Dietary Habits, Obesity, and Bariatric Surgery: A Review of Impact and Interventions

Abstract

Eating behavior encompasses the psychological, physiological, and environmental factors influencing food intake. Dysregulation in eating behavior, such as emotional eating, binge eating, or loss of satiety signals, contributes to excessive caloric intake and weight gain. These behaviors are often linked to hormonal imbalances, stress, or genetic predisposition. Obesity is a chronic, multifactorial disease characterized by excessive body fat accumulation, with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m² often used for diagnosis. It is associated with significant morbidity, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obstructive sleep apnea. Pathophysiological mechanisms underlying obesity include insulin resistance, leptin dysregulation, and altered gut microbiota, which perpetuate metabolic derangements. Lifestyle interventions remain first-line treatment, but sustained weight loss is challenging for many patients. Bariatric surgery is a therapeutic option for individuals with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m² or ≥35 kg/m² with comorbidities) who have failed conservative management. Procedures such as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy alter gastrointestinal anatomy, promoting weight loss through restriction, malabsorption, and hormonal modulation (e.g., increased GLP-1 secretion). Bariatric surgery improves obesity-related comorbidities and enhances quality of life. However, it requires lifelong medical follow-up to address potential nutritional deficiencies and ensure sustainable outcomes.

Keywords: bariatric surgery; eating behavior; eating issues; obesity; weight loss.

Figure 1

Flow diagram showing the selection process.