Factors Associated with Dietary Intake and Changes in Nutritional Status Following Bariatric Surgery Among Saudi Adults

Abstract

Background:

This study aimed to assess the nutritional status of Saudi individuals postbariatric surgery and associated factors.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study included 146 Saudis, aged 20–50 years, who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. An online survey was distributed to collect demographic data and consent for participation. Weight history, anthropometrics, and dietary data were collected from each participant during a phone interview. Data regarding dietitian visit(s) and supplement use were also collected.

Results:

Participants who underwent the surgery >5 years ago had the most weight loss, whereas weight of the participants started to stabilize at 2-years postprocedure. Only 22% of study participants reached a body mass index of <25 kg/m² after the surgery. Energy-adjusted intakes of vitamin B₁₂ and vitamin D were significantly higher among supplement users. Dietitian visit was not associated with dietary intake or weight reduction. Energy-adjusted intake of vitamin B₁₂ was significantly associated with the time of procedure (p = 0.001).

Conclusions:

Our findings indicated poor dietary intake of some nutrients and weight stabilization in the long term following bariatric surgeries. Future research must be established to investigate the prevalence of malnutrition among individuals who underwent bariatric surgeries and to develop evidence-based interventions to improve patients' nutritional status.