Jabeen
Bariatric Dietician & Content Writer
Cognitive Benefits of Bariatric Surgery (Long-Term) Benefits
Previously known only for its ability to help obese patients lose weight, Bariatric Surgery is now getting attention for possible cognitive benefits. Beyond weight loss, this surgical procedure has been associated with improvements in memory, executive function, and overall mental wellness, among other elements of cognitive function.
What is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery, often referred to as weight loss surgery, is a surgical procedure designed to help individuals struggling with obesity achieve significant and sustainable weight loss. Unlike traditional diet and exercise programs, which may not always produce lasting results for those with severe obesity, bariatric surgery offers a more effective solution by making changes to the digestive system.
Cognitive Benefits
Memory Enhancement: Multiple studies have shown that memory performance improves after bariatric surgery. Several factors, such as reduced inflammation, improved insulin sensitivity and changes to gut hormone levels are responsible for this. Improved blood flow to the brain, facilitated by weight loss and metabolic changes, may also contribute to better memory consolidation (transforms short-term memories into long-term) and retrieval (accessing the stored information after some time).
Executive Function: The term executive function describes a group of mental skills that people use to successfully organize, plan, and carry out tasks. Improvements in executive function, including decision-making, cognitive flexibility, and problem-solving skills, have been linked to bariatric surgery. Surgery-induced metabolic changes include an improvement of insulin sensitivity and glucose utilization to normal, contributing to improved brain function.
Mood Regulation: Psychological conditions like sadness and anxiety are frequently associated with obesity and can have a major impact on cognitive function. In many cases bariatric surgery not only helps patients lose weight but also reduces their anxiety and depressive symptoms. Improvements in overall mental health and cognitive function after surgery may be attributed to less anxiety and increased emotional stability.
Neuroplasticity: Weight loss during bariatric surgery may result in changes to the brain’s neuronal structure, such as the creation of new connections and remodeling of preexisting ones. These neuroadaptive processes help improve cognitive function and contribute to long-term cognitive benefits beyond the initial weight loss phase. Neuroplasticity is further enhanced by consistent exercise and dietary modifications that are made after surgery, which improves cognitive flexibility and tolerance.
Quality of Life: Beyond the cognitive effects, bariatric surgery has a major impact on people’s general quality of life. Better movement, less physical discomfort, and higher self-esteem comes by weight loss can all contribute to enhanced psychological and mental health. Successful weight control also contributes to a sense of empowerment and success that strengthens self-confidence.
Beyond just helping patients lose weight, bariatric surgery also improves emotional management, memory, executive function, and neuroplasticity. Surgery-induced changes of hormones and metabolism are crucial for improving brain function. In addition, for patients undergoing bariatric surgery to maintain their cognitive improvements and promote long-term brain health, lifestyle changes including consistent exercise and a balanced diet are crucial.
