Contribution of Ultra-Processed Foods to Weight Gain Recurrence 5 Years After Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate evolution of ultra-processed food intake and recurrent weight gain in patients who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. This study is an observational longitudinal study that evaluated patients who underwent metabolic and bariatric surgery at four time points: before surgery and at 3, 12, and 60months after surgery. Anthropometric and dietary intake data were collected through two 24-h dietary recalls. All foods consumed were classified according to degree of processing. Recurrent weight gain was considered the difference between current weight and nadir weight. The sample consisted of 58 patients with a mean age of 38.7 ± 8.9years and 68% female. After 60months, mean excess weight loss and recurrent weight gain were 73.6 ± 27.2% and 22.5 ± 17.4%. Calorie and macronutrient intake decreased significantly between the pre-surgery period, and 3 and 12months post-surgery; however, there was no significant difference after 60months. In relation to food groups or macronutrients, no difference was observed between the pre-surgery period and 60months post-surgery. The contribution of unprocessed or minimally processed foods to calorie intake gradually decreased after 3months post-surgery. The profile of dietary intake after 60months of metabolic and bariatric surgery tends to approach that of the pre-surgery period. The contribution of unprocessed and minimally processed foods to calorie intake decreased after 60months, while ultra-processed food contribution increased.