Association of Profile of Physical Activity with Body Self-Image in Obese Individuals Post-Bariatric Surgery

Background: Obesity is a chronic disease characterized by a reduction in life expectancy. Bariatric surgery has been an alternative to conventional treatments, but lifestyle changes such as increased physical activity are crucial for achieving body image and health outcomes. Objective: Test the hypothesis that physical activity is associated with satisfaction with body image in obese individuals undergoing bariatric surgery. Methods: Cross-sectional study conducted in Salvador, BA, Brazil. All participants at 3 and 6 months postoperatively answered the Stunkard Image Rating Scales as the main outcome, in addition to the International Physical Activity Questionnaire to assess the physical activity profile. Results: Physically active individuals were 80% more likely to report body satisfaction when compared with physically inactive individuals. According to multivariate analysis, the adjusted physical activity for females and advanced age increased by 83% the chance of reporting satisfaction with body image and, when adjusted for marital status, body mass index, and surgery time, the strength of association increased to 89% the chance to refer body satisfaction when compared with physically inactive people. Conclusion: Physical activity was associated with better body image. These results indicate opportunities to improve outcomes in patients after bariatric surgery through counseling and treatment intervention.