Structured Exercises Post-Sleeve Gastrectomy Positively Impacts Long-Term Glucose Profile

Weight regain post-surgery is associated with a heightened risk of obesity-related comorbidity recurrence, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A recent study investigated the impact of postoperative exercise on glucose regulation and excess body weight loss percentage (%EBWL) in patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).

This was a prospective cohort study conducted on females with non-insulin-dependent T2DM who underwent LSG between 2014 and 2015. Participants were assessed at 1 and 4 years postoperatively. Data collection included glucose levels, body mass index (BMI), and exercise habits. Adequate physical activity was defined as more than 150 minutes of exercise per week. Participants were classified into – the low-activity (control group) and the adequate-activity (exposure group). The primary outcomes were %EBWL and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c).

The study included 246 female participants (mean age: 46.93 ± 8.07 years). The findings disclosed a significant correlation – between exercise intensity, %EBWL, fasting blood glucose, and HbA1c. The exposure group demonstrated superior outcomes, with higher %EBWL, more significant HbA1c reductions, and a more pronounced BMI reduction. Based on the results, a predictive formula was developed for estimating %EBWL at 48 months based on exercise levels (R² = 0.86).

The results highlighted the crucial role of postoperative exercise in promoting sustained weight loss and modest glycemic improvements. Hence, encouraging structured physical activity after LSG can enhance long-term surgical outcomes.

Source: Norooz MT, Safavi-Naini SAA, Jamshidi P, et al. Health Sci Rep. 2025;8(2):e70431. 2025;8(2):e70431