(P24-082-23) Assessing the Acceptability of a 6-Week Nutrition and Support Post-Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Pilot Study

Objectives: To assess the feasibility and acceptability of a 6-week support and nutrition-based post-metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) pilot program based on weight loss maintenance and social support.

Methods: A 6-week, in-person, pilot program was developed to promote nutrition and support of post-MBS. Program curriculum included topics regarding MBS nutrition, physical activity, and general support. Recruitment for the program was conducted via email list-serv of a local MBS clinic. Consenting participants were administered a baseline and post-program survey that captured descriptive characteristics. A paired sample t-test was used to determine weight change from before to after the intervention. Following the program, participants were asked to answer an 11-question survey regarding program success and acceptability. Questions of the study were measured on a 6-point Likert scale (1=strongly disagree, 6= strongly agree) to avoid neutral responses. Example program evaluation questions included, “The in-person program provided a sense of social support” and “I am satisfied with the program approach used to provide nutrition and support for post-bariatric surgery.” Measures of central tendency were used to examine program feasibility and acceptability among the intervention participants.

Results: On average, the participants in the intervention (n=8) lost 3 pounds (-3.75 ± 6.04). Percent excess weight loss (%EWL) increased from approximately 62% before the intervention to approximately 64% after intervention. Of program completers, 100% of the participants strongly agreed that the intervention provided social support, 85% strongly agreed they were satisfied with the programs approach to provide nutrition education and support and 86% strongly agreed that the program was helpful for accountability after bariatric surgery.

Conclusions: Weight change, EWL, and the responses collected from the post-program acceptability survey showed favorable outcomes demonstrating success and feasibility of a 6-week post-MBS intervention for weight maintenance and support. Study results are beneficial in providing insight for creating future programs for post-MBS patients to enhance long-term outcomes and success of the surgery.

Funding Sources: University of Kentucky, Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition Start-up Funds