Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
9.1
5.0
Journals
Nutrients
Special Issues
Diet and Nutrition in Bariatric Interventions
nutrients-logo
Submit to Special Issue Submit Abstract to Special Issue Review for Nutrients Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

► Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser
share announcement

Diet and Nutrition in Bariatric Interventions

A special issue of Nutrients (ISSN 2072-6643). This special issue belongs to the section "Nutrition and Obesity".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 25 October 2026 | Viewed by 3999

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Evelyn Frias-Toral

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Division of Research, Texas State University, 601 University Dr, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA
2. School of Medicine, Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil, Av. Pdte. Carlos Julio Arosemena Tola, Guayaquil 090615, Ecuador
Interests: chrononutrition; healthcare; nutritional strategies; nutritional interventions; metabolic and bariatric surgery
Prof. Dr. Ramos Almino

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Gastro Obeso Center—Metabolic Optimization Institute, Sao Paulo, Brazil
2. Department of Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil
Interests: metabolic surgery; bariatric surgery; laparoscopic surgery; sleeve gastrectomy
Dr. Luigi Schiavo

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
Interests: obesity; obesity management; metabolism; metabolic and bariatric surgery; body composition; micronutrient deficiencies; nutritional supplementation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Bariatric surgery is widely recognized as one of the most effective treatments for severe obesity and its related comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and metabolic syndrome. While surgical techniques have evolved significantly, achieving optimal and sustained outcomes requires an equally strong focus on nutritional management. Nutritional strategies play a vital role throughout the entire bariatric journey, from preoperative preparation to long-term postoperative care.

This Special Issue of Nutrients aims to highlight the indispensable role of nutrition in enhancing the efficacy, safety, and durability of bariatric procedures. We welcome submissions of original research, narrative and systematic reviews, and clinical case studies that explore preoperative nutritional risk screening, micronutrient deficiencies, postoperative dietary protocols, supplementation strategies, and approaches to long-term weight maintenance and metabolic health. Manuscripts that examine the impacts of behavioral counseling, lifestyle modification, patient education, and individualized nutrition plans are particularly encouraged.

We are especially interested in contributions that address diverse patient populations, cultural dietary considerations, and global perspectives on integrated care models. By advancing our understanding of nutritional science in the context of bariatric surgery, this Special Issue aims to support multidisciplinary efforts that will improve the quality of care and long-term outcomes for patients undergoing these transformative interventions.

Dr. Evelyn Frias-Toral
Prof. Dr. Ramos Almino
Dr. Luigi Schiavo
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Nutrients is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • bariatric surgery
  • nutritional management
  • obesity-related comorbidities
  • micronutrient deficiencies
  • postoperative care
  • lifestyle interventions
  • metabolic health

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (4 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review, Other

14 pages, 682 KB  
Article
The Impact of a Fat-Dominant Preload Before a Carbohydrate-Rich Meal on Glucose Homeostasis in Patients Without Diabetes After Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Proof-of-Concept, Randomised, Open-Label, Crossover Study
by Gráinne Whelehan, Louisa Y. Herring, Aikaterina Tziannou, Joseph Henson, Alice E. Thackray, David Bowrey, Jenny Abraham, Vinod Menon, Iskandar Idris, Helen Waller, David J. Stensel, David R. Webb, Thomas Yates, Melanie J. Davies and Dimitris Papamargaritis
Nutrients 2026, 18(3), 469; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18030469 - 31 Jan 2026
Viewed by 660
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) improves glycaemic control; however, it also markedly accelerates gastric emptying, which can lead to exaggerated postprandial glucose and insulin excursions and, in some cases, postprandial hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia. In non-surgical populations, fat preloads can reduce postprandial glycaemia by slowing gastric [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) improves glycaemic control; however, it also markedly accelerates gastric emptying, which can lead to exaggerated postprandial glucose and insulin excursions and, in some cases, postprandial hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia. In non-surgical populations, fat preloads can reduce postprandial glycaemia by slowing gastric emptying, but their effects after SG are unclear. Methods: Ten adults >1-year post-SG completed a randomised, open-label, crossover study involving two mixed-meal tolerance tests (MMTTs), preceded (−30 min) by either a moderate, fat-dominant preload (28 g Brazil nuts) or 100 mL water (control). Blood samples were collected over three hours to assess plasma glucose, insulin, c-peptide, and total glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). Hypoglycaemia and dumping symptoms were assessed using validated questionnaires. Nadir plasma glucose concentration was the primary outcome. Results: Nadir plasma glucose was identical between conditions (both 3.8 mmol/L; 95% CI: −0.4, 0.3, p = 0.849), and neither peak glucose nor overall postprandial glucose exposure (incremental area under the curve iAUC0–180 min) differed between the preload and water conditions. Insulin and c-peptide concentrations immediately before the MMTT were higher after the fat-dominant preload (both p < 0.001). Overall insulin and c-peptide responses during the MMTT (iAUC0–180 min) remained comparable between conditions (95% CI −225, 2665; p = 0.442 and −67,787, 70,263; 0.968), but peak values for both hormones were higher after the preload (95% CI 2.9, 79.1, p = 0.038 and 17.3, 2402.7, p = 0.040, respectively). Total GLP-1 was also elevated prior to the MMTT (95% CI 1.6, 22.8, p = 0.028), while its early and overall postprandial responses did not differ (both p > 0.05). Ratings of hypoglycaemia and dumping symptoms were similar for both study arms. Discussion: A moderate, fat-dominant preload consumed before a mixed meal did not alter nadir or overall postprandial glucose in adults without diabetes after SG. However, the preload was associated with higher peak insulin secretion, a finding that should be interpreted with caution, as the study was not powered for secondary outcomes. Given the unique gastrointestinal physiology after SG, further research is needed to determine how different nutrient compositions or timing approaches influence postprandial glucose homeostasis in this population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diet and Nutrition in Bariatric Interventions)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

25 pages, 712 KB  
Review
Alcohol and Substance Use After Bariatric Surgery: Nutritional Risks and Clinical Implications in Long-Term Postoperative Care
by Martín Campuzano-Donoso, Claudia Reytor-González, Gerardo Sarno, Martha Montalvan, Luigi Barrea, Giovanna Muscogiuri, Ludovica Verde, Giuseppe Annunziata and Daniel Simancas-Racines
Nutrients 2026, 18(6), 932; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18060932 - 16 Mar 2026
Viewed by 287
Abstract
Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) has evolved into a highly effective neurohormonal intervention for severe obesity; however, it introduces unique long-term vulnerabilities, particularly regarding alcohol (AUD) and substance use disorders (SUD). This review synthesizes the epidemiological, pharmacokinetic, and neurobiological drivers of postoperative substance [...] Read more.
Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) has evolved into a highly effective neurohormonal intervention for severe obesity; however, it introduces unique long-term vulnerabilities, particularly regarding alcohol (AUD) and substance use disorders (SUD). This review synthesizes the epidemiological, pharmacokinetic, and neurobiological drivers of postoperative substance misuse. Procedures like Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) radically alter ethanol metabolism, eliminating first-pass metabolism and accelerating gastric emptying, while simultaneously recalibrating reward pathways, creating a “reward gap” that facilitates addiction transfer. These physiological shifts exacerbate critical micronutrient deficiencies (thiamine, B12, iron), increase the risk of post-bariatric hypoglycemia, and correlate with higher rates of liver cirrhosis and suicide. Furthermore, substance use is a primary driver of suboptimal weight loss trajectories and weight regain. Mitigation requires a lifelong, multidisciplinary framework involving preoperative risk stratification, validated screening (e.g., AUDIT-C), and targeted nutritional supplementation to safeguard the long-term metabolic and psychological benefits of MBS. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diet and Nutrition in Bariatric Interventions)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 576 KB  
Review
Single vs. Dual Agonist Pharmacotherapy for Managing Insufficient Weight Loss and Weight Regain Following Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: A Comparative Review
by Claudia Reytor-González, Martín Campuzano-Donoso, Gerardo Sarno, Martha Montalvan, Raquel Horowitz, Gianluca Rossetti, Vincenzo Pilone, Luigi Barrea, Giovanna Muscogiuri, Luigi Schiavo and Daniel Simancas-Racines
Nutrients 2026, 18(4), 553; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18040553 - 7 Feb 2026
Viewed by 514
Abstract
Weight management after metabolic and bariatric surgery remains a persistent clinical challenge, particularly when patients experience insufficient weight loss or progressive weight regain following the postoperative nadir. In recent years, pharmacological therapies targeting gut-derived hormones have reshaped the therapeutic approach, offering nonsurgical strategies [...] Read more.
Weight management after metabolic and bariatric surgery remains a persistent clinical challenge, particularly when patients experience insufficient weight loss or progressive weight regain following the postoperative nadir. In recent years, pharmacological therapies targeting gut-derived hormones have reshaped the therapeutic approach, offering nonsurgical strategies that directly influence appetite regulation, satiety, and energy balance. Single agonists acting on the glucagon-like peptide one receptor have demonstrated meaningful reductions in body weight among postoperative patients, while dual agonists that target both the glucagon-like peptide one receptor and the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor have shown even greater weight reduction in early studies, suggesting enhanced therapeutic potential. These benefits, however, must be interpreted within the unique anatomical, nutritional, and behavioral context of individuals who have undergone metabolic and bariatric procedures, as they are inherently at higher risk for micronutrient deficiencies, gastrointestinal intolerance, and maladaptive eating patterns. Successful treatment requires a balanced integration of pharmacotherapy, individualized nutritional guidance, psychological support, and a patient-centered model of long-term care. Although emerging evidence is promising, dedicated clinical trials are still needed to directly compare the efficacy, safety, and sustainability of single versus dual agonist therapies in postoperative populations. Furthermore, culturally sensitive dietary strategies and shared decision-making processes are essential to enhance adherence, optimize long-term outcomes, and ensure equitable access to treatment. Ultimately, these therapies represent a significant advance in addressing postoperative weight challenges, but their full potential will rely on comprehensive, multidisciplinary frameworks that support both biological and behavioral aspects of chronic weight management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diet and Nutrition in Bariatric Interventions)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

17 pages, 936 KB  
Systematic Review
Effectiveness of Whey Protein Supplementation in Weight Loss Interventions for Patients with Obesity: A Systematic Review
by Juan José López-Gómez, Beatriz Ramos-Bachiller, Daniel Rico-Bargues and Daniel A. De Luis-Román
Nutrients 2026, 18(4), 695; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18040695 - 21 Feb 2026
Viewed by 2108
Abstract
Background: Obesity is traditionally defined by excess fat mass; however, the preservation of fat-free mass (FFM), particularly skeletal muscle, has gained increasing relevance due to its metabolic, endocrine, and functional roles. Weight loss interventions, including hypocaloric diets, pharmacological treatments, and bariatric surgery, [...] Read more.
Background: Obesity is traditionally defined by excess fat mass; however, the preservation of fat-free mass (FFM), particularly skeletal muscle, has gained increasing relevance due to its metabolic, endocrine, and functional roles. Weight loss interventions, including hypocaloric diets, pharmacological treatments, and bariatric surgery, are frequently associated with unintended loss of skeletal mass, increasing the risk of sarcopenic obesity and related complications. Objective: This study aimed to systematically evaluate the effectiveness of whey protein supplementation in preserving fat-free mass and muscle-related outcomes in adults with obesity undergoing weight loss interventions. Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Randomized controlled trials published in English were identified through searches of PubMed/MEDLINE, CENTRAL, Embase, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov, and WHO ICTRP, searched up to September 2025. Eligible studies included adults (>18 years) with obesity receiving whey protein supplementation as part of a hypocaloric diet, compared with placebo or standard interventions. Primary outcomes were changes in fat-free mass assessed by validated methods (DXA, BIA, MRI), while secondary outcomes included body weight, fat mass, metabolic parameters, adherence, and safety. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2.0 tool, and certainty of evidence was evaluated with GRADE. The abstract was registered in PROSPERO with code CRD420251069996. There was no funding and no conflicts of interest. Results: Fourteen randomized controlled trials were included. Whey protein supplementation generally supported the maintenance or modest improvement of fat-free mass, particularly when combined with resistance exercise or anabolic-enriched formulations such as leucine or vitamin D. Several trials, however, reported neutral effects, especially in the absence of structured physical activity. Overall, effect estimates ranged from small gains to null or uncertain differences, and the certainty of evidence was frequently downgraded due to limited sample sizes, wide confidence intervals, heterogeneity across interventions and assessment methods, short follow-up periods, and methodological limitations including open-label designs and inconsistent adherence monitoring. Conclusions: Whey protein supplementation may support fat-free mass preservation during weight loss in adults with obesity, particularly as part of a multimodal intervention. Further high-quality trials are needed to define optimal dosing strategies and target populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diet and Nutrition in Bariatric Interventions)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-4
Back to TopTop