Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, in collaboration with the Association of Metabolic Surgery Dietitians, hosted the “Nutrition in Metabolic Surgery Symposium.”

Opening remarks were delivered by Prof. Dr. Pınar Sökülmez Kaya, Head of OMU’s Department of Nutrition and Dietetics; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nihal Zekiye Erdem, President of the Association of Metabolic Surgery Dietitians; and Prof. Dr. Esra Pancar Yüksel, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences at OMU. In their speeches, the speakers emphasized the growing importance of interdisciplinary approaches in healthcare and the value of such academic events in supporting professional development.

The symposium focused on metabolic and bariatric surgery as an increasingly effective option for treating metabolic diseases. It was underlined that success in these treatments is achieved not only through surgical intervention but also through proper nutritional planning both before and after surgery. The event examined the significance of this holistic approach in detail. In particular, nutrition was highlighted for its crucial role in reducing risks, accelerating recovery, and ensuring long-term weight management in chronic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Throughout the event, experts from academia and clinical practice presented a wide range of topics, including the etiology of obesity, metabolic and bariatric surgical methods, four-phase nutritional planning, and vitamin-mineral supplementation. Additionally, applied sessions such as case studies, nutrition support products, and dietary recipe demonstrations helped participants solidify their knowledge.

Attendees described the symposium as a highly productive gathering where scientific innovations were shared, current guidelines discussed, and valuable exchanges took place among professionals. The event also allowed nutrition and dietetics students to expand their professional vision through insights shared by experienced field practitioners.

The symposium concluded with a commemorative group photo.