What Types of Disordered Eating Patterns Can Occur After Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery is a life-changing procedure that can help individuals struggling with obesity achieve long-term weight loss and improve their overall health. However, some individuals may develop disordered eating patterns after bariatric surgery, which can negatively impact their physical and mental health. Here are some types of disordered eating patterns that can occur after bariatric surgery.

  1. Restrictive Eating: Restrictive eating patterns may occur after bariatric surgery due to physical changes in the stomach, such as a smaller capacity for food. Some individuals may struggle with limiting their food intake to an unhealthy extent, leading to inadequate nutrition and potential complications.

  2. Binge Eating: Binge eating is characterized by consuming large amounts of food in a short amount of time, often accompanied by feelings of guilt and shame. Binge eating can occur after bariatric surgery due to changes in appetite or emotions surrounding food.

  3. Obsessive Calorie Counting: Some individuals may become overly focused on counting calories after bariatric surgery, leading to a preoccupation with food and potentially inadequate nutrition. This can be harmful to physical and mental health, leading to anxiety and distress around food.

  4. Food Aversion or Fear: After bariatric surgery, some individuals may develop an aversion to certain foods or fear of eating due to concerns about weight regain or physical discomfort. This can lead to inadequate nutrition and potential complications.

  5. Body Image Disturbances: Bariatric surgery can significantly impact an individual's body shape and size, leading to body image disturbances and negative self-talk. This can contribute to disordered eating patterns, such as restrictive eating or overeating to cope with negative emotions.

In summary, disordered eating patterns can occur after bariatric surgery due to a variety of physical and emotional factors. Restrictive eating, binge eating, obsessive calorie counting, food aversion or fear, and body image disturbances are all types of disordered eating patterns that may occur after bariatric surgery. If you're experiencing disordered eating patterns after bariatric surgery, consider seeking support from a mental health professional or eating disorder specialist to help manage emotional or psychological barriers to recovery.