Adequacy of Dietary Nutrients Intake after Laparoscopic Gastric Plication Surgery: A Quasi-Experimental Study.

Background: There is increasing evidence that surgical approaches to weight loss (bariatric surgery) are the most effective and steady treatment for morbidly obese patients. This study assessed the nutritional status of obese participants candidates for laparoscopic gastric plication (LGP) before and after the surgery. Materials and Methods: Our study was conducted on 38 participants aged 18 to 65, with a mean body mass index (BMI) of 41.45±5.68 kg/m2, scheduled for LGP. BMI and Dietary intakes were assessed at baseline and 6 months after surgery. The mean daily energy intake and microand macronutrients were calculated and compared with the dietary reference intake each time. Results: The mean excess weight loss was 44.45±9.78%. The mean daily energy intake decreased to one-third of the baseline 6 months after surgery. All patients had a low intake of protein, vitamins A, D, and folic acid before and after LGP. After surgery, over 60% of patients had inadequate vitamin B1, B2, B3, B6, calcium, and iron levels. Conclusion: 6 months after LGP, our results demonstrated dietary deficiencies, including inadequate protein and certain micronutrients. Some of these nutritional deficiencies existed before surgery and persisted or worsened after surgery. In order to ensure optimal health before and after surgery, patient care should place a strong emphasis on nutritional counseling and supplementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]