Food habits after bariatric surgery: changes, evolutions, stays and results

Surgery treatment is currently the most effective option for reducing and maintaining weight loss in morbidly obese patients. Changes in dietary habits should be continuous for obtaining successful treatment. This study aimed to identify and analyze changes in dietary habits developed after bariatric surgery relating them to the treatment of nutritional deficiencies and complications resulting from surgery. The study was conducted from August to October2013, with the participation of 60 invited patients assisted by the Obesity Nucleus of Ceará. A self-administered quiz was made to evaluatethe feeding behavior before and after the surgery. Statistical tests were performed using GraphPad Prism Software, considering statistical significance levelof p<0.05. There were prevalence of night-eaters feeding behavior (58 %), changes in chewing, considerable reduction in fluid intake in meal patterns, and the presence of complications and disabilities such as alopecia (41 %), dumping (37 %), vitamin B12 deficiency (20%), calcium and vitamin D deficiency (12%). The feeding frequency showed an increased intake of fruits and raw vegetables, wholemeal pasta, but a reduction in milk and dairy products ingestion. Several changes in eating habits have evolved after surgery, confirming the importance of proper monitoring by a nutritionist.