Bariatric Surgery vs. Low-energy Diet and Cardiometabolic Factors: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Bariatric surgery and low-energy diets (LED) are established interventions for weight loss and cardiometabolic risk management in individuals with obesity. This systematic review and meta-analysis compares their efficacy in improving cardiometabolic outcomes.

We performed a systematic search in international databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science. Cardiometabolic outcomes assessed included cardiovascular disease risk scores, body composition, lipid profiles, glycemic control, and blood pressure.

Bariatric surgery showed superior efficacy to LEDs in reducing cardiovascular risk scores (MD - 1.94; 95% CI - 3.48 to - 0.40; p = 0.013) and waist circumference (MD - 0.59 cm; 95% CI - 1.15 to - 0.03; p = 0.040). It significantly improved lipid profiles, with reductions in total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides, and increased HDL (all p < 0.05). Glycemic control also improved, with lower fasting glucose, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR (all p < 0.05). Small reductions in blood pressure were noted (p < 0.05). No publication bias was detected, but heterogeneity was significant for triglycerides (p < 0.01).

Bariatric surgery offers superior and sustained improvements in cardiometabolic health compared to LED, particularly in individuals with higher baseline BMI. These findings support its role as a more effective intervention for long-term risk reduction in individuals with obesity.