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. 2021 Jan;31(1):350-356.
doi: 10.1007/s11695-020-05070-6. Epub 2020 Nov 2.

Effectiveness of a Low-Calorie Diet for Liver Volume Reduction Prior to Bariatric Surgery: a Systematic Review

Marleen M Romeijn  1 , Aniek M Kolen  2   3 , Daniëlle D B Holthuijsen  2   3 , Loes Janssen  2 , Goof Schep  4 , Wouter K G Leclercq  2 , François M H van Dielen  2
Affiliations

Effectiveness of a Low-Calorie Diet for Liver Volume Reduction Prior to Bariatric Surgery: a Systematic Review

Marleen M Romeijn et al. Obes Surg. 2021 Jan.

Abstract

An energy-restricted diet is often prescribed before bariatric surgery to reduce weight and liver volume. While very-low-calorie diets (VLCDs, 450-800 kcal per day) have shown to be effective, the effectiveness of low-calorie diets (LCDs, 800-1500 kcal per day) is less obvious. The objective of this systematic review was to elucidate the effectiveness of LCD on liver volume reduction in patients awaiting bariatric surgery. Eight studies (n = 251) were included describing nine different diets (800-1200 kcal, 2-8 weeks). An LCD was effective in liver volume reduction (12-27%) and weight loss (4-17%), particularly during the first weeks. The LCD showed an acceptable patients' compliance. Based on these findings, an LCD (800-1200 kcal), instead of a VLCD, for 2 to 4 weeks should be preferred.

Keywords: Bariatric surgery; Liver volume; Low-calorie diet; Preoperative diet.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

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