Abstract

Background: A person´s perspective of time has been associated with health-related habits. Specifically, future has been associated with changes in lifestyle as well the incorporation of physical exercise. In contrast, current hedonism is associated with sub-optimal weight loss in bariatric patients. Aim: To evaluate the relationship between seven variables of a time perspective and percentage of total weight loss; maintenance or weight regain among bariatric patients. Material and Methods: A sample of 97 bariatric patients answered the Inventory of Temporary Orientation and lifestyle questionnaires. Results: A greater percentage of total weight loss was significantly associated with future (r= 0.221; p<0.05) and deviations from negative time profile (r= 0.324; p<0.05). Insufficient weight loss was associated with a fatalistic present (t=-2.16, p= 0.033) and deviations from a balanced time perspective (t=-2.81; p= 0.006). Regaining weight was significantly associated to deviations from a balanced time perspective (t=-2.09; p=0.045) and consumption of sweets (X2= 13.42; p= 0.009). Conclusions: Deviations from a balanced time perspective and consumption of sweets are associated with sub-optimal weight loss and regaining weight.