Evaluation of the relationship between gastrointestinal symptoms, snacking habits and nutritional intake of individuals undergoing bariatric surgery and gastric balloon procedure

This study examines the relationship between gastrointestinal symptoms, grazing behaviors and nutrient intake in individuals who underwent bariatric surgery or intragastric balloon procedures. The study was conducted between February and May 2025 with a total of 67 individuals who applied to a private clinic in Istanbul, including 25 who underwent bariatric surgery and 42 who received an intragastric balloon procedure. Data were collected using the "Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS)," the "Grazing Behavior Scale (GBS)," and the "24-Hour Dietary Recall." Participants' daily energy and nutrient intakes were evaluated in line with the recommendations of the 2022 Turkey Nutrition Guideline (TÜBER). According to the findings, a reduction in grazing behavior was observed in both groups after the intervention; however, this decrease was found to be significantly more pronounced in the bariatric surgery group compared to the intragastric balloon group. When gastrointestinal symptoms were evaluated, both methods were found to have a similar effect in reducing symptoms. Analysis of dietary intake data revealed a significant decrease in energy, fat, and carbohydrate consumption after the procedure, while the percentage of protein intake increased. When micronutrients were evaluated, a more pronounced tendency toward deficiency in the intake of vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin B6, magnesium, iron, zinc and copper was observed in the bariatric surgery group. Moreover, over time, a significant relationship was observed between grazing behaviors and gastrointestinal symptoms. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that surgical and endoscopic methods used in obesity treatment not only contribute to weight loss but also have important effects on individuals' eating behaviors and digestive health.