Study: Bariatric Surgery May Have Long-Term Benefits on Memory

Past research has found people with obesity are at a higher risk for cognitive function impairments, including memory loss. Because of this, a team of researchers in the United States decided to investigate whether bariatric surgery can improve cognitive function in people with obesity. Below, Dr. V. Kuzinkovas discusses the study’s findings in detail.

The Study

For the study, a total of 86 people with obesity were tested on their cognitive abilities. Of those participants, 63 had undergone bariatric surgery and 23 people did not. All participants completed a series of tests three times: before surgery, 12 weeks and 24 months after surgery. The tests examined several cognitive functions, including attention, strategizing, organizing, memory and language.

As predicted, the participants who had undergone bariatric surgery showed improved cognitive function, specifically memory, both 12 weeks and 24 months after surgery. Participants who did not undergo surgery did not show any changes in cognitive function. Because bariatric surgery patients showed improved memory 24 months after surgery, researchers believe surgery has long-term effects in cognitive function and can possibly lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

While it’s unclear why bariatric surgery patients showed improved cognitive function, researchers believe changes in blood pressure may be at least part of the explanation. Obesity increases the risk of high blood pressure, which in turn increases the risk of cognitive impairment. Researchers hope further studies can look at even longer follow-up periods to see if bariatric surgery patients still show improved cognitive function five or 10 years after surgery.

Start Your Weight Loss Journey with Advanced Surgicare

Dr. V. Kuzinkovas of Advanced Surgicare is a leading bariatric surgeon who has helped hundreds of patients achieve their weight loss goals and improve their overall health. To learn more about the different bariatric surgery procedures we perform, schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Kuzinkovas by calling 1 300 551 533.