The protein digestion and related micronutrient absorption profile in older patients undergoing bariatric surgery.

Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment modality for obesity, resulting in substantial and sustained weight loss and improvements in morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. Unsurprisingly the number of patients who undergo bariatric surgery is steadily increasing. These procedures are not without risk and nutritional sequelae include protein malnutrition, iron-deficiency anaemia and other micronutrient deficiencies. These side-effects are often caused by or exacerbated by the malabsorption induced by these procedures themselves. This can be particularly concerning in older patients who are prone to sarcopenia, frailty, and poor bone health. Despite bariatric surgery becoming more prevalent in this population group, little is known regarding gastrointestinal physiology and absorption kinetics in older adults who have undergone bariatric surgery. To address this, this study aims to assess protein and related micronutrient absorption in bariatric patients aged 65 years and older. The study will also explore the relationship between nutrient absorption kinetics, muscle strength and low-grade inflammation. A better understanding of protein and micronutrients absorption will lead to better management of musculoskeletal strength in older people. The research is one of eleven studies that form the AGePOP Innovative Training Network (ITN). This multisectoral project will collect the first-ever dataset of physiological characteristics of the GI tract of older people, paving the way for drug development and optimising nutrient absorption for the advanced age population. Data from this particular study will contribute to physiological-based pharmacokinetic modelling for older adults and pathophysiological conditions.