The Link Between Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome

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Vásquez LA, Pazos F, Berrazueta JR, et al.: Effects of changes in body weight and insulin resistance on inflammation and endothelial function in morbid obesity after bariatric surgery. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 90:316–322, 2005.

 

What is the problem and what is known about it so far? 

People who are seriously obese are more likely to have insulin resistance (the body’s inability to use insulin well) and a condition called metabolic syndrome, which includes a group of signs such as high blood pressure, high fats in the blood, and a large waist.

Why did the researchers do this particular study?

Researchers wanted to know if patients who had weight loss surgery improved their insulin resistance and lowered the chance of getting metabolic syndrome.

Who was studied?

The study included 26 seriously obese people who were scheduled for gastric bypass surgery (weight loss surgery). Another group of 26 people who were about the same age but of normal weight was also studied for comparison.

How was the study done? 

The seriously obese people were studied before surgery and 4 months after surgery. The researchers measured weight, height, waist and hip sizes, insulin resistance, blood pressure, and cholesterol (fat in the blood). Researchers also looked at tests that indicate inflammation, which is involved metabolic syndrome.

What did the researchers find?

The patients who had undergone weight loss surgery had lower insulin resistance. Their risk for metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure, and high amount of fats in the blood also decreased.

What are the limitations of the study?

The research only included 52 people, which is a small sample. A larger sample might lead to different results. Also, patients were followed for only 4 months. A longer follow-up period might produce different results.

What are the implications of the study? 

Weight loss surgery seems to improve insulin resistance and lower the chance of metabolic syndrome.