Changes in Food Preferences Before and After Intragastric Balloon Placement

Area of Science:

• Bariatric Surgery and Obesity Management
• Nutritional Science
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Bariatric surgery's weight loss mechanisms are often studied via food preference (FP) questionnaires.
• Intragastric balloons offer a less invasive option for obesity management.
• No prior studies have assessed FP changes following intragastric balloon treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze changes in food preferences (FP) in individuals undergoing intragastric balloon treatment.
• To compare the effects of intragastric balloons on FP with those of bariatric surgery.

Main Methods:

• 320 participants rated consumption frequency of 63 food items before and after balloon insertion.
• Food categories included protein, carbohydrates, fruits/vegetables, and sweets/fats.
• Data collected monthly during the 6-month treatment and post-removal.

Main Results:

• A significant reduction in consumption of meat, high-fat, and high-carbohydrate/sugary products was observed.
• Participants showed an increased intake of raw vegetables and fruits.
• These dietary shifts occurred across all analyzed individuals.

Conclusions:

• Intragastric balloons appear to induce weight loss through mechanisms similar to bariatric surgery, primarily via FP alterations.
• Changes in FP are influenced by gastric reconfiguration and patient education from dieticians.
• Postprandial discomfort experienced by patients also contributes to self-directed dietary changes.