Changes in Gut Hormones After Bariatric Surgery

Conclusion

The ongoing studies based on gut hormone profiles following bariatric surgeries are shedding more light on the complex role of these hormones in eating behaviour and weight loss. Changes in appetite are evident within days following gastric bypass surgery. And a recent study has further demonstrated that postprandial PYY and GLP-1 profiles start rising as early as 2 days following the operation.^[47] Interestingly, in patients with poor weight loss after gastric bypass procedures, the postprandial PYY and GLP-1 responses are attenuated compared to patients with good postoperative weight loss. Whereas inhibiting the satiety gut hormone responses with octreotide after RYGB, results in return of appetite and increase in food intake.^[47] In short it seems that bariatric surgery provides a secretary stimulus to the distal endocrine L-cells, resulting in an increase in the gut hormones such as PYY and the enteroglucagon family of peptides. Future studies are needed to fully understand the complex neuroendocrine regulation of appetite and energy homeostasis. Nevertheless from evidence so far it is likely that gut hormones play a role in the decreased hunger and increased satiety experienced by those who undergo bariatric surgery. This alteration in appetite regulation following bariatric surgery may explain both the significant and sustained weight loss.

CLICK HERE for subscription information about this journal.

Clin Endocrinol. 2008;69(2):173-179. © 2008  Blackwell Publishing

Cite this: Changes in Gut Hormones After Bariatric Surgery - Medscape - Aug 01, 2008.