Ketogenic diet post-bariatric surgery.

Poor response to bariatric surgery, namely insufficient weight loss (IWL) or weight regain (WR), is a critical issue in the treatment of obesity. The purpose of our study was to assess the efficacy, feasibility, and tolerability of a very low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD) for the management of this condition.  A significant weight loss (mean 14.1 ± 4.8%), mostly due to fat mass, was observed during VLCKD with the preservation of muscular strength. The weight loss obtained allowed patients with IWL to reach a body weight significantly lower than that obtained at the post-bariatric surgery nadir and to report the body weight of patients with WR at the nadir observed after surgery. The significantly beneficial changes in nutritional behaviors and metabolic profiles were observed without variations in kidney and liver function, vitamins, and iron status. The nutritional regimen was well tolerated, and no significant side effects were detected. 

Vinciguerra, F., et. al. 2023.  Journal of Endocrinological Investigation. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40618-023-02034-2.  

We can’t help but wonder if surgical intervention would even be necessary if one would start a ketogenic diet in the setting of BHRT treatment. . . as you can imagine we would say NO!!!! 

Jason & Rita