolled (n=12). Data collection is expected to end in fall 2023, depending on the MBS date of the recruited participants.

Conclusions

The TELE-BariACTIV intervention has the potential for implementation across multiple settings owing to its collaborative construction that can be offered remotely.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/39633

Effects and Acceptability of Technology-Based Physical Activity Interventions in Bariatric Surgery: a Scoping Review

The aim of this scoping review is to highlight current trends in the emerging field of technology-based physical activity interventions (TbPAI) in pre- and post-bariatric surgery. Original articles published between 2000 and 2020 on eHealth, bariatric surgery, and physical activity were identified through electronic searches of eight databases. Screening, data extraction, and charting were performed independently by two authors and disagreements were resolved by consensus. Nine full-text articles were included in this review. The studies reported that the physical activity outcomes had improved and the interventions were positively perceived by the target population. We highlight some consistent findings, as well as knowledge gaps, and suggest how future studies could be improved.

Effect of COVID-19 Lockdowns on Physical Activity, Eating Behavior, Body Weight and Psychological Outcomes in a Post-Bariatric Cohort

PURPOSE

Little is known about the consequences of COVID-19 lockdowns on physical activity (PA), eating behavior, and mental health in post-bariatric surgery (BS) patients. We aimed to analyze the relations between changes in PA during COVID-19 lockdowns and changes in body weight and a comprehensive set of lifestyle and psychological outcomes in patients who have undergone BS.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In April-May 2020 (lockdown#1), we performed an online survey in a cohort of 937 adults who underwent BS and were followed-up at our university medical center for at least one year. We assessed changes in PA, eating behavior, body weight, fatigue, and depression (PHQ-9). In November-December 2020 (lockdown#2), we recorded body weight in 280 patients who had reported decreased PA during lockdown #1.

RESULTS

During lockdown #1 (N = 420 patients included, 44% response rate), decreased PA was reported by 67% patients. Compared to those who reported increased or unchanged PA, patients with decreased PA were more likely to report a ≥ 5% weight gain (OR (95% CI): 3.15 (1.46-7.65), increased fatigue (2.08 (1.36-3.23)), a worsening of eating behavior (2.29 (1.47-3.58)), and moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms (4.74 (2.14-11.76)). During lockdown #2 (N = 225 patients, 80% response rate), significant weight gain since before lockdown #1 was reported (+ 2.8 (95% CI: 1.7-3.8) kg, p < 0.001), with 36% patients reporting a ≥ 5% weight gain.

CONCLUSIONS

PA may counteract detrimental effects of COVID-19 lockdown on post-BS weight trajectories and mental health outcomes. Follow-up measures are needed in this setting to assess the long-term impact of lockdown.

Does Exercise Improve the Cardiometabolic Risk Profile of Patients with Obesity After Bariatric Surgery? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

We aimed to determine the effects of different exercise types, duration, and onset after bariatric surgery (BS) on cardiometabolic risk factors (CMRFs). A systematic search was conducted up to July 2021. Eleven studies were identified (n = 618 participants). Overall, exercise induced reductions in systolic blood pressure (SBP; - 5.33 mmHg; 95%CI - 8.99, -1.66; p < 0.01). Combined exercises elicited reductions on SBP (- 7.18 mmHg; 95%CI - 12.42, - 1.94; p < 0.01) and triglycerides (- 17.56 mg/dL; 95%CI - 34.15, - 0.96; p = 0.04). SBP reductions were also observed on interventions starting > 6 months post-BS (- 7.71 mmHg; 95%CI - 13.12, - 2.31; p < 0.01), and on > 12-week protocols (- 5.78 mmHg; 95%CI - 9.91, - 1.66; p < 0.01). Overall exercise and particularly aerobic plus resistance protocols were an effective therapy to reduce CMRFs post-BS. Benefits were also observed with interventions starting > 6 months post-BS and with > 12-week duration. Trial registration: CRD42020161175 .

Effects of bariatric surgery on cardiorespiratory fitness: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Although bariatric surgery (BS) is recognized as an effective strategy for body weight loss, its impact on cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is still unclear. We aimed to examine postoperative changes in CRF (VO_2max/peak ) and its relationship with weight loss among adults undergoing BS. We systematically searched the WoS, PubMed, MEDLINE, and Scopus databases. Observational and intervention studies were selected reporting the presurgery and postsurgery CRF, measured by breath-by-breath VO₂ or its estimation. Eleven articles (312 patients) revealed that BS leads to a reduction in absolute VO_2max/peak in the short term (effect size, ES = -0.539; 95%CI = -0.708, -0.369; p < 0.001), and those patients who suffered a more significant decrease in BMI after BS also had a greater loss of absolute VO_2max/peak . However, VO_2max/peak relative to body weight increased after surgery (ES = 0.658; 95%CI = 0.473, 0.842; p < 0.001). An insufficient number of studies were found investigating medium and long-term changes in CRF after BS. This study provides moderate-quality evidence that the weight loss induced by BS can reduce CRF in the short term, which represents a therapeutic target to optimize BS outcomes. More high-quality studies are needed to evaluate the impact of BS on VO_2max/peak in the short, medium, and long term including normalized values for fat-free mass.

Obesity Surgery

BACKGROUND

In 2017, the prevalence of obesity (BMI ≥= 30 kg/m2) in Germany was approximately 16%. Obesity increases an individual's risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and arterial hypertension; it also increases overall mortality. Consequently, effective treatment is a necessity. Approximately 20 000 bariatric operations are performed in Germany each year.

METHODS

This review is based on pertinent publications retrieved by a selective search in the PubMed and Cochrane databases and on current German clinical practice guidelines.

RESULTS

The types of obesity surgery most commonly performed in Germany, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, lead to an excess weight loss of 27-69% ≥= 10 years after the procedure. In obese patients with T2DM, the diabetes remission rate ≥= 10 years after these procedures ranges from 25% to 62%. Adjusted regression analyses of data from large registries have shown that the incidence of malignancies is 33% lower in persons who have undergone obesity surgery compared to control subjects with obesity (unadjusted incidence 5.6 versus 9.0 cases per 1000 person-years). The operation can cause vitamin deficiency, surgical complications, gastroesophageal reflux, and dumping syndrome. Therefore, lifelong follow-up is necessary.

CONCLUSION

In view of an increasing number of patients undergoing bariatric surgery, it will probably not be feasible in the future for lifelong follow-up to be provided exclusively in specialized centers.

Resistance Training Improves Muscle Strength and Function, Regardless of Protein Supplementation, in the Mid- to Long-Term Period after Gastric Bypass

Inadequate protein intake and low levels of physical activity are common long-term sequelae after bariatric surgery and can negatively affect muscle strength (MS) and physical function (PF). The study investigated the effects of resistance training with or without protein supplementation on MS and PF. The study, which involved a 12-week controlled trial (n = 61) of individuals 2-7 years post-Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), comprised four groups: whey protein supplementation (PRO; n = 18), maltodextrin placebo (control [CON]; n = 17), resistance training combined with placebo (RTP; n = 11), and resistance training combined with whey protein supplementation (RTP+PRO; n = 15). An isokinetic dynamometer was used to measure MS (peak torque at 60°/s and 180°/s). PF was measured with the 30-s sit-to-stand (30-STS), 6-min walk (6-MWT), and timed up-and-go (TUG) tests. There were improvements in the absolute and relative-to-bodyweight peak torque at 60°/s and 180°/s, TUG, 6-MWT and 30-STS in the RTP and RTP+PRO groups, but not in the CON and PRO groups. Changes in MS were significantly correlated with changes in PF between the pre- and post-intervention periods. A supervised resistance training program, regardless of protein supplementation, improved MS and PF in the mid-to-long-term period after RYGB and can lead to clinical benefits and improved quality of life.

Impact of Helicobacter pylori-Related Metabolic Syndrome Parameters on Arterial Hypertension

Arterial hypertension is a risk factor for several pathologies, mainly including cardio-cerebrovascular diseases, which rank as leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Arterial hypertension also constitutes a fundamental component of the metabolic syndrome. Helicobacter pylori infection is one of the most common types of chronic infection globally and displays a plethora of both gastric and extragastric effects. Among other entities, Helicobacter pylori has been implicated in the pathogenesis of the metabolic syndrome. Within this review, we illustrate the current state-of-the-art evidence, which may link several components of the Helicobacter pylori-related metabolic syndrome, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and arterial hypertension. In particular, current knowledge of how Helicobacter pylori exerts its virulence through dietary, inflammatory and metabolic pathways will be discussed. Although there is still no causative link between these entities, the emerging evidence from both basic and clinical research supports the proposal that several components of the Helicobacter pylori infection-related metabolic syndrome present an important risk factor in the development of arterial hypertension. The triad of Helicobacter pylori infection, the metabolic syndrome, and hypertension represents a crucial worldwide health problem on a pandemic scale with high morbidity and mortality, like COVID-19, thereby requiring awareness and appropriate management on a global scale.

Effect of exercise training before and after bariatric surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis

We aimed to assess the effectiveness of exercise training programs in adults with severe obesity undergoing bariatric surgery. A systematic search of controlled trials published up to October 2019 that assigned participants to either a preoperative or postoperative exercise training group or a nonexercise group was performed. Meta-analyses were conducted using random-effects models. Twenty-two training programs were assessed (18 performed after bariatric surgery). The effect of preoperative exercise training on postsurgery outcomes was reported in only one study. Compared with the control condition without exercise, postoperative exercise training led to higher weight loss (N = 14, mean difference [95% CI] = -1.8 [-3.2; -0.4] kg, P = 0.01), fat loss (N = 9, P = 0.01), increase in VO₂ max (N = 8, P < 0.0001), and increase in muscle strength (N = 9, P < 0.0001). No significant effect was found on lean body mass (N = 11). Preliminary evidence suggests a beneficial effect of postoperative exercise training on bone mineral density (N = 3, P < 0.001) and weight maintenance after the end of the intervention (N = 2, P < 0.001) but no significant effect on quality of life (N = 2), habitual physical activity (N = 2), or cardiometabolic outcomes (N < 4). In conclusion, exercise training performed after bariatric surgery improves physical fitness and leads to a small additional weight and fat loss and may prevent bone loss and weight regain after bariatric surgery.