Research

Mixed

A structured very-low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD) administered for 17-19 weeks effectively reverses insufficient weight loss and weight regain in post-bariatric surgery patients, achieving significant fat mass reduction while preserving muscular strength and metabolic health.

If you have had bariatric surgery but haven't lost enough weight or have regained it, a structured Very-Low-Calorie Ketogenic Diet (VLCKD) is a viable, safe, and effective option. The protocol involves a strict 6-week active phase (approx. 600 kcal, very low carb, high protein), followed by a gradual re-introduction of foods over 13 more weeks. Crucially, you must continue your prescribed post-surgical vitamin and mineral supplements to avoid deficiencies. This approach can help you lose significant fat while keeping your muscle strength, without harming your liver or kidneys, provided you are not diabetic or have other severe comorbidities.

ModerateSupportsMEDIUM confidence
A significant weight loss (mean 14.1 ± 4.8%), mostly due to fat mass, was observed during VLCKD with the preservation of muscular strength... The nutritional regimen was well tolerated, and no significant side effects were detected.
Federica Vinciguerra et al. · Journal of Endocrinological Investigation · 2023

Why this rating

Prospective observational study with a small sample size (n=22) and short follow-up, lacking a control group.

Source

Efficacy, feasibility and tolerability of ketogenic diet for the treatment of poor response to bariatric surgery

Federica Vinciguerra et al. · Journal of Endocrinological Investigation · 2023

DOI 10.1007/s40618-023-02034-2

cohort · n=22Cited 13×
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DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10

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