Protocol for Research on a Model Focused on Mindfulness Training to Support Weight Management after Bariatric Surgery

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Bariatric surgery has been proposed as a potential treatment for individuals who are severely obese. However, the literature indicates that 20–50% of bariatric patients, experience weight regain 18–24 months after surgery. In addition, some studies suggest that a large percentage of bariatric patients present with inability to respond appropriately to hunger and satiety cues and have difficulty dealing with stress. These factors might ultimately impact successful long-term weight management. Mindfulness meditation has been proposed as an approach that can reduce stress and increase awareness of physical sensations, such as hunger and satiety, while promoting increases in psychological flexibility. Based on these factors and research on the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), we developed a model: The Mindfulness Meditation/Acceptance and Commitment Approach (MMACT), to support successful weight management in bariatric patients. This study will evaluate the impact of a mindfulness training, based on the MMACT model, on the constructs of mindfulness, psychological flexibility, perceived stress, and intuitive eating in adults post-bariatric surgery. We hypothesized that such intervention will increase mindfulness and psychological flexibility, which will lead to a decrease in perceived stress and an increase in intuitive eating. Methods Individuals 12 to 36 months post-bariatric surgery will be recruited to participate in a 6-session mindfulness training program. The training will take place in group settings of 8–10 participants (final n = 45) and outcome measurements will be assessed at three time points, baseline, six and ten weeks. Results The impact of the training on outcome measurements (i.e., mindfulness, psychological flexibility, perceived stress, and intuitive eating) will be evaluated through four validated questionnaires, the Short Form Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire, the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire II, the Perceived Stress Questionnaire, and the Intuitive Eating Scale – 2. Conclusions Evaluation of the MMACT will provide further insight into what factors may impact perceived stress and intuitive eating in bariatric patients and determine the feasibility of mindfulness-based trainings in this population. Funding Sources C.V. Starr Scholarship.